Mandy Cantwell reflects on the remarkable journey her son Gaven has embarked upon. As a mother, Mandy has always felt a deep sense of pride for her two children, Gabby and Gaven, but watching her only son don the Navy uniform has brought about emotions she never quite expected. Gaven, now training to be a Navy diver with plans to serve aboard a submarine, has set his sights on challenges that stretch far beyond what most people can imagine. For Mandy, every day comes with a mix of pride, worry, and awe.

It’s not the first time the Cantwell family has seen a son enter the Navy. Mandy’s husband, Drew, also served in the Navy, working on submarines much like their son Gaven. “It’s funny how life works,” Mandy says with a smile. “Drew and Gaven are doing the exact same thing—same job title, both on submarines. The only difference is that Gaven’s going to dive school. But the fact that they both ended up in the same position? It’s incredible.”

For Mandy, the connection between her son and husband’s shared military service feels like a full-circle moment. Yet, it’s Gaven’s unique path, which includes mastering the specialized skills of Navy diving, that has left her both amazed and anxious. “I’m terrified for what he’s going to be doing,” she admits. “Diving on a submarine, welding underwater—these are things that most people wouldn’t even think about, but here he is, preparing for it.”

Standing nearly 6’5” before he puts his boots on, Gaven is, as Mandy describes, “a big, strong guy,” yet he faces challenges most people can’t fathom. His submarine quarters are tight, and when he’s lying flat on his back, his feet touch one end of his bunk while his head touches the other. “There’s barely enough room for him,” Mandy says with a laugh, “but somehow he’s making it work.”

Gaven’s journey into the Navy didn’t surprise his mom. After all, it’s in the family. “I always knew Gaven was built for something like this,” Mandy says proudly. “He’s been through so much already—like his motocross accident—and he’s shown again and again that he’s determined to push through.” That same determination helped Gaven finish second in his class at boot camp, securing a coveted spot in San Diego for his specialized submarine training. “He’s doing something really tough,” Mandy reflects, “but I know he’s more than capable.”

Still, the distance between Illinois and California isn’t always easy for Mandy. Gaven is stationed in San Diego, and while he enjoys his work, weekends can get lonely with many of his fellow sailors living off-base. Mandy finds comfort in the fact that Gaven has a friend’s family nearby, giving him a place to unwind and escape the rigors of his demanding schedule. “They’re really close,” she explains. “Gaven goes over there as much as he can, and it makes me feel better knowing he has that connection.”

When asked how Gaven feels about his role in the military, Mandy smiles softly. “He doesn’t talk much about it on an emotional level,” she says, “but I know he’s proud of what he’s doing. He’s always wanted to serve his country, and now he’s doing just that.”

Like many military moms, Mandy experiences a unique blend of pride and concern. The world, as she puts it, is “full of uncertainty.” She’s aware of the challenges her son may face, but she also knows that he’s in the best possible hands, receiving top-notch training for some of the Navy’s most critical operations. “It’s a tough life, but Gaven is so strong. He’s going to make it through, no matter what comes his way.”

At home, the Cantwell family proudly wears their Navy “swag.” From “Proud Navy Mom” t-shirts to keychains and cups, Mandy has accumulated an impressive collection of memorabilia, all in support of her son. “We made shirts for his boot camp graduation,” she shares, “with all of his graduation details on the back. I have necklaces, mugs, you name it.” For Mandy, it’s not just about the swag—it’s about reminding Gaven that no matter how far away he is, his family is always thinking of him.

And Gaven isn’t the only Cantwell making waves. Gabby, Gaven’s sister, is a senior in high school, forging her own path in sports and academics while exploring career options in occupational therapy, just like her mom. “I’m proud of Gabby too,” Mandy says. “She’s doing all the research and looking at schools, but she’s also been a big support to Gaven, even though she jokes about how different they are.”

As Gaven continues his training and prepares for his eventual submarine deployment, Mandy looks ahead with cautious optimism. “I don’t know if he’ll stay in the Navy after his enlistment,” she muses. “He wants a family someday, and the Navy life can be tough for that. But for now, he’s exactly where he needs to be.”

For the Cantwell family, the journey of military service is one filled with both challenges and triumphs. Mandy’s role as a Navy mom, watching her son take on extraordinary responsibilities, has shaped her into a pillar of strength. And while Gaven may be underwater, navigating the complexities of life on a submarine, his mom is back home in Momence, proudly cheering him on every step of the way.