Christopher Okula enlisted in the U.S. Navy in early 2003. He attained certification as Navy Journalist at the Defense Information School in Ft. Meade, Maryland, where he trained in both basic writing and broadcasting disciplines. Upon graduation, he was awarded top honors for his distinguished work as a student in radio and television production.

He was afterward assigned to the Fleet Hometown News Center (FHTNC) in Norfolk, VA, where his responsibilities were at first limited to data entry. He was transferred some months later to the neighboring Fleet Public Affairs Center after demonstrating an aptitude for feature writing. He then deployed aboard Norfolk-ported aircraft carriers for several short missions to gather and prepare release material, including imagery for publication.

After serving two years in Norfolk, Okula transferred to an American Forces Network (AFN) detachment in La Maddalena, Italy. There, he supported the station’s operation in several capacities including media traffic management, TV and radio production, website maintenance, and work as a station personality on radio shows and nightly newscasts.

After the base closed in 2007, he transferred to Navy Public Affairs Support Element in San Diego. He has since shot and edited numerous news packages and honored special requests for production support throughout Navy Region Southwest, including high-profile work under the scrutiny of private-sector interests.

Okula separated from active duty in 2009, and immediately transferred into the Navy Reserve. He now attends Brooks Institute in Ventura, Calif., and lives in Los Angeles. His ambitions range from screenwriting to documentary production.