SAN DIEGO, CA – Petty Officer 3rd Class Colin Derby, a native of Norfolk, Virginia, serves aboard the U.S. Navy warship, USS Boxer, homeported in San Diego, California.
Derby, a 2020 Billy Ryan High School graduate, joined the Navy two years ago.
Skills and values learned in the Navy are similar to those found in Norfolk.
“I learned to expect the unexpected in Norfolk,” said Derby. “You have to be prepared for anything and ready to adapt to the moment.”
Boxer’s crew is made up of approximately 1,200 crewmembers and can accommodate up to 1,800 Marines. Amphibious assault ships transfer Marines, equipment and supplies and can support helicopters or other aircraft.
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, Derby 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.
“We are everywhere,” said Derby. “Our Navy is the greatest fighting force, with bases all around the world and ready to answer the nation’s call.”
Derby has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I’m most proud of repairing our engineering plant,” said Derby. “After about two years of hard work in the engineering plant, we were able to get our ship to operate at maximum speed.”
As Derby and other sailors continue to perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“I feel like I am contributing to the greater good,” said Derby. “We keep the ship operational so we can accomplish any mission.”
Derby is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my lead petty officer, Petty Officer 1st Class Brandon Doxtator,” added Derby. “He has been a great leader, teaching me to work beyond my rank, and was supportive every step of the way.”
Story by Lt. Cmdr. Ryan Murtha, Navy Office of Community Outreach