Meet the 1st Black woman behind the world’s largest naval base

Janet Days is the first Black woman named commanding officer of Naval Station Norfolk, the largest naval base in the world. TODAY’s Sheinelle Jones sits down with the trailblazer about leading the 24/7 operation.
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#navy #norfolk #internationalwomensday

[@lk29392]

I worked with Janet when I was in the Navy and she was one of the best officers I ever worked with. She has and will continue to do America proud!

[@Thomas-gg5nc]

Thank you so much for your service!!!

[@ToothlesstheNightFury510]

That’s awesome

[@eastafrika728]

You were certainly privileged to experience that.

[@michaels3811]

Maria Divine Mercy is God's End Time Prophet... A World War is coming and Communism will take Europe first, then Unites States. Prepare for battle!

[@richrichy2961]

I remember her, she always participated she love to learn the system.

[@boriscalderon1678]

“…being first means I won’t be the last.” Powerful statement, from a humble warrior. Service and sacrifice run in her family. When people wonder what makes America great, point to her. Congratulations, Capt. Days and a profound thank you to the example your father set.

[@jackroberts416]

She could be honored with the title of first and last. Imagine that

[@Pou1gie1]

@@jackroberts416 A statement only a bigot could love

[@nanakonadu-]

@Peter Angles There is always an Evil one angry when we're doing good, So sorry peter

[@mikaelbeckfjord3898]

@Peter Angles YOU LOW DOWN DERTY SERIES 6 DNA VARIANT YOU!

[@vanessawyndham8791]

​@Peter Angles Hater. Jealous.

[@Kevin-zo7ks]

She's been serving since she was born. From her father to now. Outstanding Captain. From a Marine Veteran, Semper Fi to you Captain.

[@ibdam1]

👏🏾👏🏾👍🏾👍🏾

[@TJJonesJonescrestla]

Semper Fi Brother

[@CALL_LID]

😂 🤣🗣️temper HI

[@kennethwilliams7697]

Captain Days, you make not only your people proud, you make your country proud! Carry on!!

[@moses9811]

We are not proud because if America go to war with Africa we go to war in America and the black sell outs will be first.

[@dominiquemosley1703]

Yes, indeed!!

[@shuquanwalters8551]

This‼️🙌🏾❣️

[@elisagreene2504]

The Black Excellence will continue on!🎉

[@user-cv7no8bj9v]

I appreciate her service but women should never be in command over men in that capacity.

[@patricksaintjean_]

Capt. Janet H. Days and her father deserve a standing ovation for decades to come.

[@MrAzizisse]

she ranks only a Captain and still runs a base so big ? I would expect at least a Lt. colonel to be assigned to such a job ! when i read your writing Capt. Janet H. Days, I couldn't believe it, and had to go back to video to confirm and yes it says Capt. !! I find it strange

[@MrAzizisse]

none the less she is very competitive person, speaks so well, shows leadership. I admire her. indeed. i wish i could serve in the US military. an institution that values, competitiveness, education, low and order, improvement of oneself.

[@ianchorrushi4973]

@@MrAzizisse Navy captains are an O6 and equivalent of a full colonel in other branches.

[@MrAzizisse]

@@ianchorrushi4973 hello Mr ian. Thanks for your answer. I just double checked and you are spot on correct. It makes sense now.i am Architect builder but i admire US military. Institution that works on merit and knowledge. Anything based on those must become a leader . Also USarmy came to save 3 million lives in my home country of somalia during civil war in which large parts of country were cut off from food supply by warlord mohamed farah aideed. If US army didnt come save , he would have starved 3 million people who rejected mohamed farah aideed as president during civil war. Only if US army was not too lenient and installed government somalia would have stood on its feet long time ago and wud hve bewn great US ally

[@NaturalAdvisor]

@@MrAzizisseA Captain is just below Admiral rank in the Navy. It’s not the same as an Army captain.

[@lexfromtheinsideout3483]

CAPT Days gave me goosebumps... she's a humble servant and such a beautiful way about her! Thank you for stepping up in the manner that you have and for being such an example for the masses. We are forever indebted to your leadership! Blessings to you ma'am!

