Airman Ifadara Ayoola, who has family residing in Lagos, Nigeria, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30.
Ayoola graduated from Homat Pivotal College in 2018. Ayoola is also currently working toward an associate degree in psychology through San Diego City College.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Lagos.
“The biggest difference between the United States and Nigeria is the structure,” said Ayoola. “Organization is important in the Navy because things can be disorganized but you need to be still able to make decisions, carry out tasks and stay calm regardless of how chaotic the environment might be.”
Ayoola joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Ayoola serves as an undesignated sailor.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself,” said Ayoola. “There’s something about the hierarchy and the setup in how the military works in general that makes me feel like I have something to gain from it. It’s not a feeling but more of an understanding, I believe I can gain something valuable from being in the Navy.”
Members of VRM 30 fly and maintain the CMV-22B Osprey, a vertical takeoff and landing tilt-rotor aircraft. VRM aircraft have increased operational range, faster cargo loading and unloading, increased survivability and enhanced communications compared to the C-2A Greyhound.
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.
“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”
Ayoola has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is getting closer to becoming a hospital corpsman,” said Ayoola. “I recently found out I’ll be a hospital corpsman and that I start ‘A’ School in March. It’s not easy or common to go from an undesignated sailor in aviation to something outside of aviation. I’m pretty excited about it because it’s something I wanted and really had to work hard at. Coming into the military, I knew the whole reason I joined was to become a medic. Now I can show that this is what I’m supposed to be doing.”
Ayoola serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“For me, serving in the Navy means liberation,” said Ayoola. “It’s ironic because the Navy’s very strict. I don’t get to wear what I want every day, but some people are in stricter conditions. It doesn’t make you feel like you’re free, but you’re developing habits that are good for you. Waking up early and having a routine are habits that are setting me up for success.”
Ayoola is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my mentor, Petty Officer 1st Class Chanelle ManzanoWieland,” added Ayoola. “She really helped me when I showed up to this command and she’s still helping me today.”
