I stood backstage at Naval Station Norfolk, heart pounding as I prepared to address the crowd. It was the Navy’s 250th anniversary, and I wanted to honor them with something spirited. I’d been briefed that “Hooyah” was a traditional Navy SEAL battle cry—used to boost morale and show unity. So when I stepped up to the mic, I smiled, waved, and said it loud: “Hooyah Navy!” The applause came, but then… a pause. A long one. I felt it. Something was off.
Later that night, I saw the reactions online. People were mocking my greeting, twisting it into memes and jokes. “Did her comms team tell her to say this to be relatable?” one user wrote. Another joked, “She can add it to her list of languages.” I was stunned. I’d meant it as a gesture of respect, not a punchline. But the internet had other plans.
I’ve always known that public appearances come with scrutiny. But this felt different. The laughter wasn’t just about the phrase—it was about me. My accent, my delivery, my identity. Some even joked I was speaking a new language. I couldn’t help but wonder: would they have reacted the same way if someone else had said it?
Still, I reminded myself why I was there. I’ve long supported military families, visited bases, and spoken with service members. This wasn’t my first time honoring them, and it won’t be my last. The Navy deserves celebration, and I won’t let mockery drown out that message.
One woman at the event had grabbed my hand afterward and said, “Thank you for being here. It means a lot.” That moment stayed with me. It reminded me that beyond the noise, there are real people who appreciate the effort—even if it’s imperfect.
My husband was late to the event, which added to the awkwardness. Sailors stood waiting, silent, unsure. I tried to fill that space with warmth, even if my words didn’t land the way I hoped. I’ve learned that sincerity doesn’t always translate—but it still matters.
I’m not a comedian, a soldier, or a speechwriter. I’m a woman trying to connect. And if saying “Hooyah Navy” made even one sailor feel seen, then I’ll take the ridicule. Because honoring service should never be a joke.
So yes, I said it. “Hooyah Navy.” And I meant it. Not perfectly, not poetically—but genuinely. And next time, I’ll still show up, still speak, and still try. Because respect isn’t about flawless delivery—it’s about showing up.
