By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach
ARABIAN SEA – Petty Officer 3rd Class Kyle Durham, a native of Virginia Beach, Virginia, received the enlisted surface warfare specialist insignia during a ceremony held onboard USS James E. Williams, a guided missile destroyer, currently deployed in the Arabian Sea.
Durham, who has served in the Navy for two years, is a sonar technician responsible for the upkeep of 15 sonar systems and various oceanographic systems aboard the ship.
“I am genuinely fascinated by how sonar works and the way we run our warfare area,” Durham said.
James E. Williams is an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer named in honor of Chief Boatswain’s Mate James E. Williams, one of the Navy’s most highly decorated enlisted sailors. Guided-missile destroyers are multi-mission surface combatants capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and anti-surface warfare.
Durham, a 2017 graduate of Princess Anne High School, joined the Navy to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps. According to Durham, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Virginia Beach.
“I learned how to lead from an early age and inspire those around me to work, as well as being the first to get at whatever needs to get done,” Durham said.
Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Durham is most proud of earning his ESWS pin.
“It’s the culmination of all of my time on the ship so far, and it shows the aptitude of a sailor by their dedication to learn how the ship works together,” Durham added.
Serving in the Navy is a continuing tradition of military service for Durham, who has military ties with family members who have previously served. Durham is honored to carry on the family tradition.
“The majority of my family has all served,” Durham said. “My grandfather was a Master Chief Sonar Technician Surface, my father was a Special Operations Combat Medic, my uncles were a Senior Chief Personnel Specialist and Chief Air Traffic Controller, and my cousin, a Chief Master-At-Arms. My entire close family has served, and for me to be able to go to them and pull information or ask them for career advice, is a blessing.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Durham, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“Being able to say you’re in the Navy alone, is a swell of pride for me,” Durham said. “To me, it’s an honor to be able to make them proud and do what all of my family has done.”