By Stephanie Fox, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, Tenn. – A Winter Park, Florida, native and grandson of Homosassa Springs, Florida, natives, successfully completed United States Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program at Naval Nuclear Power Training Command.
The Naval Nuclear Power Training Command is a program element of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program and is responsible for educating enlisted and commissioned personnel of the U.S. nuclear naval program.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Brendan Youmans attended Lake Howell High School and graduated in 2020. Youmans joined the Navy one year ago.
“I joined the Navy to travel the world and build a good foundation for my life and future family,” said Youmans.
According to Youmans, the skills needed to succeed in the military are similar to those learned in Winter Park.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of my loving family, friends and teachers,” said Youmans. “In my hometown I learned the importance of trying your best at everything you do and to treat other people with the respect that you’d like to be treated with. It doesn’t cost anything to be kind to someone. More often than not, being kind makes a big difference.”
Today, Youmans serves as an electrician’s mate (nuclear).
Electrician's mates (nuclear) operate and control generators, switchboards, control equipment, and electrical equipment associated with reactor plants; operate and perform organizational and intermediate maintenance on power and lighting circuits, electrical fixtures, motors, generators, voltage and frequency regulators, controllers, distribution switchboards, and other electrical equipment; test for short circuits, grounds or other casualties; and repair and/or rebuild electrical equipment, including solid state circuitry elements.
“My favorite part about being an electrician’s mate is taking my knowledge and applying it,” said Youmans.
Serving in the Navy means Youmans 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.
There are many opportunities for sailors, such as Youmans, to earn recognition in their command, community and careers while serving in the Navy.
"I am most proud of putting in the effort necessary to graduate Naval Nuclear Power School," said Youmans.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Youmans, 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.
“To me, serving in Navy means that every day I get to strive to be the best version of myself and to help my fellow shipmates become the best versions of themselves too," added Youmans.