By Megan Brown
BOSTON – Airman James Hoy, a native of Gilbert, Arizona, is one of nearly 80 sailors celebrating America’s 246 years of independence while serving aboard USS Constitution.
Hoy, a 2012 Highland High School graduate, joined the Navy seven months ago.
Today, Hoy serves as an aviation structural mechanic.
“I joined the Navy to learn a new skill, to get experience and to follow in the footsteps of my grandfathers who were both sailors,” said Hoy.
Skills and values similar to those found in Gilbert are important to succeed in the military.
“I learned from my dad to do whatever it takes to get the job, and to work hard but have fun while I am at it,” said Hoy. “There is a lot required of you when you are a sailor. It’s important to give it your all and really do your best, however, it’s also important that you have a good time while you are doing it.”
USS Constitution is the U.S. Navy’s oldest commissioned warship, and the crew is hand-picked to promote naval history and maritime heritage while raising awareness of the importance of a sustained naval presence.
The ship earned the nickname Old Ironsides during the War of 1812 after British cannonballs were seen bouncing off the ship’s wooden hull. USS Constitution was undefeated in battle and captured or destroyed 33 enemy vessels.
With 90 percent 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.
“Our mission remains timeless – to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”
As a member of the Navy, Hoy is part of a world-class organization focused on maintaining maritime dominance, strengthening partnerships, increasing competitive warfighting capabilities and sustaining combat-ready forces in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy protects freedom of the seas and trade and maintains a forward presence which deters adversaries,” said Hoy. “It’s interesting to see that is where the USS Constitution started and how we are still performing the same operations today.”
As Hoy and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“I didn’t get to know my grandfathers since they passed away when I was young, so my service is a way of connecting with them,” said Hoy. “Serving in the Navy also makes me feel like I am doing something meaningful with my life.”
Hoy is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my parents and family for being supportive in my decision to join the Navy and my cousin, Robby, who was also a sailor and a resource to me when I enlisted,” added Hoy.
Megan Brown is with the Navy Office of Community Outreach