Charles J. Sams has finished the first phase of U.S. Navy training.

A 2008 graduate of Dawson County High School, Sams is classified as an E-3 Navy Reservist.

He is the son of Darrin and Lynn Sams, and brother of Justin Sams, all of Dawsonville.

His graduation ceremony was held on Jan 8, 2010 at the Naval Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill.

He is currently stationed at Fort Jackson, in Columbia, S.C. He is training for his job as R/P specialist.

In a few weeks he will be sent to Camp Lejune in N.C.

He will be there for about 8 weeks until he completes the final stage of training.

Sams surprised his family when he showed up unexpectedly, and was home for Valentines Day.

“We went to church that day and celebrated his brother’s 16th birthday. It was a wonderful day,” said his family.

“We love you and miss you very much. We are so proud of you and hope to see you soon,” they added.

He is the grandson of Jerry and Brenda Richards and Vivian and Kenneth Newberry, all of Cumming.