Alumni Highlight: Dana Lynn Howard II - Washington Township Schools Foundation

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Dana Lynn Howard II

NCHS CLASS OF 2002

This Veteran’s Day, we proudly honor Dana Lynn Howard II, a dedicated Navy veteran and a Firefighter/Engineer with the Indianapolis Fire Department. Dana’s commitment to service didn’t end with his military career, it continues every day as he protects and serves his community with courage and integrity. A proud graduate of North Central High School, Dana credits the school’s diverse and dynamic environment for shaping his values of hard work, communication, and lifelong learning. From winning a state championship in the 4×400 relay to setting a county record, Dana’s legacy of excellence began early and continues to inspire. We thank him for his unwavering dedication to both his country and his city.

Q&A

What are you up to now?

Currently I am a veteran of the Navy and I work full time for the Indianapolis Fire Department.

How did North Central impact and shape who you are today?

With NC being such a well-rounded community of students, it exposed me to so many different individuals from unique walks of life and differing cultures. It also instilled in me the desire to learn, the importance of consistent hard work, the ability to meet deadlines, and understanding how to communicate your ideas and knowledge. You can literally learn something from anyone, and that started at North Central.

WHAT IS your favorite memory from North Central?

Winning a state championship in track & field in the 4×400 relay and setting the county record.

How did your experience at North Central shape your journey in the Navy?

Being comfortable around so many unique individuals was definitely a blessing to experience at North Central & helped tremendously with my journey in the Navy. I was comfortable and eager to meet new individuals from places I’ve never heard of & completely different walks of life. North Central was so diverse that it was my normal, interacting with everyone. And without that experience I know I would’ve had a very limited experience in the Navy.

How did your time in the Navy prepare you for your career as a firefighter?

My time in the Navy has helped me in the fire service in so many ways I couldn’t count. But, structure, discipline, reliability, and being fearless are some of my biggest takes from the military that transferred over to the fire department. Also, being organized and the ability to understand people from their point of view & experiences has helped tremendously in serving my community.

Connect with Dana

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danadh317

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@naptownfire

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialdh317/

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