FORT MEADE, Maryland – Seaman Apprentice Colin Lightner, a native of Washington Court House, is serving at Defense Information School (DINFOS), the premier communication learning institution, vital to the success of public affairs professionals across the Department of Defense, the United States government, and international partners.
Lightner attended Electronic Classroom of Tomorrow (ECOT) and graduated in 2017. Today, Lightner uses skills and values similar to those learned in Washington Court House.
“Growing up in Ohio, I learned the importance of hard work,” said Lightner. “I also learned the importance of respect and doing something with your life.”
These lessons continue to help Lightner while serving in the military.
For the last 55 years, DINFOS has trained communicators across the Department of Defense to help their organizations achieve strategic and operational goals through applied public affairs strategies and visual information products. Courses offered by DINFOS include Digital Multimedia, Joint Contingency Public Affairs, Broadcast Journalism, Graphic Design and more.
Serving in the Navy means Lightner is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy keeps trade routes open and the oceans safe for civilian and commercial use,” said Lightner. “We offer a show of force to other nations.”
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.
Lightner and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I’m proud of graduating boot camp,” said Lightner. “I was concerned with physical fitness, so I’m glad I was able to get through it the first time.”
As Lightner and other sailors continue to train and perform the missions they are tasked with, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Serving in the Navy means supporting the constitution, contributing to the country, and doing something important with my life,” added Lightner.
