Apopka native serves the US Navy in the nation's capital

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Petty Officer 1st Class Dagen Taylor, a native of Apopka, is currently stationed in the nation’s capital serving with U.S. Naval District Washington.

Taylor attended Lake Brantley High School and graduated in 2003. Today, he uses skills and values similar to those learned in Apopka.

“I learned southern hospitality during my time growing up in Florida,” said Taylor. "Respect for elders was taught, and that carried over with me into the military.".

With the nation’s capital at its heart, the region encompasses more than 4,000 square miles, including the District of Columbia; the Maryland counties of Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Carroll, Charles, Frederick, Howard, Montgomery, Prince Georges, St. Mary’s, The City of Baltimore and Bloodsworth Island; and Virginia counties of Arlington, Caroline, Fairfax, Fauquier, King George, Loudoun, Prince William, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Westmoreland.

Naval District Washington is the regional provider of common operating support to naval installations within a 100-mile radius of the Pentagon. Services provided include public affairs, public works, public safety, community support, human resources, information technology, morale, welfare and recreation, supply, air and port operations, ceremonial support and environmental and safety.

 

Serving in the Navy means Taylor 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.

“We need a Navy to protect the country, and we also need people to serve who want to do better in life serving a calling higher than themselves,” said Taylor.

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.

Taylor and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.

“I haven't reached my ultimate goal yet,” said Taylor. "I'm trying to make chief. Thanks to tuition assistance and good mentors, I completed my associate degree, and now I'm trying to finish up my bachelor's."

As Taylor 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.“I'm trying to serve as an example for my family,” added Taylor. "I've served in Japan, Greece and Bahrain. I've seen a lot of the world."