BAYVILLE – Despite making up only 10% of the U.S. Navy’s personnel, Submariners play a critical role in carrying out one of the Defense Department’s most important missions: strategic deterrence.
Bayville native Seaman Apprentice Devin Bryant is one of the sailors supporting a 123-year tradition of service under the sea to help ensure Americans’ safety.
One year ago, Bryant joined the Navy and today serves as a missile technician with Trident Training Facility Kings Bay.
“I joined the Navy as a means of bettering myself,” said Bryant. “I wanted to provide for a better future for my family.”
Bryant attended Central Regional High School and graduated in 2018. He said the skills and values he’s learned in Bayville are similar to those required to succeed in the military, and helped him while serving in the Navy.
“I’ve learned resilience because growing up in life was kind of hard, but my family made it easier than I thought it would be,” said Bryant.
Known as America’s “Apex Predators,” the Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technologically-advanced vessels. These submarines are capable of conducting rapid defensive and offensive operations around the world, in furtherance of U.S. national security.
According to the Navy, there are three basic types of submarines: fast-attack submarines (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN) and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).
“Our mission remains timeless – to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”
Bryant is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“In terms of nuclear defense and deterrence, there are powers that have the means to cause harm to the world, and we’ve always been a symbol of protecting our nation and life in general,” Bryant said.
“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is getting to interact with a lot of people from different cultures and backgrounds,” Bryant said. “It’s taught me that you should never judge a book by its cover. Everyone has a heart, and that should always be respected.”
“Serving in the Navy is my duty to my country. It gives me pride in getting to wear this uniform,” he added.
Bryant said he is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my dad,” said Bryant. “He’s had a tough life and always wanted something better for me. College wasn’t an option, so the Navy was the best choice for me.”
“Honestly, it’s been the best choice I’ve ever made because I now have a future that I can see is bright,” Bryant said.
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