SOY 2003 successful steps: every year, four sailors are selected to act as naval ambassadors, because they stand a step or two above their peers—models of what the ideal sailor should be - CNO

All Hands, Nov, 2003 by M.J. Padluck

THIS YEAR, AFTER MUCH DELIBERATION, Chief Machinist's Mate (SW/AW) Phillip Dennis had the honor of being chosen as the Pacific Fleet Sailor of the Year (SOY), Chief Machinist's Mate (SW) Marc Medina as Chief of Naval Operations Shore SOY, Chief Aircrew Survival Equipmentman (SEAL) Peter Musselman as the Atlantic Fleet SOY and Chief Electronics Technician (SW) Mark Antoniazzi as the SOY for Naval Reserve Forces.

Reading the biographies of these Sailors, it would seem that the paths leading each to this achievement were as unique as the individuals. However, when asked about steps that elevated them, the replies of all four men had a familiar ring to them.

Perhaps not in exactly the same words, but each SOY stressed the importance of setting goals, seeking out responsibility, being part of a great team, supporting the chain of command, finding successful mentors, fostering junior Sailors' abilities, and having strong family support.

Musselman, whose new son Andrew was born just in time to see his father's SOY selection, spoke of the importance of his family. "My wife has supported me throughout my career--no matter what," he said. "She knows that this is what I love to do. There are a lot of guys out there without that base of support, and it makes life hard for them. Without Lori, there is no doubt in my mind that the journey to this point in my career would have been more difficult, if not impossible."

But, even difficult paths can be surmounted. Often, circumstances that appear to halt a Sailor's progress prove to be only a slight detour in their ascent. Take it from Antoniazzi, who was rapidly climbing up the ranks until personal reasons led him away from active service.

"When I transferred to the Reserves, I did so because I really loved the Navy and just wasn't ready to leave. I didn't quite know what to expect from part-time service," recalled Antoniazzi. "But after looking, I found many of the same opportunities open to me, as well as a few new ones."

Like his fellow active-duty SOYs, Antoniazzi credits his success to the junior Sailors. "Any accolades or awards I've received are a direct result of my ability to effectively develop, train and instruct the next generation of Sailors," he continued. "The greatest thing about being an instructor is that through your students you can help not only maintain the Navy, but also transform it. Today's young Sailors are really bright men and women from such diverse backgrounds. As an instructor, I have to stay ahead of new developments in the field, and really go beyond the basics to give them knowledge they desire. In turn, this helps me be a better Sailor."

Of course, any Sailor aspiring to become an effective leader must first learn to be a good follower.

"Teamwork is an integral part of having a successful career. There's no way one person can cover every base, every time. I know that I wouldn't be where I am today without the guys I work with," Medina said. "When I think of how a great team works, I'm reminded of that poem about the footprints in the sand. There are two sets of prints until times of difficulty, and then there is only one set, because someone is carrying you. That's what teammates do--motivate, educate, and when necessary, carry each other."

All four SOYs agreed that the support they received at their commands aided in their treks towards excellence, but they also extolled the significance of individual accountability.

"Seeking out and accepting responsibility is the only path to respect," said Dennis. "Sailors should get involved at the command level. Go out and get qualified for everything that you can, and then ask to qualify for watchstations normally associated with senior positions."

Those hoping to claim the title in future years may ask themselves what steps they should take to be the next Sailor of the Year. Dennis' advice is don't try.

"Instead of trying to be the Sailor of the Year, try to be great at what you do," he recommends. "Set goals for yourself, find a good mentor, stick to your plan, and good things will happen."

Antoniazzi echoed Dennis' advice and urged young Sailors to seek out diversity in their careers.

"There are so many opportunities and experiences available in the Navy today, but many of them have to be sought outside of a Sailor's chosen field," advised Antoniazzi. "Young Sailors also need to seek out the advice of successful senior Sailors and follow it. Not just to achieve the next higher rank or to be labeled the 'person in charge,' but for personal satisfaction. At the end of their naval service, Sailors should be able to look back on their careers with a true sense of accomplishment."

Repeated frequently by most over-achievers, the advice offered by the SOYs of 2003 may sound trite or hackneyed to some readers. Yet, it is precisely because of the continued endorsements that these steps can be trusted to provide sure footing to all Sailors climbing the steep ascent toward success.

Atlantic Fleet Sailor of the Year 2003

Name: PRC(SEAL) Peter Musselman