Thursday, December 5, 2024

Sailor from Honolulu balances careers with the Navy and Amazon

Story by Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Mary Rogers

OKLAHOMA CITY - Engineman 1st Class Jonathan Davis, a sailor from Honolulu, Hawaii, is a Navy reservist who has devoted his life to serving both his community and his country. He balances civilian employment with Amazon, the demands of a Navy Reserve career, and his family’s needs, ensuring his spouse and seven children are happy and successful.
(Aug. 29, 2024) Engineman 1st Class Jonathan Davis stands inside
NRC Oklahoma City during his free time to work on his command
fitness leader duties.
(Photo by Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Mary Rogers)


His naval journey began with a deep respect for the military, inspired by his father who served in the Marine Corps. Scoring an impressive 91 on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), a test to determine qualifications for enlistment in the armed forces, Davis chose to follow his father’s example of service to the nation but opted for the Navy which aligned more closely with his personal goals.

Intending to join the ranks of active duty to travel and see the world, his life took a different path after completing boot camp and A-school and transitioning into the Navy Reserve. Although discouraged at the time, he found a valuable mentor in Chief Petty Officer Quincey Leroy who encouraged him to forge a path that afforded him more opportunities to travel. In his naval career, Davis has visited many different locations including Virginia, California, Washington and Hawaii.

Davis drills with Navy Reserve Center (NRC) Oklahoma City, where his skills are vital to the success of his mobilizing unit with Defense Logistics Agency, as well as the entire reserve center. In his unit, he works to secure mission-critical parts and supplies for commands and facilities globally.

Additionally, Davis serves as the reserve center’s Command Fitness Leader, where he assists fellow servicemen and women in achieving the highest states of physical readiness, and ensures they are fit and prepared for any challenges that come their way.

In his spare time, Davis is never shy about volunteering where help is needed. He has participated in over 750 funeral honors details for NRC Oklahoma City, receiving accolades from Funeral Honors coordinator Aviation Machinist's Mate 2nd Class Arielle Jackson.

"Davis is an extremely dedicated sailor in and out of uniform, a leader that cares deeply for his fellow sailors and the mission at hand, and the best example of naval tradition to families and the public," said Jackson.

In his civilian career, Davis works as an Amazon associate. The proximity of his civilian job to his command allows him to support both his work and his family effectively.

When commenting on his experiences, Davis noted that promoting to petty officer third class solidified his commitment and dedication to the Navy. That’s when he decided to make the Navy Reserve a career.

Reflecting on his career to date, Davis said, “I have learned to live my life in a positive, objective and proactive manner to anticipate possible opportunities that exist."

Davis’ story is one of perseverance, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in military and civilian life.