OAK HARBOR, Wash. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyson Whitaker, a native of Grain Valley, Missouri, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Patrol Squadron (VP) 9 at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
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| Photo by Alvin Plexico |
Whitaker graduated from Grain Valley High School in 2015.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Grain Valley.
“I learned growing up the importance of hard work, dedication and the ability to create friendships,” said Whitaker.
Whitaker joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Whitaker serves as a yeoman.
“I joined the Navy for educational opportunities and to travel,” said Whitaker. "My great-grandfather also served during World War II."
Members of VP-9 fly and maintain 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 train, operate and deploy, according to Navy officials. P-8A aircraft deploy around the globe to monitor the world’s oceans wherever they are needed.
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.
“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.”
Whitaker has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I'm proud to have completed my first deployment to Iceland and Bahrain earlier this year,” said Whitaker. "I'm also proud to make my current rank of second class and to help my command function at a high level."
Whitaker serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Serving in the Navy has given me opportunities to explore the world and to meet people from all different backgrounds,” said Whitaker.
Whitaker is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my grandparents, Clint and Joanna Whitaker, for giving me the motivation to join the military and for supporting me in my decision to do so,” added Whitaker.