Hampton native to graduate from Officer Candidate School

By Ashley Craig, Navy Office of Community Outreach

MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Ensign Aaron Gareau, a native of Hampton, New Hampshire, will graduate from the Navy’s Officer Candidate School (OCS) on Nov. 22.

Gareau, a 2015 graduate of Winnacunnet High School, joined the Navy less than a year ago. Additionally, Gareau graduated from the University of Tampa in 2019.

“I joined the Navy to better myself and to have a more challenging and meaningful career,” said Gareau. “I look forward to traveling the world and leading enlisted sailors.”

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Hampton.

“Growing up, I learned to lead by example and to do the right thing even when no one is watching,” said Gareau. “I thank my childhood friends and my family for instilling toughness and resilience in me.”

OCS is one of four officer accession programs operating at Officer Training Command Newport (OTCN). OCS is the final step in a sailor’s transition into the Naval Officer Corps. This rigorous 13-week program is comprehensive, intense, and designed to reinforce understanding of the responsibilities of a naval officer.

Located in Newport, Rhode Island, the command’s mission is to develop newly commissioned officers morally, mentally and physically, and imbue them with the highest ideals of honor, courage and commitment in order to prepare them for the Fleet. Additionally, this program prepares officers to become effective leaders by developing fundamental skills in leadership, written and oral communication, career management and administration.

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.

Gareau 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.”

Gareau has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“So far, I am most proud of completing three phases of OCS and being on track to graduate,” said Gareau. “I am excited for my future career as a naval officer.”

As Gareau and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the U.S. Navy.

“Being an officer in the United States Navy will allow me to lead sailors around the world, and to continue to learn and grow as I further my career,” said Gareau.