Jonesboro, AR – (Contributed) – Airman Markeveion Williams, a native of Jonesboro, serves aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer, currently operating out of San Diego, California.
Williams graduated from Jonesboro High School in 2022. According to Williams, the skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those he found in Jonesboro.
“I learned early on to always think positively and that the day will get better,” Williams said. “I try to bring that attitude and approach to work every day, and most of the time, it makes a difference.”
Williams joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Williams serves as an aviation boatswain’s mate (handling).
“I joined the Navy to get away from home, to meet new people from different places, and to see the world,” Williams said.
Boxer plays a crucial role in projecting power and maintaining presence for naval forces. It serves as the cornerstone of amphibious operations, capable of carrying Marines, their equipment, and aircraft to execute a wide range of missions, from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to full-scale amphibious assaults. This ship enables forces to rapidly deploy and sustain operations in littoral (near-shore) environments, providing a versatile platform for achieving strategic objectives across the globe.
Resembling a small aircraft carrier, Boxer’s crew is made up of approximately 1,200 officers and enlisted personnel and can accommodate up to 1,800 Marines.
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation, and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
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.
Williams has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment so far is getting my crash crewman qualification,” Williams said.
Williams serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Serving in the Navy means I have a lot of great people guiding me,” Williams said. “I am so grateful to be part of that team.”
Williams is also grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Knapp, who has taught me so much and has kept me on a straight path,” Williams said. “I also want to thank my mom, Nakeyia Davis, who encourages me to push on in my career and for always being available whenever I need some guidance. Most of all, I want to thank my wife, Sharlasha, for always supporting me and believing in me.”