MAYPORT, FL – Petty Officer 2nd Class Adrian Garnett, a native of Indianapolis, Indiana, serves in the U.S. Navy, assigned to Unmanned Patrol Squadron 19 (VUP-19), the Navy’s first unmanned patrol and reconnaissance squadron.
Garnett graduated from Pike High School in 2008.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Indianapolis.
“Growing up in Indy taught me that there is no time or place to complain about the weather or workload; you just have to lace up your boots and get straight to it,” Garnett said. “I’m used to being around different people, cultures, and constantly moving. I learned to navigate different environments and connect with folks from all walks of life. Being from my city prepares you to talk to anyone and to rely on a team. Various obstacles may be thrown my way on the daily, from long hours of duty to running across flight lines or climbing on top of numerous aircraft, but no matter the challenge, I get through it and always remember my true Hoosier grit.”
Garnett joined the Navy five years ago. Today, Garnett serves as an aviation electronics technician.
“My inspiration to join the Navy came from my family and the great support system we have,” Garnett said. “The mentality of wanting to make my kids proud gave me the ultimate push I needed to join.”
Members of VUP-19 support the “Big Red” mission, a historical nod to the command’s role in the Korean War. In 1951, during night interdiction missions, the squadron would drop red night illumination flares to support allied air and ground units.
Today, more than 500 Sailors serve at VUP-19. Members of the squadron maintain and launch the MQ-4C Triton aircraft to provide persistent Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance, distributing valuable and time-critical intelligence to combatant and fleet commanders.
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.
Garnett has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is graduating from boot camp while being over 30 years old and after numerous attempts at different career paths,” Garnett said. “Recently, I am proud of being promoted to petty officer 2nd class.”
Garnett serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Serving in the Navy means growth, gratitude and grit,” Garnett said. “It is all about looking back to where it all began, where I came from, and ultimately knowing I’m making my family and friends proud every single day. It’s an incredible feeling to know what I do in the Navy is not just a job; it’s service to my country, and I am proud of knowing I am making a real difference.”
Garnett is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my wife, Saleetra, and my godmother, Karen,” Garnett added. “They have been the motivating force behind me making a change to pursue a career in the military.”
Garnett plans to make the most of his career in the Navy and further his knowledge and education.
“I am now enrolled in Embry-Riddle to earn my associate’s degree in the unmanned aircraft vehicle program,” Garnett said.
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. More information is available here: https://www.navy.mil/navy-250/.
By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Sean Furey, Navy Office of Community Outreach.
