Dallas native serves aboard U.S. Navy’s newest amphibious assault ship

By Stephanie Fox, Navy Office of Community Outreach

SAN DIEGO. – Petty Officer 1st Class Jabrian Johnson, a native of Dallas, Texas, joined the Navy 11 years ago. Today, Johnson serves as a culinary specialist aboard USS Tripoli.

Growing up in Dallas, Johnson attended Skyline High School and graduated in 2008. Today, Johnson uses the same skills and values learned in Dallas to succeed in the military.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted assistance with my education and I knew the military could help with that,” said Johnson. “Currently, I am attending Vincent University studying marketing.”

“Growing up, I always enjoyed cooking, which has definitely paid off since I am currently working as a culinary specialist,” said Johnson. “I was also taught community, which has helped me as a sailor because when you are deployed the sailors you’re with become your family.”

These lessons have helped Johnson while serving in the Navy.

USS Tripoli incorporates key components to provide the fleet with a more aviation-centric platform. The design features an enlarged hangar deck, aviation maintenance facilities realignment and expansion, a significant increase in available stowage for parts and support equipment, and increased aviation fuel capacity.

“The sailors aboard this ship have been given an enormous task–get this ship ready,” said Capt. John Kiefaber, USS Tripoli’s executive officer. “They brought this ship to life in the midst of a pandemic and continue to operate it safely and effectively, rising to every occasion. I couldn’t be more proud.”

Serving in the Navy means Johnson is part of a world 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 contributes to national security because we stay aware of potential threats and are ready to take on anything that we may face in the future,” said Johnson.

With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.

According to Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday, four priorities will focus efforts on sailors, readiness, capabilities, and capacity.

“For 245 years, in both calm and rough waters, our Navy has stood the watch to protect the homeland, preserve freedom of the seas, and defend our way of life,” said Gilday. “The decisions and investments we make this decade will set the maritime balance of power for the rest of this century. We can accept nothing less than success.”

Johnson and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.

“My proudest naval accomplishment is being able to watch my sailors advance and reach their goals,” said Johnson.

As Johnson and other sailors continue to train and perform the missions they are tasked with, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“To me, serving in the Navy means honor, courageousness and selflessness,” added Johnson. “It’s not the easiest thing, but it’s rewarding. There are hard days, like any job, but I know I am contributing to something important.”

Posted 4 days ago by Navy Office Of Community Outreach