WASHINGTON, D.C. - A native of Placerville, California, is currently stationed in the nation’s capital serving with U.S. Naval District Washington alongside his military working dog, ‘Seahawk.’
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Amber A. Weingart, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Seaman James Northon attended Ponderosa High School and graduated in 2016. Today, Northon uses skills and values similar to those learned in Placerville.
“Growing up, the life lesson I have carried over to my naval career is working hard even when no one is looking,” said Northon. “It is important to always put your best efforts in everything you do because your job speaks about you even when you are not there. Also, I have learned the importance of being part of a team while standing out independently due to your own merits, Northon added.”
These lessons continue to help Northon while serving in the military.
With the nation’s capital at its heart, the region encompasses more than 4,000 square miles, including the District of Columbia; the Maryland counties of Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Carroll, Charles, Frederick, Howard, Montgomery, Prince Georges, St. Mary’s, The City of Baltimore and Bloodsworth Island; and Virginia counties of Arlington, Caroline, Fairfax, Fauquier, King George, Loudoun, Prince William, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Westmoreland.
Naval District Washington is the regional provider of common operating support to naval installations within a 100-mile radius of the Pentagon. Services provided include 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 Northon 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.
“It is very important to have ships all over the world at any given time” said Northon. “We do so much to protect our national security with multi-talented personnel and versatile jobs.”
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.
Northon and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
In the Navy, we have a Law Enforcement Secondary School,” said Northon. “I got top of the class. During my time there, I was always very observant, I put extra time on the work, I never neglected my studies and all of that paid off.”
Northon’s commitment led him to being selected to work with Seahawk.
“It was a special moment when I met Seahawk,” said Northon. “I was assigned two different military dogs to train, but I knew Seahawk was going to be the one that would stay with me. As I was training as a dog handler, I realized that he was easy to work with. They were not testing Seahawk but me: our connection and my ability to accomplish the job with him as a team. Seahawk is amazing and has a super power to keep us safe that is unmatched.”
As Northon 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 am really proud that I am part of an organization that allows me to serve, but also to provide support to others,” said Northon. “It could be something small that is affecting someone or any issue really serious to them. Regardless, I am in a position where I can support my shipmates because I care for them.”