[@dk_playzgamez]

As a young sailor myself straight outta high school just 1 month shy of a year, Captain Days inspires me to become the best Sailor I can be and make it to the top. What a leader, it literally emits from my phone as she speaks and tells her story🦾🖤.

[@stacyadkins5374]

Thanks for your service.

[@Lijah578]

Thank you for serving this country!! Blessings to you!

[@pointmakerinmedia]

Rooting for you from the state of Georgia!!!

[@JomerTB]

I was in the Navy for 8 years. Wish I had a mentor like her. She's awesome and love her presence and the way she speaks. It's like she knows what she's going to say before you even ask the question and then when she delivers the answer, she says it in a way to ensure you understand every word that she says.

[@lexfromtheinsideout3483]

Yes...she draws you right in! I really enjoyed this interview!

[@copiouscat]

Same here!

[@kathygomez652]

@@lexfromtheinsideout3483 totally love her style and attitude

[@erichall3090]

JamMastserJB - I work directly for CAPT Days today (Retired Navy 27 years) and have been since 2021. She is a leaders amongst leaders. This is her everyday attitude and has the respect of our entire staff. Pleasure to serve and even better to work with.

[@509travel8]

As a black man and an immigrant , I m very proud to see our sisters validate for their courage. We need more of this

[@damikey18]

I'm proud of all Men and Women fellow brothers snd sisters in arms of all skin colours that serve in the military🤙

[@rustynail246]

We need more of this like we need more of Kamala.

[@damikey18]

@@rustynail246 "more of kamala" said no one ever💀

[@marilyndbillington9825]

However, we are talking about a Black woman in this case. Don't denationalize her . She is also proud of her race, as you are!

[@damikey18]

@@marilyndbillington9825I'm proud to be white just like a black man would be proud to be black and so on.

[@teedee643]

So sharp, humble and assertive. Makes me proud to be a WOMAN! We need more ppl like her leading.

[@efremteenagebento6701]

❤🎉🎉🎉🎉 🙏

[@Michael-f4d8g]

Congrats Capt this is po3 Michael Mitchell USS New Jersey bb62. I can not wait to make it back to Norfolk I love visiting base over there.. people seem very very nice over there

[@Michael-f4d8g]

I am glad I got to be stationed in us Pacific command and in 7tt fleet

[@angelataylor8863]

I am so proud of Captain Days! She is a great American. Thank you for your service and thank you for being you. You are an inspiration!!!

[@noneofyourbeeswax371]

What an amazing woman! An inspiration to us all and an example of what you can achieve if you hold on through adversity.

[@peaceatheart101]

As a Navy Vet, this makes me so happy and super proud of this Officer! She looks fantastic too!❤️

[@linedanzer4302]

She's simply amazing! I wonder who will play her in the movie. 🙂 She has such a humble and genuine spirit. All 56,000 people working under her must be proud.

[@ms.j6989]

I think Anjanue Ellis should play her❤

[@sewuesebitto9677]

Viola Davis fits the bill!

[@leenaamwaalwa3567]

"It means I'm not the last"! This woman is the true definition of 'iron sharpens iron'. 💓🔥💃🏿

[@alex3373]

She seems so humble, I wish her the very best in her career 🇺🇸

[@dominiquemosley1703]

She's a living legend & a part of American History!! AWESOME!!! 💜🤗🙏

[@QueenC1111-cn7mh]

Awesome ❤ Wow! I almost cried. Raise by her dad...so was I. I hope to meet her one day.

[@ramonpineda7514]

I actually got teary eyed because I am so proud of her. I pray you meet her one day. I hope my wife and I meet her one day also.

[@lavertnero2505]

It's awesome reading about the people that have served with her and all the great words spoken about her. HAND SALUTE!!!

[@carolynjanise4086]

Wow! Still making history. Congratulations, Captain Commander Janet Days. She is very well-spoken, poised, and focused. I wonder does she have a book out yet or maybe a docuseries/film in the making? What an incredible feat to accomplish.

[@pagingamber]

I was in the Navy. So proud to see Captain Days operate as the CO of Norfolk. I was stationed there for a while many years ago. Go Navy!

