ARLINGTON, VA., July 7, 2025 – Military Times and the Military Times Foundation are proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Service Members of the Year Awards and the prestigious Chairman’s Award. These annual honors recognize service members from each military branch who have gone far beyond the call of duty, as well as a distinguished civilian who has made a lasting impact on the military and veteran community. The awards will be presented at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. Proceeds from the event benefit a range of nonprofit organizations that serve military families and veterans.
2025 Service Members of the Year:
Soldier of the Year – Army Staff Sgt. David Quay
Staff Sgt. Quay displayed extraordinary bravery in November 2023 when he swam through dangerous, debris-filled waters after a helicopter crash 50 miles offshore to rescue an injured aircrew member. After multiple failed hoist attempts, he stayed with the survivor for 40 minutes in freezing water until further rescue arrived, earning the Soldier’s Medal for Heroism and national acclaim.
Sailor of the Year – Navy Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class Ahmed El Haroun
During a high-stakes piracy response in the Gulf of Aden, BM1 El Haroun helped safely rescue 22 hostages and disarm five pirates without injury. His leadership extended across multiple high-tempo missions aboard the USS Mason, managing fuel transfers, RHIB operations, and flight deck safety under challenging operational conditions.
Airman of the Year – Air Force Capt. Carla Nava
As lead Weapons Systems Officer aboard an F-15E, Capt. Nava engaged multiple Iranian drones during a massive missile barrage in April 2024. Her coordination under fire enabled her all-female crew to achieve Ace status. She is also a national advocate for female aviators, spearheading critical reforms on pregnancy flying waivers and gear access.
Marine of the Year – Marine Maj. Zachary Sessa
Maj. Sessa led the first-ever combat missions involving the F-35C Lightning II during a 2024 deployment aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. His instruction and leadership enabled unprecedented operational achievements while mentoring the next generation of Marine Corps aviation leaders. His squadron was named Marine Fighter Attack Squadron of the Year.
Guardian of the Year – Space Force Sgt. Yuji Moore
Sgt. Moore became the first Guardian and first joint-service member to graduate the U.S. Army Drill Sergeant Academy, earning top honors. He later trained over 480 new Guardians and revamped basic training standards across the force. His dual-instructor certification and leadership have redefined joint-service integration and readiness in the Space Force.
Coast Guard Honorees – Coast Guard Station Washington Search and Rescue Team
Following a catastrophic mid-air collision over the Potomac River in January 2025, the Coast Guard team from Station Washington, under the leadership of Lt. Cmdr. Kim Jenish, executed a seamless and heroic search and recovery operation in icy, hazardous conditions. Their teamwork and compassion in the face of tragedy saved lives and restored order in the wake of disaster.
2025 Chairman’s Award Recipient:
Senator Elizabeth Dole
The Chairman’s Award honors individuals whose public service has made a profound difference. Senator Elizabeth Dole’s decades of leadership—as Cabinet secretary, U.S. senator, and president of the American Red Cross—culminated in her tireless advocacy for military caregivers. Through the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, she has championed visibility, policy change, and support for over 14 million caregivers and their families across America.
“This year’s honorees represent the highest ideals of courage, innovation, and service,” said Michael Reinstein, Chairman of the Military Times Foundation. “From battlefield heroism to groundbreaking advocacy, they remind us of the extraordinary individuals who serve—and support—our military every day. It is our privilege to recognize their impact.”
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. This years event is made in part by our sponsors, Fisher House Foundation, USAA, Leonardo DRS and Veterans Benefit Guide.
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