The Man Behind the Name - Samuel L. Gravely, Jr. Elementary School

As a resident of Dominion Valley and Navy Reserve Officer, I was proud to learn the history behind the name of the new elementary school being constructed in our community. Vice Admiral Samuel Lee Gravely, Jr. (June 4, 1922 - October 22, 2004) is a perfect role model for our young children.

"Success in life is the result of several factors. My formula is simply education plus motivation plus perseverance. Education is paramount. Motivation: one must decide what he wants to do in life, how best to get there and to proceed relentlessly towards that goal. Perseverance: The ability to steadfastly proceed to your goal despite all obstacles. It is the ability to overcome." - Admiral Gravely

• The first African American commissioned as an officer from the Navy Reserve Officer Training Course (NROTC).
• The first African American to command a U.S. Navy warship.
• The first African American to command an American warship under combat conditions since the Civil War.
• The first African American to command a major naval warship.
• The first African- American admiral.
• The first African American to rise to the rank of vice admiral.
• The first African American to command a U.S. fleet.

Seven "firsts." 38 years. One man - Vice Admiral Samuel L. Gravely, Jr.