By Stephanie Fox
Navy Office of Community Outreach
Special to Texas Metro News
NAPLES, Italy – A Dallas, Texas, native is serving at Commander, Task Force 69.
Lt. Anthony Webb is a 2003 David W. Carter High School graduate and a 2015 Columbia Southern University graduate. Today, Webb serves as a logistics officer.
“Logistics officers work in supply chain management,” said Webb.
Webb joined the Navy 17 years ago for the opportunities the military offers.
“I always wanted to be on submarines and see the world,” Webb said.
According to Webb, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Dallas.
“Growing up, I learned that Texas prepares you for almost every obstacle,” said Webb. “More importantly, I learned that attitude plus aptitude equals achievement, so I maintain a positive ‘can do’ attitude.”
According to Navy officials, Commander, Task Force 69 is responsible for submarine warfare operations in the United States European Command and the United States Africa Command Areas of Responsibility. Specifically, Task Force 69 is composed of attack submarines and guided missile submarines capable of destroying enemy surface ships and submarines.
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
According to Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday, four priorities will focus efforts on sailors, readiness, capabilities and capacity.
“For 245 years, in both calm and rough waters, our Navy has stood the watch to protect the homeland, preserve freedom of the seas, and defend our way of life,” said Gilday. “The decisions and investments we make this decade will set the maritime balance of power for the rest of this century. We can accept nothing less than success.”
Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Webb is most proud of advancing in rank.
“My biggest accomplishment is my selection to chief,” said Webb.
“Our sailors remain the true source of our naval power,” said Gilday. “Mission one for every sailor remains a ready Navy, a Navy ready to compete today and a Navy ready to compete tomorrow. Together we will deliver the naval power the nation needs.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Webb, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a tradition providing the Navy the nation needs.
“Serving the Navy means everything to me,” added Webb. “Since I was 18-years-old the Navy has been all I’ve known. I learned it, lived it and loved it. More importantly, the Navy taught me to love life, love people and love God.”
