MILLINGTON, Tenn. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Avondrae Shannon, a native of Tulsa, Oklahoma, serving the U.S. Navy assigned to U.S. Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (USNMRTC) Sigonella, Italy, was recently awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal.
Shannon graduated from Union Public High School in 2016 and attended Excelsior College.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Tulsa.
“Growing up, I learned to remember how blessed I am, and how important family and taking care of yourself is,” said Shannon.
Shannon joined the Navy seven years ago.
“I joined the Navy to travel the world and receive a higher level of education,” said Shannon.
Today, Shannon serves as a culinary specialist.
“I like making people smile and setting a standard that others can follow,” said Shannon.
USNMRTC Sigonella / Naval Hospital Sigonella is a community hospital located in the heart of the Mediterranean in Sicily, Italy. Comprised of a local satellite clinic and two branch health clinics located in Bahrain and Souda Bay, USNMRTC Sigonella’s staff of 387 serves approximately 8,500 active duty, family members, NATO members, retirees and other beneficiaries based on international collaborations and status of forces agreements.
“Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Shannon was a staple at this command,” said Cmdr. Joseph Fromknecht, USNMRTC Sigonella Director for Administration. “He was always willing to help and always said ‘Yes.’ In a hospital corpsman-dominant command, he provided guidance, mentorship, and Sailorization to all those who sought his guidance. He is very passionate about his rate and cooking and is very much looking forward to cooking at the highest of levels. His presence, teamwork, leadership, and sincere dedication to the command and staff will truly be missed.”
Shannon has completed their tour of duty with USNMRTC Sigonella and will transition to a new role.
“Petty Officer Shannon is well-positioned to advance his naval career as he takes on a new role working exclusively for Vice Adm. Brad Cooper at the U.S. 5th Fleet in Bahrain,” said Lt. Julius Wiseman III, head of the Human Resources Department at USNMRTC Sigonella. “During his tenure at USNMRTC Sigonella, he consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence in his work. His culinary skills and service were pivotal during two Change of Command ceremonies and numerous Diversity Committee events. Additionally, he served as a Mail Orderly, ensuring that the command received its mail promptly.
“His proactive attitude and professional demeanor will be greatly missed.”
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.
Shannon serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
Shannon has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is meeting people I would consider family now,” said Shannon.
Shannon can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means a lot to me,” said Shannon. “My father did it for 26 years and it’s almost a tradition at this point.”
Shannon is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I just want to say I’m truly blessed and thankful for every adventure and path God has set out for me,” added Shannon. “I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday and remains safe.”