MAYPORT – Airman Caden Jackson, a 2022 graduate of Oakleaf High, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Unmanned Patrol Squadron 19 (VUP-19), the Navy’s first unmanned patrol and reconnaissance squadron.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Oakleaf.

“Growing up, I learned to carry myself with confidence, and to apply a hard-working mentality to everything,” Jackson said. “I worked door-to-door sales for three years before I joined. That job taught me you have to be confident during every social interaction, and honestly, in every facet of life.”

Jackson joined the Navy nine months ago. Today, Jackson serves as an aviation electrician's mate.

“My mom inspired me to join,” Jackson said. “She retired as a hospital corpsman first class after 20 years of service. The biggest thing that motivated me was watching her always push to do her best. Seeing how hardworking she is inspired me to join; it was the direction I needed.”

Members of VUP-19 support the “Big Red” mission, a historical nod to the command's role in the Korean War. In 1951, during night interdiction missions, the squadron would drop red night illumination flares to support allied air and ground units.

Today, more than 500 Sailors serve at VUP-19. Members of the squadron maintain and launch the MQ-4C Triton aircraft to provide persistent Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, distributing valuable and time-critical intelligence to combatant and fleet commanders.

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.
Jackson has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“Considering my short time in the Navy, my proudest accomplishment is graduating from boot camp,” Jackson said. “I am also proud of creating better habits for myself.”

Jackson serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation's prosperity and security.
“Serving in the Navy means showing up every day knowing I am serving my country,” Jackson said. “It is one thing to go work a nine-to-five, but it's much better to feel you are working for a bigger purpose. I get to serve my country while making myself and my family proud.”

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

“I would like to thank my mom for inspiring me to serve,” Jackson added. “I would also like to thank my family for supporting me along the way.”

Jackson looks to make the most out of his career and further his knowledge and education.

“I plan on finishing a bachelor's in computer science while I am still in the Navy,” Jackson said.