As the U.S. Navy proudly commemorates its 250th anniversary, Houston continues to make its mark on history through the achievements of its hometown heroes. Among them is Petty Officer 2nd Class Steven Clinton, a determined and driven Navy air traffic controller whose journey began in the heart of Fort Bend County.

A 2016 graduate of Foster High School, Clinton grew up understanding the value of follow-through and perseverance—traits that have proven essential in the high-stakes world of military operations.

“I learned, growing up, that you need to finish what you start,” Clinton said. “Things can be challenging, but it builds character to follow through. In the Navy, that mindset is everything.”

Clinton joined the Navy four years ago with the dream of traveling the world and building a meaningful career. Today, he serves at the Fleet Area Control and Surveillance Facility, Virginia Capes (FACSFAC VACAPES), one of the Navy’s most critical control hubs for coordinating air, sea, and undersea missions across more than 112,000 square miles of operational space stretching from Rhode Island to South Carolina.

Known as the “Giant Killers,” Clinton’s unit manages over 98,000 sorties a year, including support for NASA rocket launches, live-fire training, and underwater detonation exercises. As an air traffic controller, Clinton plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and precision of these intricate military operations.

His Navy service has already taken him across the globe.

“I’ve seen eight countries so far, and I know I’ll see more,” Clinton shared. “One of my proudest moments was completing my deployment to Djibouti, Africa. That experience helped me grow both personally and professionally.”

In a time when 90% of global trade relies on maritime routes and secure undersea communication infrastructure, Clinton’s contributions are vital to safeguarding U.S. economic and national security interests. The Navy’s mission, according to senior officials, is clear: to remain a forward-operating force around the clock and around the world, defending freedom wherever it’s threatened.

For Clinton, serving means more than just uniforms and ranks—it means stability, opportunity, and gratitude.

“I’m thankful for all the experiences the Navy has given me. It’s given me financial security, personal growth, and a clearer vision of my future,” he said.

That future includes higher education. Clinton is already planning ahead with a goal of earning a degree in computer science from the University of Houston in 2026—a move that could launch him into a thriving tech career, whether inside or outside the military.

“I’m still deciding whether to stay in for 20 years,” he admitted. “But I’m keeping the door open.”

Through it all, Clinton credits his mother, Precious, for being his biggest supporter.

“She’s been my rock,” he said. “Her encouragement has meant the world to me.”

Clinton's story is one of vision, service, and strength—and a reminder of how Houston continues to raise bold leaders who are shaping not just their futures, but the future of America’s role on the global stage.

For more powerful stories of Houston natives making their mark around the world, visit Houston Style Magazine.

📌 Read more about Clinton’s Navy journey at navyoutreach.blogspot.com