[@HowardBroaden]

As a retired master chief from the US Navy, I would like to send my congratulations to Captain Janet Days, as commanding officer of US Naval Station Norfolk. I was stationed at Naval Station Norfolk and US Naval base Little Creek, where I spin some of my time in US NAVY. to all of the young women who are out there you can do and be anything you want to be just ask Captain Janet Days, Hand Salute!!!!!! 👍🏿

[@ChronicAndIronic]

Being a C.O. ain’t easy. That’s absolutely awesome that she took after her father

[@fionacaleb]

Congratulations, Ma'am. She seems humble despite her achievements.

[@edwindeas]

These are the types of stories that I look for these days. Inspiring...

[@sandraperkins203]

Wow! What an amazing woman. I'm so proud of her. Black women do it. Prayers and blessings to you 🙏 Captain Days.

[@TheVuduYuDu]

"Our nation's children are our responsibility". Thank you! So very happy that there is a commanding officer that gets what should be basic.

[@Yasminescookingshow]

I served at NOB for 3 years and I live a few blocks from it now as a proud veteran and educator. I see Captain Days' name on that big blue sign every day when I drive by the gate on Hampton BLVD. Makes me so proud. Thank you Captain.

[@87aggietim]

It all goes back to how you were raised and your parents involvement in your life and plans. You can see why she is great at her job.

[@804MRMAN]

Meanwhile, in REALITY, the most evil people in America come from so called "good parenting homes." 🤣🤣🤣

[@mhenderson1000]

Congrats Capt Days..As an AF retire vet and the son of WWII Navy Vet, I would love to say I and my dad are very proud of you..I salute you Mama!!!

[@jasmineartis5754]

WOW she’s one in a trillion. This is the first time I’ve seen a black woman as a captain. Seriously it’s crazy to see. I’ve seen black males (they do have a complex) she’s just wonderful! When I see her I see myself, I see my sisters, my mom , my aunts. This makes me feel so good. There will be a lot more black women who will join because of her.

[@shawniehoward]

Nope, I have no tears in my eyes right now. Someone give me some tissue. God Bless Captain Days and all our men and women in service and those who have served. Thank you so much for your sacrifice and service.

[@winchells]

Congratulations Capt. Days and thank you for your service!

[@markbenn1907]

This woman’s perspectives and accomplishments are amazing. Not a victim at all and really give people the benifit of the doubt.

[@marjorjorietillman856]

A person can be a victim, without letting it stop them. I’ve been a victim of discrimination, to my face more than once, but as a Black female, I kept pressing forward!

[@Yologism]

OP -(Mark) You ruined your statement with your last sentence, so unnecessary.

[@TommyTest147]

She has a amazing smile, thank you for your service !!!.

[@bhawkpilot4714]

Even amongst soldiers she had a great reputation. Very few leaders realize the military is a “people business” as she stated. The ones who don’t come to this understanding and live it end up making out to be the commanders that she is thankfully not representative of. Looking forward to see how far she can take this. I think, ALL the way up.

[@sandyedens9222]

God bless this amazing woman. You are a wonderful example of what hard work and drive can create. You rock!

[@karencuffee1989]

What a great human, orator, and leader who exudes confidence but is so humble and cares about her troops. Thank you for your continued service and for setting an awesome example of leadership. Blessings to You and keep going!🫡

[@abchappell01]

Absolutely wonderful presentation. I am so very proud of her 😊

[@merovingian688]

When deserving people are given the opportunity. Amazing.

[@gravestone9831]

As a black man I appreciate the fact that not only did she get the job because she's a black woman, she's a highly decorated and highly QUALIFIED black woman who earned every one of her achievements. They didn't just give her the job like some other women I know in leadership positions.

[@user-iy1xz6or9m]

First of all, she did not get the job because she is black, she got it because she is good at what she does according to the amazing comments under this video.

[@beckyhenkel7917]

Nobody would give it to her if she wasn't qualified!

[@user-iy1xz6or9m]

@@beckyhenkel7917 It's always black males saying negative things because black women as a collective doing better than them.

