Donny Knight was born on January 14, 1985, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 10, 2008, and after completing basic training at NTC Great Lakes, Illinois, in June 2008, and Master at Arms A School in August 2008, he served with Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron 6 at Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia, from August 2008 until he was honorably discharged from the Navy on October 13, 2011. During this time he deployed to Spain and Israel from September 2008 to March 2009.

The Sailor's Creed:

I am a United States Sailor.

I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America and I will obey the orders of those appointed over me.

I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who have gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world.

I proudly serve my country's Navy combat team with Honor, Courage and Commitment.

I am committed to excellence and the fair treatment of all.