PATUXENT RIVER NAVAL AIR STATION, MD – The Naval Air Station Patuxent River has officially announced its Sailors of the Year, spotlighting the premier achievements of its enlisted personnel for 2023. This annual recognition highlights those who have shown exceptional performance, professional conduct, and significant contributions to their command and the broader mission of the Navy.
NAS Patuxent River Commanding Officer, Capt. Douglas Burfield, commended the sailors for their unwavering dedication and impact. “I am regularly impressed by the commitment our Pax Sailors show to their command, their Navy, and each other,” said Burfield. He underscored the selected Sailors of the Year as embodiments of these virtues, expressing pride in their accomplishments.
The Sailor of the Year program, instituted by the chief of naval operations, is designed to acknowledge the superior performance of enlisted personnel from pay grades E-1 to E-6. It emphasizes attributes such as outstanding achievement, professionalism, exemplary personal conduct, command impact, mission contribution, and dedication to self-improvement.
Highlighted Achievements
Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Quinton Dotson was named NAS Pax River Sailor of the Year. Serving as the Command Climate Specialist, Dotson has been a pivotal figure in advising on Equal Opportunity matters and handling harassment and discrimination complaints. His efforts have significantly enhanced the command climate, including reestablishing the Command Climate Specialist role, leading resiliency training, and improving various climate factors throughout the base.
Chief Yeoman Priscilla Nelson praised Dotson’s leadership and influence, noting, “HM1 Dotson is an inspirational deckplate leader who seizes every opportunity to lead, mentor, and challenge every Sailor.” His achievements include leading the Navy Ball Committee and raising significant funds for Navy Birthday celebrations, reflecting his comprehensive impact on the command and its personnel.
Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Courage Falayi was recognized as the NAS Pax River Junior Sailor of the Year. In her role as a pay and personnel clerk, Falayi has been instrumental in managing the financial and service records of command service members. Her efforts have led to outstanding ratings during inspections and have ensured accurate and efficient pay and personnel transactions. Falayi’s leadership in organizing fundraising events and her dedication to command goals have been particularly commended by Nelson, who highlighted her as an outstanding junior leader.
Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Chelcey Justiniano received the title of NAS Pax River Bluejacket of the Year. Justiniano, serving as the Search and Rescue (SAR) Duty Officer, has shown exceptional leadership and expertise, contributing to the station’s 100% SAR availability for critical operations. Her work in medical readiness and coordination with community partners for SAR missions underscored her significant impact on the command.
A Culture of Excellence
The achievements of these sailors underscore the Navy’s commitment to excellence, professionalism, and leadership. Through their dedication, NAS Patuxent River continues to excel in its mission, supported by the outstanding contributions of its personnel. The recognition of these Sailors of the Year reflects the Navy’s broader commitment to honor those who go above and beyond in their service and dedication to their command and country.