MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Ensign Tiana Shobe, a native of Lubbock, Texas, will graduate from the Navy’s Officer Candidate School (OCS) on Nov. 22.
Shobe is a 2018 graduate of Monterey High School and a Concordia University graduate.
"I joined the Navy to serve my country, to stand alongside people who share my drive and dedication and to pursue a career in aviation that would push me to my limits and fill my life with purpose," said Shobe. "This journey is about reaching new heights, both in the skies and personal growth."
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Lubbock.
“Growing up in my hometown gave me many role models to admire," said Shobe. "I learned that how you approach one task reflects how you approach everything. The hardworking people in Lubbock are filled with grit, resilience and a deep love of community taking pride in their work and families."
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.
Shobe 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.”
Shobe has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
"Graduating from OCS transformed me by pushing my mental and physical limits, showing me the depth of my resilience and determination," said Shobe. "It helped me build a new level of confidence that I carry into every challenge. I also gained lifelong friendships with people from all over the country, creating a network of camaraderie and support that I will cherish forever."
As Shobe and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the U.S. Navy.
"Serving in the Navy and graduating from the academy means embracing a life of purpose that reflects dedication to something greater than myself," added Shobe. "It's a commitment to lead with integrity, inspire a legacy of service to protect and empower others. This path allows me to make a lasting impact on those I serve with and the nation I protect."