Darlington native serves Navy in Greece

Petty Officer 2nd Class Calvin Thomas Jr. joined the Navy five years ago. Today, Thomas is a Retail Services Specialist. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Delaney S. Jensen

SOUDA BAY, GREECE – Darlington, South Carolina native serves the U.S. Navy at Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella, Souda Bay.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Calvin Thomas Jr. joined the Navy five years ago. Today Thomas is a Retail Services Specialist.
“I joined the Navy to start a new career and see the world,” said Thomas. “My first command was the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy out of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. Then I came here, so I went island to island. You could say I really enjoy the island life.”
These lessons have helped Thomas while serving at Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella, Souda Bay.
“My favorite thing is customer service, I love talking with customers,” said Thomas. “I have always been a people person, so just interacting with customers makes me happy.”
NSA Souda Bay operates and sustains facilities and services dedicated to combat readiness and the security of ships, aircraft, detachments and personnel. Their presence and primary mission is dedicated to taking care of the fleet and airborne operations in this strategically critical area of the world, and to building a new spirit of cooperation with our Greek Allies.
“My job is to process regular mail and registered mail and provide great customer service,” said Thomas. “We also support the ships that come in. My job is to get the mail that comes in, sort it and bring it to the ship. Coming from a ship myself, I know how it feels to be waiting for packages and how long it can take for people to receive items they want or need. It makes me feel good to be on the opposite end and to be able to get our sailors the packages they have been waiting for.”
There are many accomplishments that come with military service, and Thomas is most proud of being nominated for Sailor of the Quarter.
“Recently, I was nominated for Sailor of the Quarter and got to go to the board for it,” said Thomas. “Just being nominated was a real honor for me and it made me feel as though my command really saw and took note of the work I have been doing. That was a great moment for me.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Thomas, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“Currently I am working on my Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice.” added Thomas. “My overall goal is to get my degree and stay in the Navy for 20 years. After that, when I retire from the Navy, I want to start working for the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS).”

Author: Stephan Drew

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