MILLINGTON, Tenn. - Petty Officer 1st Class James Bell, a Freeport, Illinois, native recently reenlisted into America's Navy.
"I joined the Navy to explore places outside of Illinois and to experience new cultures and traditions," said Bell.
Today, Bell serves as an aviation ordanceman at Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Philadelphia.
"My favorite part of my job is the ability to travel and the friendships I have been able to form," said Bell.
Bell attended Freeport High School and graduated in 2015. Today, Bell relies upon skills and values similar to those found in Freeport to succeed in the military.
"I learned in Freeport that hard work pays off and that persistence is key," said Bell.
Bell uses these lessons to succeed while serving in the Navy.
NTAG Philadelphia encompasses regions of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and West Virginia, providing recruiting services from more than 30 talent acquisition sites with the overall goal of attracting the highest quality candidates to ensure the ongoing success of America’s Navy.
Serving in the Navy means Bell 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 contributes to national defense by protecting maritime peace and by providing global security," said Bell.
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 underwater fiber optic, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers.
"I am most proud of being a part of the 2017 USS George H.W. Bush deployment," said Bell. "We broke the record for most ordnance dropped on a deployment. Over 1700 weapons deployed with a 99% success rate."
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Bell, as well as other sailors, know they are part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
"Serving in the Navy gives me the ability to take care of my family and gives me purpose in life," added Bell.