Jamaican sailor takes on the high seas aboard US warship

A journey that began in Kingston has taken Shamire Boyd to the deck of one of the world’s most powerful naval vessels.

The sailor, who graduated from Excelsior High School in 2010, is serving in the US Navy aboard the USS Harry S. Truman, a massive aircraft carrier operating out of Norfolk, Virginia. He says the experiences and challenges that shaped his early life helped prepare him for the discipline, responsibility and determination required in the navy.

“Growing up, I worked a lot of jobs,” Boyd said. “Life was rough, which taught me that you’ve got to reach for your goals. I got my first job when I was 17. I came to the US when I was 20 and worked in New York, then I joined the navy when I was 30. That taught me to work hard to achieve my goals.”

Boyd joined the navy three years ago and now serves as a logistics specialist, playing a key role in supporting the operations of the aircraft carrier and its thousands of sailors.

For Boyd, joining the navy was about creating new opportunities, pursuing his interests and building a better future for his family.

“I joined the navy to better my life and make a future for my family,” Boyd said. “When I was young, I was the type of guy who liked to be out on planes. I wasn’t going to get to do what I wanted to do in the air force, so I looked into the navy because the navy also has aircraft. I always wanted to see what it’s like being out in the water.”

The USS Harry S. Truman is among the largest warships ever built, stretching 1,092 feet long — longer than three football fields — and weighing more than 100,000 tons. The ship is home to more than 5,000 sailors and serves as a mobile base capable of carrying out missions around the world.

As Boyd, a third-class petty officer, continues his military career, he is already making his mark through leadership and service.

“I’m most proud of being recognised for my hard work and determination,” said Boyd said. “I’m also proud of being a supervisor of my division and helping other sailors improve on their jobs. I’m in charge of four sailors. Being a leader is something I have always wanted to be.”

Boyd said his greatest reward comes from knowing his efforts are creating a brighter future for his loved ones.

“Serving in the navy means everything to me,” Boyd said. “It gives me a chance to better myself. It means that my family can have a better life and a better future for my kids.”

Boyd also credits the support of family and mentors who encouraged him throughout his journey.

“I want to thank my mom and my relatives for pushing me to become the man I am today,” Boyd said. “I want to thank my family also for supporting me through my deployment and being overseas in Spain. I also want to thank my best friend, Wayne. He was an older guy who took me under his wing when I was 15. He mentored me and pushed me to become the man I am today. He tells me every day how proud he is that I joined the military and of who I’ve become.”