Sunday, July 19, 2009

NC of the Year


Hey there Shipmates,

Wanted to tell you of a great opportunity I recently had to recognize one of our great Sailors. On Friday, 26 June, I found myself onboard USS NITZE with none other than NC1 Verner, the ships Senior Sailor of the Year. You may remember NC1, she was also one of the finalists for the USFF Sea Sailor of the Year competition as she was the SURFLANT Sea SOY.

NC1 Verner was recognized by the Navy Counselor Association at their recent symposium as the Navy Counselor of the Year to go along with her many achievements.

When I met with her this day, I was accompanied by some very big fans of NC1’s. My staff CMC, CMDCM Andre Green, my Administrative Assistant, YN2 Michelle Flood, the Fleet Counselor for USFF, NCCM Kevin Sullivan and the SUFLANT Force Navy Counselor. While meeting with NC1, I asked her why she thought she has been so successful and her reply was;
"For me, being successful within my career has come with a lot of hard work and dedication. In fact, it has meant a lot of hard work and dedication from many others as well. My faith has been paramount; and the commitment from my shipmates, family, and friends has come second to none. Personally, I am driven. Professionally, I am focused. Spiritually, I am grounded. Socially, still a work in progress, although I do believe that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

I've always been driven and have tried to do everything within the best of my ability. Realizing that time passes by quickly, what else do we have to show about who we are than the contributions we make today. To me, life should be filled with purpose. Why do anything if not the intent to be committed and do it well? I am not satisfied with being mediocre at anything. Someone said it best, "You either meet my standard, or exceed my standard!" I choose to do both!

Obviously, being successful isn't an easy task. Assuming numerous collateral duties in addition to my job as Independent Command Career Counselor has been very challenging to say the least. However, I do believe the approach we take toward helping accomplish the mission and reaching our goals is what makes it all so rewarding. My mindset is this: Mind over matter; Obstacle – Resolution; Challenge – Overcome; Pessimist – Realist; Critical – Ignore; Constructive – Listen; Tired - Pray for strength; Laziness - Not an option…

At the end of the day, I know that I have given my all. Hopefully my efforts will have helped a shipmate reach a new height within their career, within their life, and or to find their purpose."

Shipmate, we’re all proud of you and look forward to hearing more about your interactions with Sailors! Bravo Zulu – Fleet sends.