JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Alia Teamer, a native of Rocky Mount, North Carolina, 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 |
Teamer, a 2016 graduate of Rocky Mount High School, joined the Navy six years ago.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to travel,” said Teamer. "Growing up, I didn't get to travel to a lot of places and the Navy has given me that opportunity. I always dreamt of going to Japan and on my first deployment, I got that chance."
Today, Teamer relies upon skills and values similar to those found in Rocky Mount to succeed in the military.
“Growing up, I learned to be very respectful,” said Teamer. "It makes me more approachable."
These lessons have helped Teamer 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 Teamer 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 responsible for keeping the seas secure,” said Teamer. "We fill a void that the other branches can't fill."
Teamer and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“The Navy has enabled me to be financially secure,” said Teamer. "The Navy has given me training on how to manage my finances, which has had a big impact on my life."
As Teamer 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 is a fulfilling experience,” said Teamer. "I do this for my family, friends and for everyone who would love to join the military but does not have the opportunity to do so."
Teamer is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my parents, Tamara Puddy and Scott Teamer,” added Teamer. "They have shown me constant support and encouragement.”