JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Petty Officer 3rd Class Derris Key, a native of Prattville, Alabama, serves with Patrol and Reconnaissance Squadron (VP) 8 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 Brian Niegel, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Key, a 2012 graduate of Marbury High School, joined the Navy four years ago.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to be like my dad, Dennis,” said Key. "He served 20 years in the Navy and retired as a chief petty officer."
Today, Key relies upon skills and values similar to those found in Prattville to succeed in the military.
“I learned to respect others,” said Key. "Being from the South, we learned to treat people the way you wanted to be treated."
These lessons have helped Key while serving in the Navy.
VP 8 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 Key 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 U.S. Navy is instrumental in maintaining the security of our coasts and protecting the ideals of freedom and democracy,” said Key.
Key and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is just being in the Navy,” said Key. "Due to a medical issue, it was doubtful that I could even get in, let alone work in an aviation field."
As Key and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“I serve in the Navy so other people don't have to,” said Key. "I also do it for my family and friends."
Key is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'd like to thank my dad who gave me some tough love and helped me decide to join,” said Key. "I'd also like to thank my wife, Tyra, and my three kids."
“I'm almost finished with my college degree,” added Key. "I'm 20 credits from a Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine and Exercise Science."