[@marjorjorietillman856]

Each one of your 3 comments are correct!! ❤

[@user-cv7no8bj9v]

Women should never have authority over men in that capacity.

[@MYZTICTRAVLER]

Yes, I can tell she is an honest people person through and through. I can say this because I have spent time with at least five four stars in personal, professional, lengthy conversations with them. I understand leaders of her rank. In addition, I love her energy and enthusiasm for her troops...CONGRATS on the promotion General!

[@ellarussell8769]

From one woman to another congratulations!! We are proud of you

[@gloriajones367]

I met this AWESOME woman at my son's retirement. She exudes confidence and great leadership. What an inspiration she is.

[@SANDYMILLER23]

Congratulations Commander Captain Days!!! May God keep blessing you to achieve higher heights. Hopefully as Joint Chief of Staff one day. And l too was raised by a single Black father. And was in the military for over 15 years. Salute. 🤎🇺🇸🤎🇺🇸🤎

[@Lmasso1]

As a x vet myself I applaud her and her accomplishments

[@amandahirschfeld7382]

Congratulations to her🥳so awesome. I can only imagine how proud her daddy is❤

[@MB-go6uy]

I don't think I could even begin to remotely comprehend how she does it all.

[@rickredmond9847]

She's from here in Chicago too. She'll make Admiral in due time. (Navy Veteran)

[@YoYo16_19]

Make me even more proud!! As a Navy Veteran and from the Chi!!

[@vincentdougherty947]

Absolutely ..... definitely need more like her. ..⚓⚓⚓⚓⚓🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 go navy SEABEES marines

[@atmemawshouse]

What an inspiration! Kudos to you Captain Days from this Army wife. You make me proud. ❤

[@ugoibeawuchi28]

All the way from Nigeria Thank you Ma'am for inspiring your generation!!!

[@VABeachgirl-np8iw]

As a former Naval Officer Wife who lived in Norfolk, I am very impressed. Congratulations!

[@brandonn.410]

Thank you for your service ma’am, I’ll be onboard NS Norfolk soon, and will be proud to call you my CO!

[@nathanclark2131]

I use to work as a navy contractor on this base,it's really...really big.

[@CorettaJG]

Proud to see you out here leading, working, and representing Captain!

[@antoyawhite319]

How powerful 👏🏾👏🏾 being first… “It means I am not the last.” 👏🏾👏🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾 So powerful. I love that. I have never heard anyone say that in reference to being the first. I also appreciate Captain Days’ calm, confident demeanor and take on race and gender, mentorship, and leadership. Thank you for your service and stellar example of what it means to be powerful and humble. Truly inspiring.

[@leonthomas636]

Proud of your appointment to commanding officer of Naval Station Norfolk, continue on your road towards receiving your Star.

[@joelpayne1193]

Congratulations for your promotion in the Navy and she play important role for making sure everyone work well with their team work and work with her with making sure they are safe. Good luck with your new job 😊

[@Rita-wl8vq]

Kudos to you Captain. Such a positive role model for young girls. God Bless

[@coreyhead4553]

Absolutely rooting for her!!!

[@martinvera5962]

Honor Courage Commitment ⚓ 🇺🇸 Wow that's a tremendous responsibility.

[@valoriefields986]

I’m absolutely so proud of you and Thank you for being about the people we appreciate you. Keep up the good work and a salute to you and our military family.❤

[@maggieandjosephshow6052]

Congratulations Captain Days, you have a beautiful personality.

[@WildnWithMarcus]

never met her but I just love her

[@carleswilliams3339]

So proud! You go sister. ❤

[@carolynbyrd2722]

I’m so proud of you May God continue to bless you and your family always ❤❤❤❤❤❤🙏🏾🙌🏾🙏🏾

[@williekinney4773]

A true sister in arms and now you have the NAVY CROWN JEWEL, I know it is in good hands, salute Captain from a Navy/Army vet!

[@cmh6122]

So cool to see the best of what our society can produce in the spotlight they deserve!

