Two Marion High School seniors have made the decision to join the world’s most powerful naval force, America’s Navy. 

Twin brothers Jack and James Lanier of Universal City, Texas, are making final preparations to attend recruit training after graduation and becoming Sailors in the Navy’s Nuclear Propulsion career field.  

“Serving my country is one of the most important things I can do,” said Jack.   “The Nuclear Propulsion career field option was presented to me and it seemed pretty cool.  Originally, I wanted to be a Navy SEAL because my dad’s godfather was an original frogman.”

According to Jack, it’s amazing to have joined the Navy with his brother.

“It all started off with that I wanted to see the world,” said James.  “To be part of something greater than myself and the Navy seems to be the right type of organization for me.”

During the twins’ 72-hour indoctrination held at Navy Recruiting Station (NRS) New Braunfels, Oct. 30, both the Lanier’s parents were present.

 “I think it’s awesome! I think they did a tremendous job on deciding on what they wanted to do with their futures,” said Jim Lanier.  “Their thought processes were well thought out and I believe it was the right decision for them.”

“Additionally, the recruiting process was amazing which allowed them to know what opportunities awaited them,” said Lanier. “Petty Officer Barnes did a tremendous job of recruiting both my sons.”

For Electronics Technician (Submarines) 1st Class Vincent Barnes of Chicago assigned to NRS New Braunfels, Navy Recruiting District (NRD) San Antonio, he has recruited family members into the Navy but never twins.

“I think they are very blessed to be afforded the opportunity to qualify for service not only in the Navy, but in one of our top programs,” said Barnes.  “I am very happy to have been a part of what I'm sure will be a very rewarding career that has only just begun for them.”

According to Barnes, the twins’ next steps are to graduate high school, participate in the Navy Delayed Entry Program, keep themselves healthy, and stay out of harm’s way.

Currently, the Navy’s Nuclear Propulsion Program is awarding bonuses of up to $40,000.

After graduating from Recruit Training Command, they will report to Navy Nuclear Power Training Command in Charleston, SC., where they will complete 18 to 24 months of training.  Afterwards they will receive orders to a submarine or aircraft carrier.

The Navy’s recruiting force totals over 6,100 personnel in more than 1,000 recruiting stations around the globe.  Their combined goal is to attract the highest quality candidates to assure the ongoing success of America’s Navy.