SAN DIEGO – Hailing from Great Mills, Maryland, Petty Officer 3rd Class Nevyn Harris proudly serves on the USS Tripoli, a testament to the seamless transition of values and skills from his hometown to the expansive decks of the U.S. Navy’s amphibious assault carrier. A 2017 graduate of Great Mills High School, Harris’s journey into the Navy five years ago was fueled by a desire to set a positive example and make a substantial impact, both within and beyond the naval fleet.
Rooted in the principles of authenticity and steadfastness, Harris attributes his success in the Navy to the life lessons learned in Great Mills. “I learned in my hometown to stay true to myself, and to be who I am and not who people wanted me to be,” he shared, underlining the importance of personal integrity and the support of his family in his naval career.
As an aviation boatswain’s mate handling on the Tripoli, Harris plays a crucial role in the operations of one of the Navy’s key assets for power projection and support of Marine Air/Ground Task Forces. The USS Tripoli, operating out of San Diego, is integral to a range of operations from small-scale contingencies to major theater wars, underscoring the Navy’s commitment to maintaining a forward presence and ensuring the nation’s security and prosperity.
The importance of the crew aboard the Tripoli cannot be overstated, with Capt. Gary Harrington, the commanding officer, emphasizing the critical role of sailors like Harris. “The sailors who make up Team Tripoli really are the best the Navy has to offer,” Harrington stated, acknowledging the collective effort and dedication as the backbone of the ship’s and the Navy’s success.
Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations, highlighted the broader significance of the Navy’s mission, tying the security of global commerce and internet infrastructure to the diverse and talented individuals who choose to serve. “We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” Franchetti declared, pointing to the imperative of building a Navy that reflects the nation’s needs.
For Harris, the pride in service is deeply personal, noting that perseverance through challenges and contributing positively to the Navy and, by extension, the country, stands as his proudest accomplishment. “Serving in the Navy means I am giving a voice to the people that don’t have one and providing an opportunity to help them,” he said, encapsulating the essence of service beyond self.
The journey to and within the Navy is not one Harris walks alone. He extends gratitude to his mother, Shelita Lawrence, and his school counselor, Mr. BJ Dorthard, for their pivotal roles in guiding him towards naval service. Their encouragement and insight helped transform reluctance into a commitment to serving others and embodying the values instilled in him from a young age.
As the USS Tripoli continues its vital missions, Petty Officer 3rd Class Nevyn Harris’s story serves as a beacon of the Navy’s enduring values and the profound impact of service on individual lives and the nation’s prosperity.
