BOSTON – Petty Officer 3rd Class Dehjon Okafor, a former St. Mary’s, Georgia, resident, is one of nearly 80 sailors celebrating America’s 246 years of independence while serving aboard USS Constitution.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class James Green, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Okafor joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Okafor serves as a yeoman.
“I joined the Navy for the experiences and for the educational opportunities,” said Okafor. “I am the first child in the family to join the military.”
USS Constitution is the U.S. Navy’s oldest commissioned warship, and the crew is hand-picked to promote naval history and maritime heritage while raising awareness of the importance of a sustained naval presence.
The ship earned the nickname Old Ironsides during the War of 1812 after British cannonballs were seen bouncing off the ship’s wooden hull. USS Constitution was undefeated in battle and captured or destroyed 33 enemy vessels.
With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.
"Our mission remains timeless - to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level," said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. "This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”
As a member of the Navy, Okafor is part of a world-class organization focused on maintaining maritime dominance, strengthening partnerships, increasing competitive warfighting capabilities and sustaining combat-ready forces in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy has diverse capabilities that keep our country safe and adversaries at bay,” said Okafor.
As Okafor and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Serving in the Navy means knowing your job, knowing the skills you need and knowing the sailors around you to be able to effectively work as a team,” said Okafor.
Okafor is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my friends and family because even though they don’t have military experience, they still support me and are able to give me life advice on other things,” added Okafor.