Those serving at The Information Warrior Training Command (IWTC) in San Diego believe in the importance of continued education, and their sailors are trained in areas they will need to execute information warfare throughout their military service.
One of those continuing the tradition of maritime superiority through information warfare is Lt. Darnell Harris, an intelligence officer responsible for overseeing the intelligence courses at the school.
Harris is a 1997 Nathan Hale High School and native of Milwaukee. According to Harris, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Milwaukee.
“My mom was a single parent, so I learned the importance of hard work,” said Harris.
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
Each year the CIWT domain trains approximately 20,000 students comprised of military members from all branches and Department of Defense civilians. Throughout the program, participants can take any of the 200 classes offered to prepare them for battle.
The CIWT domain along with all other Navy training commands are transforming and innovating their training programs through Ready, Relevant Learning (RRL), a pillar of Sailor 2025. Sailor 2025 is a program that uses modern personnel management and training systems to recruit, develop, and retain sailors for the future of the Navy. RRL delivers a modernized learning continuum that aligns training with fleet requirements and warfighter needs. The long-term vision of RRL is to take modernized training to the point of need in the fleet at the waterfront.
According to Admiral Mike Gilday, the Chief of Naval Operations, the focus of today’s Navy is squarely on warfighting, warfighters and the capabilities needed for the Navy of the future.
“I am confident we will maximize the Navy we have today while delivering the Navy that our nation will rely upon tomorrow,” said Gilday. “And we will do so with urgency. Our fleet will be a potent, formidable force that competes around the world every day, deterring those who would challenge us while reassuring our allies and partners.”
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. Harris is most proud of selection as the Navy’s Intelligence Officer of the Year in 2013.
“It was a significant achievement,” said Harris. “I started out enlisted in the Navy, so to earn that award after commissioning as an officer was a great feeling.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Harris, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“Serving in the Navy means that I have the opportunity to serve my country and make a positive difference,” added Harris.
Alvin Plexico
Tim Miller and United States Navy
