JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Lt. Sahara Graft, a native of Key West, Florida, serves with Patrol and Reconnaissance Squadron (VP) 45 based out of Jacksonville, Florida. The squadron’s primary mission is to undertake maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
 |
| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Graft, a 2014 graduate of Key West High School, joined the Navy five years ago. Additionally, Graft graduated from U.S. Naval Academy in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry.
“I joined the Navy to serve my country and to follow in the footsteps of my father, retired Navy commander and pilot, Wade Graft,” said Graft. “I wear my father's squadron patch from when he served with VFA 146 in Lemoore, California. It’s a constant reminder of my family's love and support, and I’m proud to know I am carrying on my family's legacy.”
Today, Graft relies upon skills and values similar to those found in Key West to succeed in the military.
“I learned from my hometown that no matter how big your dream is, hard work and dedication are what you need to accomplish your goals,” said Graft. “Growing up, I never thought being a pilot was possible, but I learned that nothing can stop you besides yourself."
These lessons have helped Graft while serving in the Navy.
VP 45 flies the U.S. Navy’s P-8A Poseidon multi-mission maritime aircraft. Designed to secure the U.S. Navy’s future in long-range maritime patrol capability, the P-8A has transformed how the Navy’s maritime patrol and reconnaissance force will man, train, operate and deploy, according to Navy officials. While the aircraft is also equipped with high-quality weapon systems, it also has an open architecture to allow for expansion. P-8A deploy around the globe to monitor the world’s oceans wherever they are needed.
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 Graft is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy is critical to national defense by maintaining a forward presence overseas and for America's overall power projection,” said Graft.
Graft and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I'm most proud of becoming an instructor pilot,” said Graft. “I feel grateful to have the opportunity to train the future pilots of naval aviation.”
As Graft and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Being part of the United States Navy is a very fulfilling and rewarding experience because I know we are making a difference for the future of our country,” said Graft.
Graft is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my mother, Lisa, and the rest of my family for always being supportive,” added Graft. “Additionally, I would like to thank my local community for their support and encouragement.”