[@powerbadpowerbad]

Good interview,she seems like such a sweet person and congrats on your COMMAND.Norfolk was my first base ( went there for training )in the navy,have a lot of GOOD memories while there. LOL. I enjoyed my time in the navy also. GO-NAVY !!!!

[@JulioVega-w3p]

This is what has always made America great!

[@stormwho]

Salute to you Captain Days. Thank you for your service

[@rubietitre9555]

Thx for your service ,.... Powerful Lady🎉❤

[@erminacodjoe]

Thank you……So very inspiring and affirming for anyone!! One thing I love how she acknowledges the work and importance of “her team”. A team player will always be successful, that’s a quality that’s missing in many cases….. Great video….Thank you!!

[@arethamatthews9044]

this will be a movie one day

[@Shoemaker0684]

Another Female hero to add to my many. Congratulations Mrs Commander Janet on your Duty. Salute..

[@BeautiifulliMade]

She's absolutely amazing, very humble in person as well. She's going to do a great job!!

[@mildredcooley5246]

Such an amazing and courageous person. She represents our genders well ☺️. She's an inspiration for all women 🙂. Thanks for sharing this video cuz!

[@annemacleod1421]

Am thankful that her father returned from Vietnam …and was able to continue to raise, inspire and mentor her and her siblings. Janet exudes professionalism, materialism, and wisdom. 🐑🐑🇳🇿🇳🇿NZ

[@cidcampeador7922]

OUTSTANDING! Best of luck in your future endeavors and God bless you always!

[@soxplayer3907]

I can tell just from a brief moment of her talking on this subject she is smart highly qualified and no nonsense she has my respect and support 👍🇺🇸

[@willding287]

congrats captain days!! One of the best captains I’ve worked with!!

[@tommismith2]

You have made us proud! Thank you for your service!

[@StClaire99]

All I can say God bless to her !

[@feromrichburg7701]

This woman is absolutely gorgeous ❤!!

[@ms.barbsmiller745]

I’m a retired Navy Chief and this makes me super proud!!

[@dnyce3506]

Thank you for your Service!😊💪🏿🙏🏿

[@darrianross367]

First statement is so profound. Not the last. Absolutely!!!

[@jaiyabyrd4177]

Absolutely Magnificent. It is a wonderful thing to see Black American biological Women in such a huge military role in the 21st Century Naval Station Norfolk. God Bless Commander Davis God Bless America 🙏🏾🇺🇸

[@crashHypnotize]

It means that is a woman of committed purpose. I’m sure she has been in since I was born if not longer. I was born in 1988.I loved the comment , not I’m so use to it. Awesome. This woman is a leader.

[@desmondlawson8220]

As a former Navy Sailor I'm so proud right now!

[@hoopdreamzmusic2312]

Captain Days will now forever be a vital part of our American history. Thank you so much for your journey and what you have accomplished thus far. You truly are an inspiration to us all.

[@finnskywalker2273]

👏🏼 I love this! Thank you for your service, your leadership and your example Captain! You exemplify the best of what America can be!

[@dawnd.5290]

"It means that I'm not the last" - that's humble!

[@clbo9878]

Can someone PLEASE help me understand what is so special/important about this story?

[@carlhicksjr8401]

So, Army veteran here. First off, GRATZ to Capt. Days. Navy Inc. ain't easy for a black woman to prosper in, so it says a lot about her that she made all 4 stripes. I live in an area with a lot of swabbie veterans and retirees and what they tell me is that base commander is a binary gig: you're either being screened for high flag rank or it's a doorknob assignment. I can't say what kind of officer Capt. Day is from a heavily edited 6 minute news segment, but what I have seen impresses me. I hope that she is as good as first impressions appear.

[@samdollar9835]

So proud of you, Ma’am! Thanks for your service and may God continue lifting you even higher! This is an incredible show! Thank y’all!

[@edwinfigueroa9019]

Thank you for your service commander Days.

[@twin4life638]

Absolutely awesome

[@calinionut-alin2154]

Good for her. I am proud to see woman or Man who work to be better and Have courage to dream♥️

[@copperhousefarm4794]

Capt. Days, congratulations on your promotion! You make us Proud!

[@lc2296]

So proud