FALLON– Every sailor’s story of naval service is unique. For Petty Officer 2nd Class Darren Cox II, this story has ties to Oakleaf, where skills and values learned there are foundational to success in the Navy.

“Growing up, my family and friends were very good role models for me,” Cox said. “They taught me from a very young age the importance of hard work and being relied on, trusted and how far it could get you.”

Cox graduated from Oakleaf High in 2015. He joined the Navy five years ago.

“I joined the Navy following in my family's footsteps,” Cox said. “I always knew I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself and give back.”

Today, Cox serves as a yeoman assigned to Fighter Squadron Composite Thirteen onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Fallon. The air station provides joint and allied nation rotational forces for the unique opportunity to train in realistic combat scenarios while employing every element of an air carrier wing. It is the only facility in the world with this ability. The aircraft stationed at NAS Fallon support aircraft carrier missions around the world.

NAS Fallon is host to 21 tenant commands, including the Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center (NAWDC). As the Navy’s premier tactical air warfare training center, NAWDC is home to multiple weapons training schools, including TOPGUN. In 1969, TOPGUN was introduced with the mission of reducing casualties of naval aviators sustained during the Vietnam War. Within a year, this goal was reached with the United States having one casualty for every 12 enemy deaths. Since then, TOPGUN has continued to train the finest naval aviators and has inspired two blockbuster movies, one released in 1986 and its sequel released in 2022.

Cox has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“I am very proud that I was named Junior Sailor of the Year in 2025,” Cox said. “I am also proud to have earned my EAWS qualification, which allows me to understand the ins and outs of the F-16.”

Cox serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security. This year, the Navy is commemorating its contribution to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years, the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity. More information is available here: navy.mil/navy-250.

“Serving in the Navy means to give back and to be there for those who need it most,” Cox said.

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

“I would like to thank my family and friends back home for always being there for me and for being my biggest supporters,” Cox said. “Having a family back home makes this job that much more important and meaningful.”