ARLINGTON, VA., May 28, 2025 – Military Times and the Military Times Foundation have announced that Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class Ahmed El Haroun has been named “Sailor of the Year” for his courageous actions and exceptional leadership during a high-stakes pirate interdiction operation and a demanding deployment aboard the USS Mason. This prestigious award, presented annually for the past 24 years, recognizes one outstanding service member from each military branch whose service goes far beyond the call of duty. Proceeds from the annual Military Times Service Members of the Year Awards event benefit numerous nonprofit organizations supporting military families and veterans.
In November 2023, pirates boarded the merchant vessel Central Park in the Gulf of Aden in an attempted hijacking. USS Mason responded swiftly, deploying its Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) team via helicopter. Among them was BM1 El Haroun, who was instrumental in disarming five pirates, detaining them for questioning, and helping to safely release 22 hostages—all without injury.
El Haroun’s actions during the piracy response were just one example of his operational excellence. As the lead for a team of five Boatswain’s Mates and 19 deck seamen, he oversaw 39 deck spaces and successfully managed numerous complex operations, including 28 RHIB missions, over 1,000 MH-60R flight hours, and the transfer of 6.24 million gallons of fuel and 733 pallets during 24 replenishments. He also ensured the USS Mason completed two transits through the Suez Canal and stood critical watches during multiple missile engagements, maintaining the safety of the crew and bridge team throughout.
“Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class Ahmed El Haroun’s bravery in the face of piracy and his unrelenting leadership throughout deployment set an extraordinary example of Navy professionalism,” said Michael Reinstein, Chairman of the Military Times Foundation. “We are proud to honor him as our ‘Sailor of the Year.’ His service exemplifies the courage and competence we aim to recognize through this award.”
The Military Times Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) committed to honoring outstanding U.S. service members. Its annual Service Members of the Year Awards event has become a highlight on Washington D.C.’s calendar, attended by top congressional, military, and civilian leaders. Since 2019, the Military Times and its Foundation have donated over $25 million in cash and media support to more than 150 organizations serving military and veteran communities, such as 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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