Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, Adm. Michelle Howard announced the 2016 CNE-CNA Shore Sailor, Sea Sailor, and Junior Sailor of the Year during a ceremony held at Naval Support Activity, Naples, Capodichino, Jan. 27.

The announcement was the culminating event following a week of activities including tours of area bases and facilities, physical training, a rigorous Sailor of the Year board process, as well as cultural events and activities for the finalists.

Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Kevin Pulley, from Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet, MCC TLAM Det. Naples, Italy was named Sea Sailor of the Year.

Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Kenneth Terrell, from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, Naples was named Shore Sailor of the Year.

Yeoman 2nd Class Eric Horne, from U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, Naples was named Junior Sailor of the Year.

Quotes:

"The Sailors in this room today are adding to our legacy with their professionalism, dedication, and leadership. I would be remiss if I failed to mention the significant others who are with each of you today and those who are at home and couldn't make it to Naples this week. They serve as the backbone for all of our Sailors. Earning awards like these would not be possible without their support."

"I want to tell you all that I am proud to be here and serve with each of you. Good luck moving forward to our winners; you will undoubtedly represent the NAVEUR/NAVAF team well." - Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, Adm. Michelle Howard

"I am humbled to be a part of such a thorough process, and we were pleased to host the Sailors and their spouses. With so many Sailors that are operating at a high level of excellence, the Navy is the big winner. Each nominee was well equipped and well prepared for this week of recognition and celebration of our best and brightest." - U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, Fleet Master Chief Raymond D. Kemp Sr.

Quick Facts:

Pulley will advance to compete next month at the Navy Sea Sailor of the Year competition at U.S. Fleet Forces Command.

Terrell will advance to compete later this spring at the Navy Shore Sailor of the Year competition at the Chief of Naval Operations.

Sailor of the Year candidates travelled to Naples from across the theater to compete.

During the week, in addition to the competition, Sailor of the Year candidates visited cultural sites including Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius, attended physical training sessions with U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa Fleet Master Chief Raymond D. Kemp Sr. and were involved in several other area activities.

Adm. Elmo Zumwalt, former chief of naval operations, created the Sailor of the Year program in 1972 to recognize outstanding Sailors at sea. The following year, the Shore Sailor of the Year program was introduced.

U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, headquartered in Naples, Italy, oversees joint and naval operations in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.

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For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit http://www.navy.mil/.