JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Petty Officer 3rd Class Eric Singleton, a native of Jacksonville, Florida, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Patrol Squadron (VP) 26.
 |
| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrew Hanchar |
Singleton graduated from Baldwin High School in 2021.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Jacksonville.
“I learned the importance of respect, showing up on time and trying to be a good person every day,” Singleton said. “Coming in with a good attitude, a smile on my face and positive vibes makes the job more enjoyable.”
Singleton joined the Navy four years ago. Today, Singleton serves as an aviation ordinanceman.
“My dad retired from the navy and I saw firsthand the life I could have in and out of the service,” Singleton said. “He worked as an aviation machinist's mate, so it is really interesting that I happen to work in a job specialty so close to his.”
Members of VP-26 fly and maintain the U.S. Navy’s P-8A Poseidon multi-mission maritime aircraft. Designed to secure the U.S. Navy’s future in long-range maritime patrol capability, the P-8A has transformed how the Navy’s maritime patrol and reconnaissance force will train, operate and deploy, according to Navy officials. P-8A aircraft deploy around the globe to monitor the world’s oceans wherever they are needed.
“The hard work and dedication of our sailors have been the driving force behind our squadron’s success, enabling us to remain mission-effective and ready at all times,” said VP-26 commanding officer, Cmdr. Taylor Barros. “Their relentless commitment has shaped a forward-leaning team that consistently meets challenges head-on and excels in every operational environment.”
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.
Singleton has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is being considered for the Sailor of Quarter award,” Singleton said. “My leadership saw something in me that I didn't quite see in myself yet, and it made me feel proud.”
Singleton serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Serving in the Navy means being a part of something bigger than myself,” Singleton said.
Singleton is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'd like to thank my mom, dad, brothers and sisters,” Singleton said. “They continually encouraged me, and I'm glad to be somebody they can look up to.”