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WASHINGTON - Defense Intelligence Agency’s (DIA) Navy Element Chief Petty Officer’s Mess hosted a birthday celebration to mark the Navy's 240th birthday in the Tighe Auditorium Oct. 7.
In attendance were Commanding Officer Defense Intelligence Agency Navy Element Robert W. Witzleb, honored guest speaker Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (AW/NAC) Mike D. Stevens, and multi-service military personnel and DOD civilians.
The ceremony began with reflection on naval heritage and history from the DIA command master chief, Master Chief Intelligence Specialist (IDW/SW/AW) Anthony M. Hamilton. He highlighted the evolution of the Confederate navy to the acclaimed "World’s most powerful Navy" known today.
“The maritime strategy of today is grounded in security, stability and sea power,” said Hamilton. “World prosperity and security depend on the free use of the seas, and for 240 years the United States Navy has endeavored to make the world a better place. In the 21st century we strive to use maritime as a global force for good."
MCPON Stevens' special address to the Navy and DIA Joint service team highlighted the year’s birthday theme, Ready Then, Ready Now, Ready Always, with special focus on the importance embracing heritage while encouraging evolution.
“The Navy was roughly 208 years old when I joined,” said MCPON Stevens. “To celebrate 240 years, and have the privilege to serve during that period of time has been something that I cherish and always will. The generations of Sailors before laid out a legacy, and legacy is the lantern that lights the path for others to follow.”
He closed with a message to junior service members, charging them with responsibility of leading the force of tomorrow, and preparing them for the watch, they would one day relieve.
“For those Sailors that are relatively young in uniform today, it will be your duty to continue that legacy of excellence, and ensure our Navy is ready to operate at any time, conducting any mission in the future. I wonder as I look in the crowd, which one of you will be standing here where I am saying, I remember when the Navy was 240 years old.”
The Navy District Washington Honor Guard drill team executed a special performance, followed by the Navy Element honoring the tradition of the birthday cake-cutting ceremony, were MCPON, DIA's oldest and youngest Sailor, Capt. Bruce Stinnett and Intelligence Specialist Seaman Sean Howell participated.
“From the bottom of my and my wife Teresa’s heart, we thank you for your service, we care about you, and we appreciate your sacrifice for your Navy and your country, because if you didn’t then who would?” said Stevens.
DIA is a critical member of the Defense Intelligence Enterprise and has the unique role of ensuring DoD warfighters, defense planners and policymakers understand foreign military capabilities and operational environments so they can prevent and decisively win wars.
| Date Taken: | 10.07.2015 |
| Date Posted: | 10.07.2015 15:35 |
| Story ID: | 178363 |
| Location: | JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING, DC, US |
| Web Views: | 215 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, DIA celebrates 240th Navy birthday, by PO1 Jamica Johnson, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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