ARLINGTON, VA., July 7, 2025 – Military Times and the Military Times Foundation are proud to announce that Marine Corps Maj. Zachary Sessa has been named the 2025 “Military Times Marine of the Year” for his groundbreaking leadership and distinguished performance during the first-ever F-35C Lightning II combat operations. This prestigious annual award honors one exceptional service member from each branch whose contributions reflect extraordinary dedication and impact. Proceeds from the Military Times Service Members of the Year Awards benefit nonprofit organizations supporting military families and veterans.
Maj. Sessa, 33, served as the lead weapons and tactics instructor for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314 (VMFA-314) during its historic 2024 deployment aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. In November, under his guidance, the squadron executed the F-35C Lightning II’s first combat missions, striking Houthi weapons storage facilities in Yemen in response to attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Sessa flew critical nighttime combat sorties while mentoring the next generation of F-35 leaders and instructors.
As a third-generation aviator, Sessa brought a deep-rooted passion for flight and service to his role. He was instrumental in qualifying multiple section leads, division leads, and mission commanders, helping build a high-performing team ready to meet operational demands. His leadership helped VMFA-314 earn the title “Marine Fighter Attack Squadron of the Year.”
“Maj. Zachary Sessa’s trailblazing contributions in the F-35C Lightning II’s first combat operations exemplify the Marine Corps’ highest ideals of courage, innovation, and excellence,” said Michael Reinstein, Chairman of the Military Times Foundation. “We are honored to recognize him as the 2025 ‘Military Times Marine of the Year’”
The Military Times Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) dedicated to honoring exemplary service and advancing causes that support military personnel, veterans, and their families. Proceeds from the Service Members of the Year Awards benefit nonprofit organizations serving these communities across the country.
Sponsors of the event include Fisher House Foundation, USAA, Veteran Benefits Guide, Leonardo DRS and Capital Bank. For more information on the selection process, history of the award, past winners, and other details, visit: servicemembersoftheyear.org
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Military Times Foundation
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