Magnolia native serves with the Red Lancers of Navy patrol squadron

MAGNOLIA, TX -- Petty Officer 3rd Class Cristian Ollison, a native of Magnolia, Texas, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to the Red Lancers of Patrol Squadron 10 (VP-10).

Ollison graduated from Magnolia West High School in 2023.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Magnolia.

“I learned how to work hard,” Ollison said. “It’s a blue-collar area; it teaches you how to be grateful for the things you have and how to work hard for the things you want.”

Ollison joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Ollison serves as an aviation machinist's mate.

“My uncle was in the Navy,” Ollison said. “He told me all about traveling the world, and I wanted to get out of Magnolia for the time being and see new things.”

VP-10 is one of the original and oldest aviation squadrons in the U.S. Navy. The squadron was originally formed in 1921 as a derivative of VS-15. However, it traces its official heritage to July 1, 1930, with the commissioning of Patrol Bombing Squadron 10S.

Members of VP-10 fly and maintain the U.S. Navy’s P-8A Poseidon multi-mission maritime aircraft. Designed to secure the U.S. Navy’s future in long-range maritime patrol capability, the P-8A has transformed how the Navy’s maritime patrol and reconnaissance force will train, operate and deploy, according to Navy officials. P-8A aircraft deploy around the globe to monitor the world’s oceans wherever they are needed.

“The men and women of Patrol Squadron TEN are the driving force behind the Red Lancers’ combat readiness and tactical excellence,” said Cmdr. Jason Coons, commanding officer of VP-10. “By relentlessly honing their craft in anti-submarine warfare and P-8A overwatch, they ensure our national interests are protected every single day.”

With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

Ollison has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“Thus far, I am most proud of getting plane captain of the year and getting meritoriously promoted to petty officer 3rd class,” Ollison said. “Getting plane captain of the year, you have to be dedicated to the job. There is an aspect of knowing what you're doing beyond basic generic knowledge. You have to take care of your aircrew and your pilot. There is a big networking component as well; everyone sees your face and has to know who you are, and be confident that they can trust you to come to you for anything. It's their lives on the plane.”

Ollison serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation's prosperity and security.

“Serving means structure,” Ollison said. “It shows me there is a lot to be thankful for in this life, and I get to defend what others are thankful for.”

Ollison is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I want to thank my wife, Tinley, my mom, Sydney, my dad, Chris, and my mentor, Petty Officer 1st Class Jordan Long,” Ollison added. “They have all supported me. My wife has been a big part of that; she serves alongside me and goes through all the hardships with me. Long was the first one to show me the ropes in the Navy; he highlighted all of my values and showed me how to excel in my career, not just where I am now, but my future. My parents have always been there for me; they were the stepping stone for what I wanted to do in my life. I wouldn't be where I am now if it wasn't for them.”

This year, the Navy is commemorating its contribution to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years, the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity. More information is available here: https://www.navy.mil/navy-250/