Grafton native returns to Ohio for Columbus Navy Week

U.S. Navy sailors from across the fleet headed to Ohio for Columbus Navy Week, Aug. 18-24, to volunteer in the community and discuss why the Navy matters to the heart of the Buckeye State. While many of the sailors are from all over the country, this Navy Week will carry special meaning for visiting sailors from the state, including Grafton native Lt. Leia Peffer, a 2016 graduate of Midview High School. "Grafton is a small town, and that led to me wanting something more, which is why I decided to join the Navy," Peffer said. "It's a small town with limited resources, so I had to find ways to make myself competitive. I also learned growing up that you can achieve anything you put effort toward." Peffer, who joined the Navy four years ago, is assigned to Navy Meteorology and Oceanography, or METOC Command, headquartered at the Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. "I joined the Navy for a challenge and an adventure," Peffer said. "The Navy offered the opportunity to travel the world via ship, which was something different since air travel is something anyone can do on a daily basis." Peffer is part of the first Navy Week to be hosted entirely in Columbus. Navy Weeks are a series of outreach events coordinated by the Navy Office of Community Outreach designed to give Americans an opportunity to learn about the Navy, its people, and its importance to national security and prosperity. "Participating in this Navy Week is important to me as a naval officer in the meteorology and oceanography community because it provides an opportunity to showcase how our expertise supports fleet operations worldwide," Peffer said. "It's an honor to represent the Navy's scientific and operational capabilities, and to connect with the public about how we apply data and technology to support decision-makers and warfighters every day." Today, Peffer serves as a METOC officer. "I manage Naval Meteorology and Oceanography assets around the world," Peffer said. "I work directly with the community's admiral and provide her with the most up-to-date operational information." Peffer has had many opportunities to excel in the Navy and sees military service as more than just a job – it represents a chance to become a better person and make a difference in the lives of others. "My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is knowing that I've contributed to something greater than myself," Peffer said. "Whether through leading sailors or supporting fleet operations, I take pride in knowing that my work directly impacts mission success and the safety of others. Being part of a team with a shared purpose — serving our nation — has been the most meaningful and rewarding aspect of my career." Peffer is grateful for the Grafton community and for those who helped make a Navy career possible. "I'd like to thank my mom and dad, Lynne and Greg, for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout my journey in the Navy," added Peffer. "Their love and guidance have meant everything to me. I also want to give a shoutout to my brother, Jason, and my sister, Quinnen. Thank you both for always having my back and cheering me on, no matter where the Navy takes me. I'm proud to represent our family and carry your support with me every step of the way." Since 2005, the Navy Week program has served as the Navy's flagship outreach effort into areas of the country without a significant Navy presence, providing the public a firsthand look at why the Navy matters to cities like Columbus. "For 250 years, the U.S. Navy has ensured the security and prosperity of our nation by keeping global trade routes safe and deterring threats around the world," said Cmdr. Julie Holland, director of the Navy Office of Community Outreach. "Columbus, with its rich history, thriving innovation sector, and passionate sports culture, is the perfect place to showcase America's Navy. Navy Week allows communities that may not see the fleet every day to connect with the sailors who operate around the clock, from the sea floor to cyberspace. We're excited to bring this experience to Columbus and highlight the Navy's vital role in protecting our way of life." While in Columbus, sailors participated in community service projects and engage with kids in the area at youth programs and schools. Sailors were scheduled to meet with the public at events around the city throughout the week, such as Tribute Tuesday's 90s Rap at Bicentennial Park, Navy Night with the Columbus Clippers, the Age-Group CrossFit Games at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, CAP City Festivals, An Evening with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels at National Veterans Memorial and Museum and the Columbus Air Show, featuring the Blue Angels. The U.S. Navy Fleet Forces Band was to perform live at venues across the city, bringing Navy pride and energy to Columbus residents.