Exemplary Naval Educators Honored for Outstanding Contribution
In a ceremony held on February 19, 2026, in Pensacola, Florida, the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) celebrated its top instructors of 2025. These five servicemen and women were recognized for their exceptional dedication and performance in military instruction.
Rear Adm. Greg Huffman, commenting on the significance of the instructors, stated, “Our instructors deliver the foundation of our Navy by shaping every battle-ready Sailor that we deliver to the Fleet.” The awardees symbolize the Navy’s high standards of excellence.
The Military Instructors of the Year award is a prestigious honor acknowledging Navy and Marine Corps instructors for their remarkable instructional and leadership skills. Among nearly 6,500 competitors, these instructors have shown exemplary commitment across various branches of the U.S. military, from land to space.
Speaking on the accolade, Capt. Gregory Tiner, NETC chief of staff, remarked, “The accomplishments of our instructors of the year are a direct reflection of the teamwork and dedication to the mission at each of our commands.” This recognition underscores the vital role instructors play in maintaining and enhancing naval capabilities.
2025 MIOY Awardees:
- Damage Controlman 2nd Class Crystal Avila, Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois.
- Damage Controlman 1st Class Anna C. Dickin, Surface Warfare Schools Command, Engineering Learning Site, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
- Chief Hull Technician Librado Najera III, Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois.
- Lt. Augusta L. Garies, Mariner Skills Training Center Pacific, San Diego, California.
- Capt. Phillip S. Haly (USMC), NROTC Unit Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.
Gunner’s Mate 1st Class Johnelle Jones, a previous MIOY awardee from 2024, shared her experiences at the Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois. “The greatest reward of being a leading petty officer is having a direct impact on the lives of the Sailors that you work with,” Jones expressed, highlighting the importance of mentorship in her role.
NETC stands as the largest shore command in the U.S. Navy, responsible for recruiting and training service members. With over 24,000 personnel training more than 33,000 sailors daily at its 251 sites, NETC plays a pivotal role in preparing battle-ready service men and women.
Rear Adm. Huffman emphasized the multifaceted role of military instructors, stating, “The role of a military instructor demands far more than technical expertise. It requires patience, leadership and an unwavering commitment to developing others.”
“These instructors and their teammates set the standard for training excellence and play a critical role in strengthening the Fleet, ensuring our Navy remains ready to meet current and future challenges.”
