SAN DIEGO. – Petty Officer 3rd Class Donavin Belcher, a native of Toledo, Ohio, joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Belcher serves as a boatswain's mate aboard USS Tripoli.
 |
| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jesse Hawthorne |
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to see the world, I wanted help with paying for college and I wanted benefits for me and my future family,” said Belcher.
Growing up in Toledo, Belcher attended Whitmer High School and graduated in 2017. Today, Belcher uses the same skills and values learned in Toledo to succeed in the military.
“Growing up, I was taught the importance of leadership and dedication,” said Belcher. "As a sailor both of these lessons have helped me lead those who are new to the Navy. I've been able to assist others and drive our mission every day, even when the going gets tough. These lessons help me help others stay motivated to do their job."
These lessons have helped Belcher while serving in the Navy.
USS Tripoli incorporates key components to provide the fleet with a more aviation-centric platform. The design features an enlarged hangar deck, aviation maintenance facilities realignment and expansion, a significant increase in available stowage for parts and support equipment, and increased aviation fuel capacity.
“The sailors aboard this ship have been given an enormous task--get this ship ready,” said Capt. John Kiefaber, USS Tripoli’s executive officer. “They brought this ship to life in the midst of a pandemic and continue to operate it safely and effectively, rising to every occasion. I couldn’t be more proud.”
Serving in the Navy means Belcher is part of a world that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy contributes to national security by protecting allies and trying to maintain peace,” said Belcher.
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
According to Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday, four priorities will focus efforts on sailors, readiness, capabilities, and capacity.
“For 245 years, in both calm and rough waters, our Navy has stood the watch to protect the homeland, preserve freedom of the seas, and defend our way of life,” said Gilday. “The decisions and investments we make this decade will set the maritime balance of power for the rest of this century. We can accept nothing less than success.”
Belcher and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“My greatest naval accomplishment is being able to help my fellow sailors improve themselves,” said Belcher.
As Belcher and other sailors continue to train and perform the missions they are tasked with, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“I take serving in the Navy as a stepping stone to bettering myself,” added Belcher. "It's a way to get where I want to go in life. I've been told by my family and Chief here that they've all noticed a difference in the person I've become. I'm really proud of that."