JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Airman Malik Shelton, a native of Little Rock, Arkansas, 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.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel |
Shelton, a 2013 graduate of Little Rock Hall High School, joined the Navy one year ago.
“I joined the Navy to help provide for my family,” said Shelton. "The Navy has given me the opportunity to give my daughter advantages she otherwise wouldn't have had."
Today, Shelton relies upon skills and values similar to those found in Little Rock to succeed in the military.
“Growing up, I learned to focus on my surroundings,” said Shelton. "It is important to know what's going on around you at all times."
These lessons have helped Shelton 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 Shelton 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 defends the world's waterways,” said Shelton. "We are the first line of defense for our country."
Shelton and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“Everywhere I've been I have advanced in paygrade,” said Shelton. "I have been around great leaders who have always pushed me to be the best I can be."
As Shelton 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 standing out,” said Shelton. "I'm a small percentage of the people who can or will serve. I'm proud I made the decision to serve my country."
Shelton is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my wife, Tanea Shelton, for the great support she has provided me and for my career," added Shelton. "She has made sacrifices for me and encourages me constantly."