ARLINGTON, VA., March 22, 2023 – Military Times and the Military Times Foundation have announced that U.S. Army Master Sergeant Justin Bolin is the 2023 “Soldier of the Year.” This prestigious award has been presented for the past 22 years and honors one outstanding military member from each branch of service who has demonstrated exemplary military service going beyond the call of duty. The non-profit organization returns all proceeds from the annual Military Times Service Members of the Year Award event to an array of veterans service organizations which help support the military community and their families.
Currently assigned to Vilsek, Germany, MSG Bolin is the Operations Sergeant Major for the 2nd Squadron of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment. He previously supported V Corp’s Operation Victory Vigilance, in which the 2nd Cav stationed on NATO’s eastern flank to deter Russian aggression, assure allies and partners, and defend NATO if required. MSG Bolin has been instrumental in developing a concept in support of NATO’s eastern flank, where he is helping to train Ukrainian Armed Forces to contain Russian aggression in Ukraine.
MSG Bolin has demonstrated extraordinary service to his country, including his participation in Operation Atlantic Sentry-Turkey, a strategic mission to ensure key facilities had the proper oversight from skilled personnel. He also was part of Operations Allied Refuge/Welcome, in which he coordinated with outside government agencies to ensure critical infrastructure and sites were ready to receive displaced Afghans. Earlier in his career, Bolin deployed to Iraq twice, the first time as a gunner for 1st Squadron 10th Cavalry Regiment (the “Buffalo Soldiers”), and the second time as a Mounted Team Leader for 2nd Squadron 7th Cav (“Garry Owen”).
Apart from his military service, MSG Bolin is active in his community as a volunteer for the USO and MWR, including taking part in the annual Thanks for Thanksgiving event that serves all of USAG-Bavaria. He also dedicates time as a mentor to local Vilsek High School JROTC cadets.
MSG Bolin’s outstanding performance as a military leader and dedication to his community exemplify the highest standards of military service. He is a shining example of selflessness, professionalism, and commitment to duty. His selection as “Soldier of the Year” is a tribute to his exemplary service, and he serves as an inspiration to all members of the armed forces.
“It is a privilege to recognize Master Sergeant Justin Bolin as the Soldier of the Year,” said Michael Reinstein, Chairman of Military Times Foundation. “MSG Bolin has demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership, going beyond the call of duty to serve his country and protect our allies. We are grateful for his service and proud to support the military community through our annual Service Members of the Year Award event.”
The Military Times Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) established to recognize, salute and highlight the exemplary service of active duty personnel serving in each branch of the U.S. Armed Services.
The annual Military Times Service Members of the Year Award has grown into a much-anticipated event. The awards ceremony has become one of Washington D.C.’s A-list events attended by congressional, military and community leaders. Since 2019 Military Times and the Military Times Foundation have donated over $15 million in cash and media value to support over 150 military and veteran service organizations, such as Fisher House, Children of Fallen Patriots, TAPS, Objective Zero and others.
The full story about Master Sergeant Justin Bolin can be found at ArmyTimes.com
***
About Military Times
Service members and their families rely on MilitaryTimes.com as a trusted, independent source for news and information on the most important issues affecting their careers and personal lives including, branch updates, financial services, pay and benefits, healthcare, education, transition resources, and more. MilitaryTimes.com is a part of the Sightline Media Group who also owns Army Times, Marine Corps Times, Navy Times, Air Force Times, Federal Times, Defense News, and C4ISRNET.
Contact
Kelly Facer
703-585-9523
kfacer@mco.com
servicemembersoftheyear.org
# # #