Under The Sea, Bayville Native Supports Navy Submarine Tradition

KINGS BAY, GA — Almost a year after joining the U.S. Navy, a Bayville native is supporting a 123-year tradition of service under the sea.

Seaman Apprentice Devin Bryant currently serves as a missile technician with Trident Training Facility Kings Bay, according to a release from the Navy Office of Community Outreach.

“I joined the Navy as a means of bettering myself,” said Bryant. "I wanted to provide for a better future for my family."

Bryant grew up in Bayville and graduated from Central Regional High School in 2018. He said that lessons he learned growing up helped him in his Navy career.

“I’ve learned resilience because growing up in life was kind of hard, but my family made it easier than I thought it would be,” said Bryant.

Known as America’s “Apex Predators,” the Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technically-advanced vessels.

“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.”

Strategic deterrence is the Nation’s ultimate insurance program, according to Navy officials. As a member of the submarine force, Bryant is part of a rich history of the U.S. Navy’s most versatile weapons platform, capable of taking the fight to the enemy in the defense of America and its allies.

Serving in the Navy means Bryant is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“In terms of nuclear defense and deterrence, there are powers that have the means to cause harm to the world, and we've always been a symbol of protecting our nation and life in general,” said Bryant.

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.

“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is getting to interact with a lot of people from different cultures and backgrounds,” said Bryant. "It's taught me that you should never judge a book by its cover. Everyone has a heart, and that should always be respected."

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

“Serving in the Navy is my duty to my country," said Bryant. "It gives me pride in getting to wear this uniform."

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

“I would like to thank my dad,” said Bryant. "He's had a tough life and always wanted something better for me. College wasn't an option, so the Navy was the best choice for me."

“Honestly, it's been the best choice I've ever made because I now have a future that I can see is bright,” added Bryant.