Fort Lauderdale Native Serves at Naval Submarine Base

By Cmdr. Anthony Falvo, Navy Office of Community Outreach

Petty Officer 2nd Class Courtnay Outlaw, a native of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, serves the U.S. Navy at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay. Outlaw, a 2008 Plantation High School graduate, joined the Navy 15 years ago.

“My mom really wanted me to join the military,” said Outlaw. “She wanted to join the military as a younger woman but couldn’t since she wasn’t a citizen.”

Skills and values similar to those found in Fort Lauderdale are important to succeed in the military.

“I saw many of my friends and other people just doing the same thing day after day,” said Outlaw. “I wanted to get away, see the world and broaden my horizons.”

With 90 percent 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 trained sailors and a strong Navy.

"Our mission remains timeless - to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level," said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. "This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”

As Outlaw and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“I liken the Navy to seeing a cop on the side of the road,” said Outlaw. “You wouldn't just speed past the cop. If you knew the U.S. had a Navy that could keep you in check, you’re less likely to do bad things. We’re really there to provide deterrence.”

As Outlaw and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“It’s a sense of pride to be able to serve,” said Outlaw. “It’s nice to go anywhere and be thanked for your service. Some days can be mundate but overall it gives you a sense of pride.”

Outlaw is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I’m especially thankful for two of my Navy mentors, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Michael Sanders and Senior Chief Master-at-Arms Howard Dixon,” added Outlaw. “I can contact them at any time, and they’ll always be ready to go above and beyond for me. I wouldn’t have stayed in for this long without them.”