Washington, DC - Four Sailors received career-altering and life-changing news recently. In four separate ceremonies, Steelworker 1st Class Brenton Heisserer, Logistics Specialist 1st Class Blanca Sanchez, Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Joe Mendoza, and Construction Mechanic 1st Class Jimie Bartholomew were notified they had been selected as Sailors of the Year (SOY) for Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) for Shore, U.S. Pacific Fleet Sea, U.S. Fleet Forces Sea, and U.S. Navy Reserve, respectively.

These selectees competed against recipients from other commands at the highest echelons of the Navy's SOY program.

"These four Sailors represent our Navy and are examples of the caliber of Sailors serving today," said Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Mike Stevens. "I couldn't be more proud of them and I am thankful for their quiet, humble, servant leadership."

As selectees, they will spend one week in our nation's capital, and during their week-long visit the Sailors and their families will tour historic sites, enjoy special events held in their honor, and will be presented their chief petty officer appointment letters from the CNO during a capstone pinning ceremony hosted by the MCPON.

The SOY program was established in 1972 by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Elmo Zumwalt and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy John Whittet to recognize an individual Sailor who best represented the ever-growing group of dedicated professional Sailors at each command and ultimately the Navy.

When the program began, only the Atlantic and Pacific Fleet Sailors were recognized. Within ten years, the SOY program was expanded to include the shore establishment and Navy Reserve Sailors.