NORFOLK, Va. - Petty Officer 1st Class James Jordan, a native of Willis, Texas, serves aboard a U.S. Navy warship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Beverly Taylor, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Jordan graduated in 2008 from Willis High School.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Willis.
“Growing up, my grandfather was big on working hard and producing quality work in everything we do,” said Jordan. "His entire life he took every job seriously. He put the same work ethic into his garden after he retired. Working hard is very important in the Navy.”
Jordan joined the Navy 11 years ago. Today, Jordan serves as an information systems technician aboard USS Ross.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to travel to other countries,” said Jordan. "I lived in Japan for about three years. I lived in Bahrain for about two years and Spain for about a year. I was also inspired by my dad, Jim, to join. He loved his time in the Navy and shared such great stories with me about his service."
USS Ross, a guided-missile destroyer, provides a wide range of warfighting capabilities in multi-threat air, surface and subsurface environments.
A destroyer is a multi-mission ship that can operate independently or as part of a larger group of ships at sea. The ship is equipped with tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a phalanx close-in weapons system.
More than 300 sailors serve aboard USS Ross. Their jobs are highly specialized, requiring both dedication and skill. Their jobs range from maintaining engines to handling weaponry, alongside a multitude of other assignments that keep the ship mission-ready at all times, according to Navy officials.
Serving in the Navy means Jordan is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy is important to national defense becuase we provide a display of force that deters adversaries and reassures our allies,” said Jordan.
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 trained sailors and a strong Navy.
Jordan has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy was getting my Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist qualification,” said Jordan. "I am proud of that because it requires a lot of knowledge since you have to learn about all the different aspects of the ship. When I finally finished, it felt good to complete that achievement."
As Jordan and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the U.S. Navy.
“Serving means that I have a chance to mentor and guide my sailors,” said Jordan. "Whether they decide on a career in the Navy or go out in the civilian world, I am eager to help guide them."
Jordan is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
"I'd like to send a thank you to my parents, Jim and Rosalie,” added Jordan. "I'm grateful for their support and for always taking care of me and keeping me on the right track."
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