Naval Aviator to speak at NAACP conference

Lt. Cmdr. Jesse Kingg of VFA-27 has been asked by Rear Adm. Barbara McGann, Commander, Naval Recruiting Command to address approximately 400 college students at the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People conference held this July 11-16 in Atlanta, Ga.

During the six day conference, Kingg says he's considering speaking on what it takes to pursue your dreams.

"I'm very honored they picked me by name to speak," Kingg said. Kingg is scheduled to speak on July 12th.

A former Submariner converted to Naval Aviator, Kingg received media coverage earlier this year by NBC Nightly News, Montel Williams and NOVA.

McGann praised Kingg in a message for his portrayal on national television in March and his contribution to the Navy's recruiting efforts.

Also in the message, McGann said she felt Kingg was exactly the type of role model the Navy needs for these impressionable and bright young men and women.

Kingg has his sights set higher than the altitudes he's flying right now in the F/A-18 Hornet - he wants to become an astronaut.

Last year Kingg passed the Navy screening to become an astronaut but wasn't a finalist in the NASA screening. However, this hasn't stopped Kingg from pursing his goals - Kingg's going to apply again next year.

With aspirations to become an astronaut and achievements like becoming a pilot already fulfilled, Kingg has the opportunity to inspire these college students to purse their dreams.

Caption: Lt. Cmdr. Jesse Kingg, VFA-27's Maintenance officer, is speaking at the NAACP conference July 12th.