VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Petty Officer 1st Class Ronnie Hornsby, a native of North, South Carolina, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Klineizquierdo |
Hornsby graduated from North Middle High School in 2014.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in North.
“Growing up, I learned three important lessons: life is hard, lessons are meant to be learned, and to rest and try again,” said Hornsby.
Hornsby joined the Navy nine years ago. Today, Hornsby serves as a gunner’s mate.
“I joined the Navy for the ability to travel, experience different cultures and serve my country,” said Hornsby.
Hornsby is continuing a family tradition of military service.
“My grandfather on my mother’s side was in the Marines and my grandfather on my father’s side was in the Army,” said Hornsby.
According to Navy officials, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story is the country’s premier installation for housing and training the nation’s expeditionary forces. It is one command with two properties: Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story and JEB Little Creek. The Joint Expeditionary Base is comprised of the former Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek and the Army Post of Fort Story. Fort Story witnessed the humble beginnings of the nation at the 1607 first landing site. Little Creek began as a dynamic training ground for World War II amphibious forces.
With 90% 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 recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Hornsby serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”
Hornsby has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I was selected as the command’s Senior Sailor of the Year for 2023,” said Hornsby. “I’m proud of what this selection means. It required honesty and hard work. I’m thankful because my sailors push me to be even better.”
Hornsby can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means serving an empowering force that enables sea power around the globe,” said Hornsby.
Hornsby is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my wife, Ashley Marie,” added Hornsby. “We’ve been together since middle school and recently celebrated our ninth wedding anniversary.”