EVERETT, Wash. - Colton Whitworth, a native of Reno, Nevada, serves the U.S. Navy as a civilian employee aboard Naval Station Everett in the Pacific Northwest.
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| Photo by Alvin Plexico |
Whitworth graduated from Sparks High School in 2001.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Reno.
“Growing up, I learned the importance of family relationships and social networking,” said Whitworth. “I work in public affairs so social networking and building relationships are a huge part of the job.”
Whitworth has spent 18 years in government service, including four years in the Navy. Today, Whitworth serves as a public affairs officer.
“I joined the Navy after 9/11 because I wanted to go to war,” said Whitworth. “I came back to government service because that transition from the Navy to government service made sense. After going to college and getting my master’s, moving into government service was pretty seamless.”
Naval Station Everett, one of only two Navy-owned deep-water ports on the West Coast, is home to the command staffs of Carrier Strike Group 11 and Destroyer Group 9, six U.S. Navy ships and one Coast Guard vessel. The base enhances the nation’s ability to accomplish strategic objectives by supporting U.S. Navy and Coast Guard forces, according to Navy officials.
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.
Whitworth 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.”
Whitworth has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I’m proud of all the things I’ve done in my current position,” said Whitworth. “I’ve had a diverse resume and have done everything from construction to building bombs to counting birds and catching frogs. Those connections with different programs help when I’m working through different silos and program areas.”
Whitworth can take pride in serving America through military service.
“I think my service as a Navy civilian is important to me because the Navy is such an important developmental piece in my young adulthood that made me the person I am today,” said Whitworth. “Coming back to work with the Navy, there’s a sort of nostalgia associated with it. I’m proud to be able to support my country and the people we’re serving.”
Whitworth is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my former lead petty officer in the Navy, Christopher Burton,” added Whitworth. “He saved my butt in Dubai.”