Seaman Recruit Kane Kratz, Division 158, graduated as the top Sailor from Recruit Training Command earning the Military Excellence Award May 19.

Kratz, of Johnstown, Colorado, joined the Navy to serve his country and to make himself a better man along with more possibilities to travel the world. He was assigned the rate of Electronics Technician (Nuclear).

The Navy Club of the United States Military Excellence Award is the top award presented to the No. 1 recruit of their graduating training group. The MEA is awarded to the recruit that best exemplifies the qualities of enthusiasm, devotion to duty, military bearing and teamwork. The award placed him at the pinnacle of today's newest Sailors. Kratz is awarded a flag letter of commendation.

"This is an unbelievable honor that I never would have expected. I wish to thank my father for his endless support as well as my Recruit Division Commanders for directing me toward excellence in training and becoming a Sailor," said Kratz.

Looking back on his training, he recognizes Gas Turbine System Technician Mechanical 1st Class Jacob Larson as an RDC he credits for helping him to achieve this recognition.

"Petty Officer Larson was relentless on us and consistently pushing us so we could strive to be our best. He would never go lax on us," said Kratz. "Boot camp is simple, but it isn't easy. Just do as you're told at all times, which is something not everyone can do."

After graduation, Kratz will attend a six-month ET rating course in Charleston, South Carolina followed by another year of additional training. During his schooling, he will learn to perform duties in nuclear propulsion plants operating reactor control, propulsion and power generation systems.

Boot camp is approximately eight weeks and all enlistees into the U.S. Navy begin their careers at the command. Training includes physical fitness, seamanship, firearms, firefighting and shipboard damage control along with lessons in Navy heritage and core values, teamwork and discipline. About 30,000 to 40,000 recruits graduate annually from RTC and begin their Navy careers.

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