By Megan Brown
Navy Office of Comm unity Outreach
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla.- Seaman James Sullivan, a native of Lakeside, California, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal.
Sullivan graduated from West Hills High School in 2011.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Lakeside. Sullivan joined the Navy two and a half years ago.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to provide for my family and change the path my life was headed,” said Sullivan. “My grandfather was also prior Navy which helped in my choice.”
Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal provides high-risk specialized explosive ordnance disposal training to U.S. and partner nation military and selected U.S. government personnel. The school trains approximately 2,200 students annually and prepares them morally, mentally and physically to succeed across the full range of military operations.
“Having a cadre of students who are eager to learn and extremely hardworking, ensures the future of our Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal community,” said Capt. Steven Beall, commanding officer, Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal.
Serving in the Navy means Sullivan 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 supports national defense by defending our seas and having special teams that excel on land,” said Sullivan.
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.
Sullivan has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I am most proud of making it this far,” said Sullivan. “This is the hardest thing I have ever done in my life.”
As Sullivan 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 means everything to me,” said Sullivan. “It has changed me as a man for the better.”
Sullivan is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my wife, Sarah, and my family for all their love and support,” added Sullivan.
