WHILE assigned to Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Miami, a shining sailor has been awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, recognised as recruiter of the month, recruiter of the quarter, and received multiple accolades that attest to his commitment and dedication to moulding tomorrow’s Navy.

“There is no better feeling than seeing an applicant transition from future sailor to sailor,” Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Oneil James said. “Knowing you were part of changing and impacting their life, and the gratitude they express is beyond humbling.”

James is from Ocho Rios, Jamaica. He was recruited out of Port St Lucie, Florida, just over eight years ago as a hospital corpsman and is currently assigned to NTAG Miami.

James always aspired to protect and serve. He had an initial interest in law enforcement; however, after learning about the Navy, he found his true calling and enlisted. When asked why he chose to join the Navy, without skipping a beat, James replied, “To be a part of something greater than myself.”

Prior to becoming a recruiter and assigned to Navy Recruiting Station Lake Worth, he was stationed at Naval Hospital Jacksonville and subsequently, the medical department aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship, USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). While assigned, he earned the Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist qualification.

James says he pursued recruiting duty because he genuinely enjoys helping people.

“The Navy has provided me and my children stability and the ability to live a great life. For that I am thankful, and I want to share that with as many people that will listen,” James said.

James started his recruiting career 15 months ago and said he sees his assignment as an esteemed opportunity to be entrusted to man the fleet with the best and brightest sailors. He has embraced that privileged responsibility, welcoming the challenges and achievements alike.

According to James, he finds recruiting so unique because he can have a conversation with someone who has no idea what the Navy is, or perhaps they are uncertain what to do next with their life, and then they find themselves answering their own call to serve and wanting to join the very next day. He finds it rewarding to connect others with the same life and career opportunities the Navy has provided him and his family.

James spends his off-duty hours immersed in giving back to the community. He volunteers with the Boys and Girls Club of West Palm Beach, the USS Iwo Jima Sea Cadets, Haverhill Youth Soccer Club, and as the assistant football coach at Wellington High School.

His goals are to complete his bachelor’s degree, continue advancing along his enlisted career path, and serve a full 20-year career in the Navy.