Yeoman 1st Class Jackson serves aboard Naval Construction Group (NCG) 1 in Port Hueneme, Calif. NCG 1 prepares the Pacific Fleet Naval Construction Force (NCF), or “Seabees,” to conduct expeditionary and deliberate construction through construction training, equipment and maintenance training, and logistical and mobilization support of subordinate units.
“I am very humbled to receive this recognition,” said Jackson, who has been in the Navy for 13 years. “This award means a lot! It shows me that hard work and consistency pays off.”
The Sailor of the Year Program recognizes the superior performance of enlisted personnel, emphasizing outstanding achievements, exemplary personal conduct and military bearing, and demonstrated initiative in the performance of duty. This program also motivates personnel to strive for improvement in their assigned duties and leadership.
Yeomen perform administrative and clerical work. They receive visitors, answer telephone calls and sort incoming mail among many other administrative duties. They type, organize files and operate modern office equipment at sea and ashore.
“As the Leading Petty Officer for NCG 1’s administrative department, I’m responsible for 30 sailors, along with providing administrative support for 340 active, reserve and civilian personal and 10 subordinate units.” said Jackson. “My other duties are as the Command’s training team leader and assistant drug and alcohol program adviser.”
Jackson, a 2002 graduate of Berkmar High School, is currently enrolled at Thomas Edison University, working towards a bachelor of science in communication. His mother, Kathy Fields resides in Lawrenceville, Ga.
“I enjoy serving my nation and giving back for all the opportunities that I have. The navy has helped me grow into a mature man through the structure and discipline you have to have to be a sailor.” said Jackson. “I also enjoy traveling around the world and being an ambassador for the Navy, which has also allowed me to do more for others.”
Jackson’s Department Lead Chief Petty Officer Senior Chief Jenean Dickens said that Jackson is the type of Sailor that sets the example and leads from the front. “
“Other Sailors seek him out for his mentorship and guidance because of that, and I’m looking forward to seeing his continued success in the Navy,” added Dickens.
“I’d also like to thank all of my mentors who have guided me to this point, the man above because without him this wouldn’t be possible and also the sailors who have trusted in me and allowed me to lead and mentor them.” said Jackson.
“Why Being There Matters”
On our planet, more than 70 percent of which is covered by water, being there means having the ability to act from the sea. The Navy is uniquely positioned to be there; the world’s oceans give the Navy the power to protect America’s interests anywhere, and at any time. Your Navy protects and defends America on the world’s oceans. Navy ships, submarines, aircraft and, most importantly, tens of thousands of America’s finest young men and women are deployed around the world doing just that. They are there now. They will be there when we are sleeping tonight. They will be there every Saturday, Sunday and holiday this year. They are there around the clock, far from our shores, defending America at all times.
Thank you very much for your support of the men and women in U.S. Navy, deployed around the clock and ready to protect and defend America on the world’s oceans. (January 2016)
