By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach
NAPLES, Italy - Petty Officer 2nd Class Alyssa Ware, a native of Jacksonville, Florida, was named Junior Sailor of the Quarter serving with Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station (NCTS) Naples, Italy.
Junior Sailor of the Quarter award is one of several quarterly categories used to recognize high-performing sailors who stand out from others in similar pay grades.
Ware is a construction electrician responsible for producing the electric power needed to build and operate airfields, roads, barracks, hospitals and other buildings needed on a base or forward operating base.
"We build, maintain and operate power production facilities and electrical distribution systems for Naval installations," said Ware. "We are one of seven rates in the "Seabees," an engineering fighting force. Our slogan is "We build, We Fight."
NCTS Naples provides secure, reliable and timely voice, video and data services to several U.S. Navy commands including U.S. Sixth Fleet, U.S. Naval Forces Europe, joint, allied and coalition customers. It's comprised of approximately 20 officers, 325 enlisted personnel and 40 civilians.
"At my current command I'm the Work Center Supervisor for a base communications office," said Ware. "I like that I'm able to work on something new in my career. I like the feeling that comes with helping fix a communications issue that serves many commands throughout our area of responsibility."
Ware, a 2011 Edward H. White High School graduate, joined the Navy seven years ago to better herself and have a sense of purpose.
"I wanted to make sure that whatever I did in my lifetime would make a big impact," said Ware.
According to Ware, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Jacksonville.
"Growing up we were of little means and we had a large family, but my parents worked hard," said Ware. "I was taught to be independent and to be the best I can be at whatever I do. I was also taught to take care of others."
Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community and career, Ware is most proud of the opportunities to work on projects that have helped Naval bases and to participate in humanitarian or disaster relief.
"It's the little things that has gotten me to this point in my career, like making petty officer second class and winning Sailor of the Quarter, but most of all making my family proud," said Ware.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Ware, 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 means being professional and having pride and everything you do," added Ware. "I learned that teamwork is key, to always have each other's back and take care of your people and each other's families."
U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. Sixth Fleet continue their missions of conducting maritime operations in Europe and Africa. Forces stand ready throughout the two theaters, and command leadership remains committed to taking every measure possible to protect the health of forces, as well as local residents. Warships, submarines, and aircraft continue their patrols to deter and defend against threats to U.S., NATO and partner nations.
