By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tristan Cookson, Navy Office of Community Outreach
Special to the Reporter
Lt. Cmdr. Julia Baily, a native of Mercer Island, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30.
Baily graduated from Mercer Island High School in 2010, joined the Navy 10 years ago and today serves as a pilot
“I joined the Navy because I was initially recruited to join the Naval Academy for tennis,” said Baily. “I also had a lot of family members from aunts, uncles, cousins and my grandfather who served, and I had a deep sense of pride in the country.”
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Mercer Island.
“Growing up, I was afforded a lot of opportunities academically and athletically, and these taught me discipline and hard work,” said Baily. “I also learned that actions have both positive and negative consequences.”
According to Navy officials, members of VRM-30 fly and maintain the CMV-22B Osprey, a vertical takeoff and landing tilt-rotor aircraft. VRM aircraft have increased operational range, faster cargo loading and unloading, increased survivability and enhanced communications compared to the C-2A Greyhound.
With 90% 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 recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Baily serves a Navy that operates forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”
Baily has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is responding to hurricane damage by providing disaster relief,” said Baily. “We flew more than 70 hours and provided assistance to people who truly needed it. Seeing the faces of people who are in desperate need and thank you is something that I truly will never forget.”
Baily can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy is an experience unlike anything else,” said Baily. “Deployment is the absolute pinnacle and goal. It is a point where skills and readiness are tested in real-world dynamic scenarios and the ultimate validation of my dedication, training, and time away from family and loved ones.”
Baily is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my family for being my rock since day one,” added Baily. “I also want to thank all of the educators in the Mercer Island school district. While there are too many to fully list my appreciation for, some I would like to highlight are: Parker Bixby, Dave Bentley, Jan Sayres, Mr. Dino and Mr. Twombley (AKA the Power Duo), Mindy Blakeslee and Carol Gullstad, Susan Valencia, Trista Bamer and Donna Johnson. I also would not have made it this far without all of the families in the ‘Dinner Club.’ You know who you are. Your mentorship has shaped me into who I am today and the amazing career in the Navy I have had. I would be remiss without mentioning my husband, Noah, for his constant love and support.”
