NORFOLK, Va. — Service members from the Hampton Roads area serve around the globe. Today we're highlighting the service of a U.S. Navy sailor from Norfolk.
Petty Officer 3rd Class James Barclift is a 2012 graduate of Norfolk’s Maury High School and is currently assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, which operates the F/A-18 Super Hornet.
Barclift joined the Navy in 2020 and serves as an Aviation Machinist’s Mate, which is an aircraft engine mechanic.
VFA-143, also known as the Pukin' Dogs, is based in Virginia Beach at Naval Air Station Oceana and currently attached to the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) and Carrier Air Wing One, which is currently at its homeport of Naval Station Norfolk, where it's been since being updated in December 2023.
Barclift is a native of Norfolk, Virginia, who joined the Navy to make a life for himself that could provide stability for his family.
“I'd like to thank my brother, Tracy Barclift, who is serving as an officer in the Army,” added Barclift. "I appreciate him for giving me the extra push I needed to succeed in basic training. I would also like to thank my wife, Charria, for agreeing with my decision to join the Navy."
