JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Lt. Steven Irvin, a native of Virginia Beach, Virginia, 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.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Bryan Niegel, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Irvin, a 2018 graduate of Old Dominion University, joined the Navy five years ago.
“I joined the Navy to continue a family tradition,” said Irvin. "My mom retired from the Army and my dad served eight years in the Army."
Today, Irvin relies upon skills and values similar to those found in Virginia Beach to succeed in the military.
“What I learned from my hometown was the importance of showing empathy for people,” said Irvin. "I also learned that hard work and determination will take me far in life and make me a better leader."
These lessons have helped Irvin 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 Irvin 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 plays a big role in deterrence and an even bigger role in international defense and helping other countries,” said Irvin. "The Navy has helped a lot of people around the world with its humanitarian efforts."
Irvin and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“My proudest moment is just being part of the Navy and going on deployment with VP 8,” said Irvin. "My family went on deployment when they served and I'm now looking to do my part."
As Irvin and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“The Navy is very rewarding and satisfying in the fact that every day you're learning something new,” said Irvin. "We also get to teach a wide variety of people, both military and civilians, about what our mission is."
Irvin is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'd like to thank my wife, Lexi, and my two children who have supported me every step of the way,” added Irvin. "My wife and I are expecting our first daughter in September. There have been so many people who have impacted my journey as well.”