MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Lt. j.g. Jonathan Bittinger, a native of Smithfield, Pennsylvania, graduated from the U.S. Navy’s Officer Development School (ODS) on March 29.
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Bittinger, a 2004 graduate of Albert Gallatin High School, joined the Navy two months ago. Additionally, Bittinger earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Duquesne University in 2008.
“I joined the Navy for the honor of serving my country and furthering my career goals,” said Bittinger.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Smithfield.
“Growing up in Smithfield taught me the importance of commitment and having a good work ethic,” said Bittinger.
ODS is one of four officer accession programs operating at Officer Training Command Newport, Rhode Island. This is the final step in a sailor’s transition into the Naval Officer Corps. This course is comprehensive, intense and designed to reinforce understanding of the responsibilities of a naval officer.
Bittinger will serve as an officer in the Nurse Corps at the Uniformed Services University of Health Science.
“Officer Development School has been a great indoctrination program to military culture,” said Bittinger. “Graduating ODS is the first step in military leadership and a successful career.”
Bittinger has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is being accepted into such a prestigious university to advance my career and being sponsored by the Navy,” said Bittinger.
Bittinger serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“It is an honor to serve my country,” said Bittinger. “I have been afforded many opportunities in my life that have been made possible by those who have served. I want to give back to the country that has given me so much. I want uphold the freedoms that I have been afforded for my children and future generations.”
Bittinger is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my family: Brooke, Charlie, Casey, my dad, Jon, my mom, Valerie, my sisters, Chas and Rachel, and my brothers-in-law, Brian and Josh,” added Bittinger. “I’d also like to thank my friends and coaches.”