GROTON, Conn. – Petty Officer 2nd Class Seth Motley, a native of Phoenix, Arizona, serves the U.S. Navy at Naval Submarine Base New London.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class James Green, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Motley, a 2019 Shadow Mountain High School graduate, joined the Navy four years ago.
“I joined for the benefits the Navy provides me and my family,” said Motley. "The Navy is a steady job that gives me experience and allows me to travel. I've wanted to join since I was a kid."
Skills and values similar to those found in Phoenix are important to succeed in the military.
“I learned in Phoenix that everyone comes from a different background,” said Motley. "I'm used to working with a diverse group of people. That background allows me to succeed in the Navy, especially as a religious programs specialist with the Chaplain."
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, Motley 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.
“I feel the strongest defenses come from the sea,” said Motley. "Without a sea defense, there are a lot of weaknesses along our borders. The Navy defends the seas and provides valuable transportation.”
As Motley and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Being in the Navy means a lot to me,” said Motley. “It provides for me and my family, that's the biggest thing. It also offers a lot of programs that can help your career, you just have to seek them out.”
Motley is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.“I am grateful for Petty Officer 1st Class Dawaylon Farr, Petty Officer 2nd Class Wade Bryant, Chaplain Ray Rivers and my family for all their support,” added Motley. "They are the ones that helped shape who I am as a religious programs specialist. They helped build my work ethic, taught me how to stand out and taught me how to excel overall."