From Freetown to the U.S. Navy: Here is Petty Officer Julius Tucker’s Journey of Service

When Petty Officer 3rd Class Julius Tucker walks the decks of the USS Delbert D. Black, he carries with him the resilience, determination, and values instilled in him growing up in Freetown, Sierra Leone.

Today, Tucker operates aboard one of America’s most advanced destroyers in Mayport, Florida, but his story begins thousands of miles away in West Africa.

Tucker graduated from Prince of Wales High School in 2009 before pursuing higher education in Ghana, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and human resources management from the Bluecrest College University in Accra in 2022. His decision to enlist in the U.S. Navy came just two years ago, fueled by curiosity, adventure, and a desire to serve.

“I joined the Navy because I wanted to explore the world. I am the first to join the military from my family. In Sierra Leone, I was part of a social club called the Paciphix Club and members were called sailors. When I came to the United States, my cousin said I should join the military and I said, ‘Ok, I want to join the Navy’” he said.

For Tucker, resilience is a life philosophy. “Growing up, I learned to be resilient and to take all opportunities as an advantage. Being resilient, you have to be resourceful and know what you’re doing. I know what I am here for in the Navy. I’m always striving to become a better person.”

That mindset has already propelled him to early achievements. One of his proudest moments was advancing from culinary specialist to Petty Officer. This, by extension, made him a Junior Sailor of the Quarter for the first quarter of fiscal year 2025.

“Making Petty Officer 3rd Class in ‘A’ school isn’t easy. For a culinary specialist, going from seaman to third class would normally have taken 30 months, but I did it in six months, from boot camp through ‘A’ school.”

A Bridge Between Sierra Leone and America

Tucker’s journey highlights the enduring ties between Sierra Leone and the United States of America, which are two maritime nations whose histories are deeply intertwined.

This year marks a historic milestone for the American Navy. It’s the 250th anniversary of the United States Navy. For two and a half centuries, the Navy has safeguarded global freedom, secured international commerce, and defended America’s prosperity.

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 trade travelling by sea and internet infrastructure depending on undersea cables, the Navy’s mission is as relevant today as it was in previous years.

“Serving in the Navy means being a better version of myself and protecting my country,” he said.

Stories like Tucker’s demonstrate how individuals from diverse backgrounds can find home in service, build careers, and contribute to global peace and security.

“ I want to thank my wife, Elvira, for always believing in me. I also want to thank my parents, my sister Josephine, and my dearest cousin, Elizabeth,” he shared.

As the Navy celebrates its 250th year, Tucker’s story is a reminder of the opportunities that service provides and the bonds it strengthens, not just within America but across the globe.