By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach

PERSIAN GULF - Lt. j.g. Shelby Ramirez, a native of Houston, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant during a ceremony held onboard USS James E. Williams, a guided missile destroyer, currently deployed in the Persian Gulf.

Ramirez, who has served in the Navy for four years, is a department head responsible for managing the maintenance and operation of the fire control system that allows the ship to fire missiles.

"My favorite part of my job is the variety," Ramirez said. "There is always something new and exciting to be learning or doing."

James E. Williams is an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer named in honor of Chief Boatswain's Mate James E. Williams, one of the Navy's most highly decorated enlisted sailors. Guided-missile destroyers are multi-mission surface combatants capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and anti-surface warfare.

Ramirez, a 2012 graduate of Ocean Springs High School and 2016 graduate of Vanderbilt University, knew she wanted to joined the Navy when she was in the fourth grade.

"When I was in fourth grade, my family took a trip to the United States Naval Academy and from that moment on, I knew I wanted to be in the Navy," Ramirez said.

Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community and career, Ramirez is most proud of being selected to be a department head.

"This selection means the Navy thinks I am ready to take on more responsibility and it is my next step on the path to command," Ramirez said.

Serving in the Navy is a continuing tradition of military service for Ramirez, who has military ties with family members who have previously served. Ramirez is honored to carry on the family tradition.

"My dad served in the Navy for 20 years and my younger brother currently serves in the Navy as a nuclear machinist’s mate," Ramirez said. "The Navy has given my family so many opportunities and I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to the Navy and others."

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Ramirez, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.

"Serving in the Navy means I am a part of defending the rights and freedoms that have made our country great for the past 244 years, and that those who come after me can continue to enjoy them," Ramirez said.

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