By Megan Lemly, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Ensign Kali Williams-Truitt, a native of Winchester, Virginia, will graduate from the U.S. Navy's Limited Duty Officer/Warrant Officer/Chief Warrant Officer (LDO/WO/CWO) Academy on Jan. 31.
"I joined the Navy for the opportunity to travel and to continue a family tradition of service," Williams-Truitt said.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Winchester.
"Early on I learned that hard work is required to achieve your goals," Williams-Truitt said.
The LDO/WO/CWO Academy is one of four officer accession programs operating at Officer Training Command Newport (OTCN) Newport, Rhode Island. The academy prepares officers to become effective leaders by developing fundamental skills in leadership, written and oral communication, career management and administration.
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
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.
Before joining the academy, Williams-Truitt served as an enlisted petty officer first class. After graduation, Williams-Truitt will serve as an officer aboard, USS Gerald R. Ford, an aircraft carrier operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
Williams-Truitt has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
"I am most proud of successful deployments and my selection as a naval officer," Williams-Truitt said.
Williams-Truitt serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
"I am honored to be able to lead my sailors in a new path or role," Williams-Truitt added.