January 15, 2025

An Ottawa native and a 2020 graduate of West Franklin High School is one of more than five thousand sailors serving aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. It’s a self contained mobile airport that is equipped with a full flight deck and more than 60 aircraft, including attack fighter jets and helicopters. Aircraft carriers are one of the largest warships in the world. Petty Officer 3rd Class Levi Thompson was inspired to join the Navy because his brother joined the army as a mechanic. He says his hometown taught him to be respectful , even in negative situations and his brother has always been his role model. He says the Navy is important to national security because it provides security and safety to the people who can’t protect themselves. They do it by protecting our seas from foreign invaders and anyone who would want to do harm to our citizens. Thompson says his proudest moment was being stationed in Poland and working with the Polish Army, seeing how they handle security in a different way. He adds that serving in the Navy allows him to see the world and serve the country at the same time. Thank you Petty Officer Thompson for your service.