ARLINGTON, VA., February 22, 2024 – Military Times and the Military Times Foundation have announced that Personnel Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Alexander Boston, a member of the USS Carney (DDG 64), has been named “Sailor of the Year.” This prestigious award has been presented for the past 23 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.
Prior to joining the Navy in 2010, Boston had earned two degrees and signed with the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars. With his passion for leadership, he quickly became a source of mentorship and guidance who junior sailors gravitate toward for advice.
In his role as the Command Pay and Personnel Administrator, Boston is directly responsible for processing administrative and disbursing entitlements for a substantial personnel roster. Beyond his administrative duties, Boston actively engages in boosting ship morale through leading fundraisers and organizing events. His involvement in essential ship programs, such as the Command Resilience Team and Drug and Alcohol Prevention Association, showcases his commitment to fostering and maintaining a healthy and positive ship environment.
Boston’s impact extends beyond the ship, having contributed over 350 hours of community service and earning the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. Notably, he played a transformative role in mentoring a struggling sailor who he was able to lead through a positive transformation that was eventually recognized with an award and promotion. Throughout his 13 years in the Navy, Boston has amassed several accolades, including the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and the Navy Good Conduct Medal.
Commanding Officer Jeremy Robertson said “Boston’s passion for keeping the ship mission-ready has been critical… he is one of our greatest assets to the team.”
“Personnel Specialist 1st Class Alexander Boston exemplifies exceptional leadership and dedication aboard the USS Carney,” said Michael Reinstein, Chairman of Military Times Foundation. “His transformative mentorship, community service, and commitment make him a standout asset, embodying the highest standards of military service.”
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 $20 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.
Sponsors of the event include Fisher House Foundation, Veteran Benefits Guide, Leonardo DRS, IHG Army Hotels, The Nationals and Delta. For more information on the selection process, history of the award, past winners, and other details, visit: servicemembersoftheyear.org
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Kelly Facer
Military Times Foundation
703-585-9523
kfacer@mco.com
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