Ensign John Walker, a native of Daphne, is currently serving in the U.S. Navy as an informational personnel officer at the Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic (NCTAMS LANT).

Walker graduated from Daphne High School in 2014 and earned a degree in economics from the United States Naval Academy in 2023. In a news release, he attributed his success in the Navy to the values instilled in him during his upbringing in Daphne.

"Growing up, I learned the importance of friendliness, empathy and hard work," Walker said in the release. "Friendliness is important for keeping a positive attitude even when the workload is really heavy. Empathy is important because it makes you a more entrusted leader and hard work is important because it is needed to accomplish the mission."

He joined the Navy five years and nine months ago, motivated by his family's military background and encouragement from recruiters.

"My grandpa was a Marine in the Korean War and that inspired me to join the Navy," Walker said. "A recruiter also came to my school and the next thing I knew I was in the Military Entrance Processing Station starting the process to join."

At NCTAMS LANT, Walker plays a crucial role in operating and defending resilient computer telecommunications systems, which are vital for providing information superiority for global maritime and joint forces. With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and internet connectivity relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented individuals from across the nation.

The Navy operates around the world and around the clock to promote the nation's prosperity and security.

"We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day," said Admiral Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations. "Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs."

Walker's military service has provided numerous opportunities for achievement.

"My proudest accomplishment is being accepted and completing four years at the Naval Academy," Walker said. "The curriculum coupled with the obligations students have at the Naval Academy was certainly not a cakewalk but it made graduation that much more of a personal accomplishment."

In his role, Walker is responsible for the people and equipment that fall under his cognizance as well as his peers.

"Serving in the Navy means being responsible for the people and equipment that fall under my cognizance as well as my peers," Walker said.

Walker is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

"I want to thank my leading chief petty officer from USS Boise, Dennis Medina because I would not have pursed a commission if not for him," Walker said. "I also want to thank my friends that I've met along the way who I still keep in touch with."