WASHINGTON, D.C. - A native of Phoenix, Arizona, is currently stationed in the nation’s capital serving with Naval Support Activity Washington.
Petty Officer 1st Class Nyesha Thomas attended Central High School and graduated in 2001.
“Growing up I wouldn't say I was a model citizen,” said Thomas. “I learned some lessons the hard way and have certainly become a better person as a result.”
These lessons continue to help Thomas while serving in the military.
As the “Quarterdeck of the Navy” and the host of many of the Navy’s central efforts in support of warfighters around the world, Naval Support Activity Washington provides safety, security, and the best possible working environment to supported commanders and customers. Naval Support Activity Washington includes six installations: the Washington Navy Yard, Naval Support Facility Naval Research Laboratory, Naval Support Facility Suitland, Naval Support Facility U.S. Naval Observatory, Naval Support Facility Arlington, and Naval Support Facility Carderock.
The installations each have unique support missions and storied histories, For example, Washington Navy Yard is the Navy’s oldest Navy shore installation, and U.S. Naval Observatory houses the master clock which is the official source of the time for the Department of Defense and U.S. government, supporting public affairs, public works, public safety, community support, human resources, information technology, morale, welfare and recreation, supply, air and port operations, ceremonial support and environmental and safety.
Serving in the Navy means Thomas 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.
“The Navy has a global presence,” said Thomas. “We are America's first line of defense and protect our way of life.”
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.
Thomas and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I'm proud that I have been able to have a successful career in the Navy and do something to show that I can overcome adversity,” said Thomas.
As Thomas 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.
“Serving for me means being a positive influence for junior sailors,” added Thomas. “That's what I'm in for.”