Jeffrey Swanson '82

Lt. Commander Swanson '82 (A&S) proudly served in the US Navy for 12 years.

Why did you choose to attend the University of Hartford and how did your education here prepare you for your career in the Navy and beyond?

The University provided a unique opportunity for learning in a small class setting with a talented and engaging faculty. I always enjoyed my one-on-one discussions over coffee with the Politics & Government faculty because they fostered individual thought and leadership ideals. I was also selected to work in the CT State Legislature as a Senate Intern my senior year. This leadership opportunity was a great segue into leadership as a Naval Officer.

Did you always know you wanted to serve? What are you most proud of when you think about what you accomplished as an officer in the U.S. Navy?

I grew up in a Navy family as my Father served 20 years on submarines. In addition, my family has amassed more than 100 years of uniformed military service across all branches starting with the Spanish American War. It seemed like a natural fit for me to join the Navy. I am most proud of my qualification as a Surface Warfare Officer and Officer of the Deck onboard the aircraft carrier USS John F Kennedy (CV-67). I was a 24-year-old Ensign and responsible directly to the Commanding Officer for the safe operation and navigation of the largest conventionally powered warship in the world with 6,000 crew members and 100 aircraft.

This Veteran’s Day is particularly notable for members of our Navy, as the Navy is celebrating 250 years of service to our country. What is something you’d like to make sure all citizens know about the service and sacrifice of those who serve?

When I’m asked what I enjoyed most about my Naval career I always answer that it was the people that I served with at each duty station. Currently only 1% of the population serves in the military and only 10% are Veterans. Being a Veteran and serving our country was an amazing honor and I’m very proud of my Naval service.

What would you tell students today who are considering serving our country or contemplating a career in the armed services/US Navy?

My advice to anyone considering serving in our Military would be by all means join! It will be the most challenging and rewarding career in their lives. Whether they serve for four years or 20 years you will always know what it means to serve, sacrifice, and be part of something greater than you. Also, you’ll always cherish the friendships with those who served with you. Please remember President John F Kennedy’s quote from a speech he delivered at the Naval Academy in August 1963; "I can imagine no more rewarding a career. And any man who may be asked in this century what he did to make his life worthwhile, I think can respond with a good deal of pride and satisfaction: 'I served in the United States Navy.' "