VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – Petty Officer 2nd Class Alex Stout, a native of West Point, Virginia, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 11, which operates the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet.
“I worked as a landscaper for a year after high school before enlisting,” said Stout. “That taught me initiative and the importance of quality over quantity. Taking pride in what I do is very important to me.”
Stout joined the Navy four years ago. Today, Stout serves as an aviation electrician’s mate.
“I joined the Navy to learn discipline and responsibility,” said Stout. “I also joined to carve my own path, as nobody in my immediate family has ever served.”
The Super Hornet is one of the most advanced aircraft in the world, according to Navy officials. The aircraft take off from and land aboard Navy aircraft carriers at sea and are capable of conducting air-to-air combat as well as striking targets on land.
Navy aircraft carriers are designed for a 50-year service life. When the air wing is embarked, the ship carries more than 70 attack fighter jets, helicopters and other aircraft, all of which take off from and land aboard the carrier at sea. With more than 5,000 sailors serving aboard, the aircraft carrier is a self-contained mobile airport.
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.
Stout serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”
Stout has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is making E-5 in three years, ahead of schedule,” said Stout. “I also take pride in my junior sailors using the advice and guidance I have given them to earn their qualifications to succeed and advance in their careers.”
Stout can take pride in serving America through military service.
Stout is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“My father pushed me to join the military,” said Stout. “I told him I didn’t know what to do with my life and he said join the military. I wouldn’t have done it without someone giving me that kick, so I am forever grateful to him.”
“I want to be selected as Sailor of the Year,” added Stout.”That means I have done all I can do for this command and puts me in some great company. I want to be a part of that.”