GULFPORT, Miss. - Since 1942, sailors assigned to the U.S. Navy’s Construction Force have been building and fighting around the world. Petty Officer 2nd Class Julius Dray, a native of Richmond, Kentucky, is one of those sailors.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jeffrey Yale |
Eighty-two years ago, members of Navy Construction Battalions were fittingly nicknamed, “Seabees,” a play on the C and B initials. They are responsible for building military bases and airfields, supporting humanitarian efforts and conducting underwater construction projects. The Seabees’ motto is “We Build, We Fight.”
Dray is a utilitiesman currently serving with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 11 at the headquarters for naval construction forces in Gulfport, Mississippi, which serves as a home base for the Atlantic Fleet Seabees.
Dray graduated from Madison Central High School in 2019.
Dray joined the Navy five years ago.
“I joined the Navy because I come from a military family,” said Dray. “My great grandpa’s brother was a paratrooper in World War II, my grandpa was a Marine during the Vietnam War and both uncles were in the Army. My parents both also served in the Navy. I’m the only one of my siblings to join, but I knew from a young age that I wanted to join.”
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Richmond.
“Most of my advice I got from my dad, who served 17 years in the Navy and was a chief,” said Dray. “He has all kinds of stories. He helps me be a better leader for my junior troops.”
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.
Dray 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.”
Dray has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is advancing to petty officer second class in four years,” said Dray. “Coming into the Navy, I always thought it would take a lot longer to advance. Doing it so fast took a lot of hard work and I’m proud I was able to do it.”
Dray can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy has given me control in my life,” said Dray. “It’s also given me stability for myself and my son.”
Dray is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my parents, Jeffery Dray and Silvia Navarro, and my family and friends for their support and encouragement in everything I do,” added Dray.