Petty Officer 1st Class Demetria Marie Spicer, a native of Stafford, Virginia, is recognized as ‘Sailor in the Spotlight’ while serving aboard USS Fort Worth, homeported in San Diego.
Sailor in the Spotlight highlights the great work that sailors do to support the Navy.
Spicer is an information systems technician where she is responsible for managing her division in ensuring communications via voice and data is supplied throughout the ship.
USS Fort Worth is a littoral combat ship. Littoral combat ships are considered the future of the Navy because of their technologically advanced engineering and versatility to deter multiple threats. The ships are designed to complete surface, mine and anti-submarine warfare missions, as well as prevent similar threats.
Spicer is a 2000 North Stafford High School graduate. According to Spicer, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Stafford.
"I learned stay true to who you are," said Spicer.
Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community and career, Del Rosario is most proud of watching her sailors grow.
"I’ve been in their shoes," said Spicer. "It’s hard to believe that hope exists but it does. Through suffering produces perseverance; perseverance produces character; character produces hope. We are not meant to survive but thrive each day we have on this earth. To leave behind a legacy to inspire others behind you not just in the military but wherever you go."
For Spicer, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Spicer hopes to continue.
"I have had a family member serve in each branch of service," said Spicer. "It’s an honor to follow in
their footsteps. The era is different from when they joined. I just hope I made them proud."
their footsteps. The era is different from when they joined. I just hope I made them proud."
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Spicer, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
"Serving in the Navy through new lenses each day," said Spicer. "It is never a dull day in the Navy. There are always obstacles but how you approach them, determines how you fight it. Thats why we are the finest Navy."