United States Navy Memorial Honors Sailors of the Year

WASHINGTON, Feb. 15, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- On Friday, February 12th, The United States Navy Memorial had the distinct pleasure to honor the 2019 Sailors of the Year.

"Though their awards were postponed due to the pandemic, their achievements are timeless," said Rear Admiral Frank Thorp, President and CEO of the Navy Memorial. "The presentation provides a great insight into the men and women who serve in our Navy today."

In a greater effort to give the public an eye into the internal processes of the Navy, the Sailors of the Year awards were presented through a digital production which was created by the Navy Memorial. The sailors honored were also given a platform to discuss the achievements that led to their selection as Sailors of the Year, and how their experiences in the Navy shaped how they view service today.

The first to be awarded was United States Fleet Forces Sailor of the Year, Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class Carolina Berrio. Having served in the Navy for over 20 years, Petty Officer Berrio spoke about how her experience shaped how she saw service in her own eyes. When speaking about her initial time in the service she said, "At that time I knew I was there for something else. Everything just kind of changed and I realized this was what I wanted to do."

Next to be awarded was the Pacific Fleet Sea Sailor of the Year, Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class Jason C. Webley. When asked what it felt like to receive the award he said, "To be named Sailor of the Year is beyond my wildest dreams... It was and is still is a blessing, 100 percent." He went on to speak about how his family and friends helped him persevere to find success through the Navy and helped him strive for the award.

The Navy Shore Sailor of the Year Award was awarded to Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class Kimber N. Dominguez. She joined the Navy when she was in high school after she was recruited by a friend. She said that her daughter and friends had given her an "Ah Ha!" moment that made her realize that she was on the right career path.

Finally, the Navy Reserve Sailor of the Year was awarded to Naval Aircrewman 1st Class Amanda Alcantar. Petty Officer Alcantar joined the Navy because she did not want to be a part of the crime that was happening around her hometown. She talked about why she enlisted when she was 17 "...because the Navy has given me so much opportunity that I cannot even begin to explain." She spoke about the numerous places she has traveled while serving in the Navy and how the travel inspired her to work on aircraft. With the support of her commanding officer she was able to secure the position she wanted, which ultimately helped her be considered for this award.

To see the award ceremonies for these sailors and learn more about the vital roles they play in the Navy, the public can view the video on the US Navy Memorial's website at http://www.NavyMemorial.org.
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SOURCE U.S. Navy Memorial