By Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Petty Officer 1st Class Giavanni Walker sang the National Anthem ahead of Game 2 of the World Series between the Atlanta Braves and Houston Astros.
“I joined the Navy to become well-rounded,” said Walker. “I attended an international studies high school and became acclimated to various cultures. Traveling in the Navy and interacting with different cultural backgrounds is what drew me in along with education. I have always loved school and learning in general. Even now, the Navy is one of the most diverse organizations I have encountered. To this day, I feel fortunate to have made such an arduous and impactful decision.”
Growing up in Houston, Walker attended Houston Academy for International Studies and graduated in 2013. Today, Walker uses the same skills and values learned in Houston to succeed in the military.
“The high school I attended is one of the major impacts on my success in the Navy,” said Walker. “The exposure I had to various cultures from all over the world as well as being given adult responsibilities at such a young age prepared me for not just the Navy, but how to be a successful, determined being.”
Today, Walker serves as an operations specialist currently working as a recruiter.
“I wanted to become a recruiter because I knew that there were young men and women who don't know what is on the other side of the door aside from the rumors and movies,” said Walker. “I wanted to be someone’s light into success like a recruiter was for me."
The mission of Navy recruiting commands are to leverage an inspirational culture to inform, attract, influence and hire the highest quality candidates from America's diverse talent pool to allow America's Navy to assure mission success and establish the foundation for sailors to thrive in a life-changing experience.
Serving in the Navy means Walker is part of a team 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.
While there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Walker is most proud of the musical opportunities the Navy has made possible.
“Since joining the Navy, I have to say that I had always dreamed about singing at a major sports game,” said Walker. “Being a part of the Navy tremendously helped me accomplish that dream that I envisioned since I was a little girl. Singing at a Houston Astros baseball game before a packed stadium for my own hometown was definitely a pinnacle moment in my life and one of the accomplishments I am most proud of.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Walker, 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.
While there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Walker is most proud of the musical opportunities the Navy has made possible.
“Since joining the Navy, I have to say that I had always dreamed about singing at a major sports game,” said Walker. “Being a part of the Navy tremendously helped me accomplish that dream that I envisioned since I was a little girl. Singing at a Houston Astros baseball game before a packed stadium for my own hometown was definitely a pinnacle moment in my life and one of the accomplishments I am most proud of.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Walker, 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.
“Now, more than ever, I have realized that regardless of where I go or what I do, I am the Navy,” added Walker. “The decisions I make and the things I say represent the Navy. To me, serving in the Navy means confidence. It means bravery and courage. It means perseverance. Most of all, serving in the Navy has caused me to focus on more than just myself. It has helped me to help others around me. I consider serving in our country's Navy both a privilege and an honor.”
See video here: https://vimeo.com/639801348/87c6e599be