MILLINGTON, Tenn. - Chief Warrant Officer 2 NaPorsha Barnett, a native of Gould, Arkansas, graduated from the U.S. Navy’s Limited Duty Officer/Warrant Officer/Chief Warrant Officer (LDO/WO/CWO) Academy on Feb. 28.
Barnett, a graduate of Dumas Senior High School, joined the Navy 15 years ago.
“I joined the Navy so that I could see the world, pay for my education and make my family proud,” Barnett said.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Gould.
“One of the lessons I learned from my hometown growing up was to take pride in your work,” Barnett said. “We always put our best foot forward and worked hard. As a town, we always came together.”
The LDO/WO/CWO Academy is one of four officer accession programs operating at Officer Training Command Newport (OTCN) Newport, Rhode Island. The academy prepares officers to become effective leaders by developing fundamental skills in leadership, written and oral communication, career management and administration.
Before starting at the academy, Barnett served as an enlisted chief petty officer. After graduation, Barnett will serve as an officer aboard USS Farragut, an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer.
“Graduating from the academy means I can continue to inspire those around me,” Barnett said. “I can continue to develop and train the next generation while being that subject matter expert who supports the mission and unrestricted line officers.”
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Barnett has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishments while serving in the Navy have been promoting to chief warrant officer two and becoming a mom,” Barnett added. “In both areas of my life, I work hard and love what I have been blessed with.”
As Barnett and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the U.S. Navy.