Newport News Native supports Hospital Corps on front lines of U.S. Navy Coronavirus fight

Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Smith, a native of Newport News, Virginia, is playing a critical role in supporting the U.S. Navy’s efforts to maintain a healthy and ready fighting force in the face of the Coronavirus pandemic.

As a logistics specialist working at Naval Health Clinic Annapolis in Annapolis, Maryland, Smith supports the Hospital Corps in the health of sailors in the Annapolis area, and by extension, the readiness of the Navy’s operational ships and submarines on which they serve.

“The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic brought an invisible enemy to our shores and changed the way we operate as a Navy,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “The fight against this virus is a tough one, but our sailors are tougher. We must harden our Navy by continuing to focus on the health and safety of our forces and our families. The health and safety of our sailors and their families is, and must continue to be, our number one priority.”

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Smith as well as other sailors, efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who provide the Navy the nation needs.

“To be a logistics specialist at times like these is very rewarding because I know that the supplies I order and issue have a lasting impact bigger than myself,” Smith added.

“Growing up being a military brat, I learned to adapt and overcome very fast,” Smith said. “I think using that mentality will help me throughout this pandemic.”