GULFPORT, Miss. - Since 1942, sailors assigned to the U.S. Navy’s Construction Force have been building and fighting around the world. Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) Gulfport, located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, is home to the Atlantic Fleet “Seabees” (a play on the C and B initials).
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Derek Harkins |
Senior Chief Petty Officer James Daniels, a native of Birmingham, Alabama, currently serves with NCBC Gulfport as a culinary specialist serving with more than 10,000 service members, civilian personnel, veterans and family members associated with the installation.
Whether serving in the construction force or in a supporting role, the sailors of NCBC Gulfport personify the “Can-Do” motto of Seabees and are ready to deploy and serve globally.
While the name culinary specialist paints a picture of someone preparing meals, Daniels is assigned to NCBC’s Unaccompanied Housing Department and is responsible for the logistics and upkeep of the barracks for unaccompanied service members.
Daniels, who graduated from Spain Park High School in 2007, joined the Navy 17 years ago.
“At the time, continuing school didn’t feel like it was right for me,” said Daniels. “I needed to do something productive with my life, so I joined the Navy.”
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Birmingham.
“Growing up, I learned to just have a strong work ethic and achieve what it is you truly want,” said Daniels. “Never settle for less.”
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.
Daniels 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.”
Daniels has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“Currently, I’m very proud of advancing to senior chief petty officer,” said Daniels. “Previously, I was proud of my tour in Afghanistan and serving aboard a couple of ships. I was also proud of being the only culinary specialist qualified for the Visit, Board, Search and Seizure team for counter-piracy and drug operations.”
Daniels can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy is a stepping stone for me,” said Daniels. “I see it as an organization of typical jobs that can help you excel in life.”
Daniels is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I’d like to thank everyone who legitimately supported me and had a genuine interest in what I was doing and cared for my well-being,” said Daniels.