Photo By Cmdr. Cheryl Collins | Yeoman 1st Class Latonya Solomon, a native of Concord, North Carolina, stands outside...... read more read more
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CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – Yeoman 1st Class Latonya Solomon, a native of Concord, North Carolina, serves full-time as a Sailor in the U.S. Navy Reserve and is assigned to Navy Reserve Center Corpus Christi in Texas.
A 1999 graduate of Concord High School, Solomon credits her hometown for instilling toughness, resilience, and adaptability—qualities that have been instrumental throughout her 19 years in the Navy.
“I have learned toughness, resiliency, and the ability to adapt in all circumstances,” Solomon said. “Growing up, I also learned that community is important no matter where you go. Find your place, work hard, and excel.”
Solomon joined the Navy to create a better life for her son, a decision that has profoundly influenced her family.
“My son inspired me to join the Navy,” Solomon said. “I wanted to provide a better life for him. Now, he’s a Marine Corps sergeant, and I couldn’t be prouder of the man he’s become.”
Vice Adm. Nancy Lacore, Chief of the Naval Reserve and Commander, Navy Reserve Force, emphasized the important contributions of Reserve Sailors like Solomon in ensuring mission readiness:
“Sailors [like Solomon] exemplify the dedication and professionalism that define the Navy Reserve,” Lacore said.
Solomon takes pride in her ongoing service and the milestones she has achieved along the way.
“Simply being able to reach a Navy anniversary is a proud accomplishment,” Solomon said. “It takes consistent work and dedication to stay fit and ready for full duty, and that means a lot to me.”
For Solomon, serving in the Navy also represents a sense of security and belonging.
“Serving in the Navy means having a sense of safety in today’s world,” Solomon said. “It’s incredible to be part of an organization that is everywhere and connects me with professionals from all over the globe.”
As she reflects on her journey, Solomon is grateful for the support of her husband, Chris, who has been by her side for 17 years, including 13 years of marriage.
“I’d like to thank my husband for sharing this journey with me,” Solomon said.
While Solomon has yet to serve aboard a ship, her time at Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activity (SIMA) Ingleside stands out as a highlight of her career.
“I worked on mine countermeasures and mine hunter ships in the Navy,” Solomon said. “It was an amazing experience.”
Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations, highlighted the importance of Sailors like Solomon in maintaining the Navy's global presence and readiness:
“Our Sailors are the backbone of our Navy's strength,” Franchetti said. “Their dedication and service ensure we remain ready to meet any challenge worldwide.”
Solomon’s story is a testament to the resilience, hard work, and community spirit that define the Navy Reserve.
| Date Taken: | 11.27.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 12.14.2024 17:28 |
| Story ID: | 486954 |
| Location: | CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS, US |
| Hometown: | CONCORD, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 40 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Concord Sailor Balances Duty, Family, and Resilience, by Iain Page, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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