Honoring Veterans: Navy Veteran Sara Joyner

Sara “Clutch” Joyner was born on Hoopers Island, Maryland, into a family deeply rooted in the naval tradition. She is one of the children born to Sara Jane Applegarth and Commander Hubert Applegarth, who graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1951 and retired from the Navy in 1977. The Applegarth family’s connection to public service runs even deeper, with her great-grandfather William Francis Applegarth Sr. having served as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates and the Maryland Senate. 

Joyner continued her family’s legacy of service by attending the United States Naval Academy. In 1989, she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in oceanography and was commissioned as an ensign in the Navy. Her journey into the world of aviation began when she entered flight school, earning her naval aviator wings in July 1991. In 1996, she became a fighter pilot, flying the F/A-18 Hornet with Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147, based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California.

Throughout her career, Joyner made significant contributions to the Navy. She took command of VFA105 on March 2, 2007, becoming the first female strike fighter pilot to command a Navy fighter squadron. Later, she assumed the role of deputy commander of Carrier Air Wing Three and eventually assumed full command on Jan. 4, 2013. Under her leadership, the air wing embarked on a deployment aboard the USS Harry S. Truman in July 2013.

Joyner took on the role of Director for Manpower and Personnel (J1) for the Joint Chiefs of Staff in June 2018, showcasing her versatility and leadership across various roles within the military.

Joyner’s service in the Navy has earned her numerous awards, including a Defense Superior Service Medal, a Legion of Merit, and a Navy Distinguished Service Medal. 

After an impressive career, Joyner continued to serve her nation. She assumed command of Carrier Strike Group 2 in August 2019, a testament to her leadership capabilities. Following this, she served as the Chief of Legislative Affairs for the Department of the Navy until May 2022.

As the first female strike fighter pilot to command a Navy fighter squadron and a carrier air wing, Joyner has shattered barriers and set an inspiring example for future generations. Her numerous awards and promotions reflect her exceptional contributions to the United States Navy, and her continuing service in roles such as Director for Force Structure, Resources, and Assessment on the Joint Staff showcases her enduring commitment to the nation’s defense. 

We honor her service.

Nominate a Veteran for Honoring Veterans

Do you want to light up the face of a special Veteran? Have you been wondering how to tell your Veteran they are special to you? VA’s Honoring Veterans social media feature is an opportunity to highlight your Veteran and his/her service.

It’s easy to nominate a Veteran. All it takes is an email to newmedia@va.gov with as much information as you can put together, along with some good photos. Visit our blog post about nominating to learn how to create the best submission.

Writer: Lara Walker

Editors: Lillian Williams, James Bisceglia

Researcher: Raphael Romea

Graphic Designer: William Vega