ARLINGTON, VA., May 28, 2025 – Military Times and the Military Times Foundation have announced that Air Force Capt. Carla Nava has been recognized with the “Airman of the Year” award for her extraordinary leadership and composure during a large-scale missile and drone attack against Israel in April 2024. This prestigious award, presented annually for the past 24 years, honors one outstanding service member from each branch who has demonstrated exemplary military service going beyond the call of duty. All proceeds from the annual Military Times Service Members of the Year Awards event are donated to a variety of veterans service organizations supporting the military community and their families.
As the F-15E Lead Weapons Systems Officer, Capt. Nava and her pilot scrambled to intercept multiple swarms of one-way attack drones launched by Iran in a barrage of more than 300 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and unmanned aircraft. Operating under the cover of darkness and at low altitude, Capt. Nava expertly optimized the aircraft’s sensors and engaged their first target within 30 minutes of takeoff.
As other aircraft exhausted their munitions, Nava and her pilot advanced their formation. She coordinated an emergency aerial refueling plan for her wingman while delaying her own refuel to successfully neutralize two additional drones. Nava continued to lead her formation, enabling successful engagements of five more drones between her and her wingman—earning the pair the distinction of becoming the first all-female crew to achieve Ace status.
In addition to her distinguished combat performance, Capt. Nava has emerged as a leading advocate for female aviators. She represented her unit at the DAGGER ATHENA convention, helping address critical issues such as flight uniforms, equipment, and pregnancy flying waivers. She also spearheaded the “Flying While Pregnant Roadshow” at RAF Mildenhall to educate and support fellow female service members.
“Capt. Carla Nava’s valor in the face of overwhelming odds and her advocacy on behalf of female aviators embody the spirit of this award,” said Michael Reinstein, Chairman of Military Times Foundation. “We are honored to recognize her with the ‘Airman of the Year’ award for her trailblazing service in combat and continued impact on the force.”
The Military Times Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to recognizing and honoring the exceptional service of U.S. Armed Forces personnel. The Military Times Service Members of the Year Awards ceremony has become one of Washington D.C.’s premier events, attended by congressional, military, and community leaders. Since 2019, the Military Times and its Foundation have donated over $20 million in cash and media value to more than 150 military and veteran organizations, including Fisher House, Children of Fallen Patriots, TAPS, and Objective Zero.
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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