LEMOORE, Calif. – Petty Officer 1st Class John Buckley, a native of Haysville, North Carolina, is serving with the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU) Lemoore located aboard the U.S. Navy’s largest master jet base in Lemoore, California.
As an instructor at CNATTU, Buckley is serving with sailors and Marines developing the skills required for naval aviation warfighting. Students are taught the requirements and skills needed to be successful in their careers. Instructors and staff are experts in the subject matter they teach and they provide cutting-edge technical training that transforms students into mission-ready sailors.
Buckley joined the Navy 17 years ago. Today, Buckley serves as an aviation electrician’s mate.
“I had been working in construction and wanted a change for my future,” said Buckley. "The Navy was a better fit for me than college."
According to Buckley, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Haysville.
“I learned from my hometown how to work well with others, as well as the value of hard work and selflessness,” said Buckley.
According to Navy officials, CNATTU’s mission is to produce resilient sailors and Marines with the necessary knowledge and skills to troubleshoot and maintain aircraft systems. These high-quality trained maintainers will provide the fleet with aircraft readiness needed to succeed in combat.
This year commemorates 50 years of women flying in the U.S. Navy. In 1973, the first eight women began flight school in Pensacola; one year later six of them, known as "The First Six," earned their “Wings of Gold.” Over the past 50 years, the Navy has expanded its roles for women to lead and serve globally and today our women aviators project power from the sea in every type of Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard aircraft. Our Nation and our Navy is stronger because of their service.
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."
Serving in the Navy means Buckley 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 components of the Navy are able to get to locations quickly and effectively,” said Buckley.
Buckley and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“Sailorization and mentorship are my most important accomplishments,” said Buckley. "Sharing my tribal knowledge makes me proud."
As Buckley and other sailors continue to train and perform the mission they are tasked with, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“The Navy helps me be something other than myself,” added Buckley. “I do this to protect my family and others who cannot protect themselves.”
Buckley is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I’m grateful to my parents, wife and children who have all supported me throughout my career,” said Buckley.
“I’ve learned to work hard because good things will come of it,” added Buckley.