NORFOLK, Va.- Petty Officer 3rd Class Nadar Baker, a native of Virginia Beach, Virginia, serves under the sea aboard USS Newport News to ensure Americans’ safety.
Baker graduated from Upper Darby High School in 2023.
“I learned growing up to put 100% into everything I do and to take my time with things,” Baker said. “If you don’t rush and take your time, everything will always work out.”
Baker joined the Navy three years ago.
“My dad was in the Navy,” Baker said. “I joined the Navy to follow in his footsteps and to do better than he did.”
Today, Baker serves as an information systems technician (network) aboard a fast-attack submarine (SSN) homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.
Fast-attack submarines, like Newport News, are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and deliver Navy SEALs; conduct intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare. The Virginia-class SSN is the most advanced submarine in the world today. It combines stealth and payload capability to meet Combatant Commanders’ demands in this era of strategic competition.
Strategic deterrence is the nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Baker serves aboard a platform capable of bringing the fight to enemies in defense of America and its allies.
Baker has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service. “I am most proud of earning my submarine warfare qualification because it allows me to help out the command more,” Baker said. “It also makes us feel more like a team.”
This year, the Navy is commemorating its contribution to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years, the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity.
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.
“Serving means family to me,” Baker said. “My dad was in the Navy, and my brother was in the Marines. So, for me, it also means continuing a legacy of family service.”
Baker is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my parents, Nadar and Asia Baker,” Baker added. “I also want to thank my older brother, Vincent, for helping me navigate the military lifestyle.”
Story by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Julia A. Melzer, Navy Office of Community Outreach