Seaman Recruit Ashlee Maduro, Division 108, graduated as the top Sailor from Recruit Training Command (RTC), earning the Military Excellence Award, March 2.

Maduro, 23, said she joined the Navy to join the ranks of the most kind-hearted people she knows.

"Throughout my life, my experiences with military personnel have led me to believe that it takes true selflessness to serve in the armed forces," Maduro said. "Sure, a lot of people serve for personal growth and gain, but the Navy in particular has a way of indoctrinating you into a culture of sacrifice; one that I wanted to take part in."

Maduro is originally from Kingston, Jamaica, but resided in the Bronx, New York. She graduated from the University at Albany with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and English studies. She worked as public relations coordinator before enlisting.

She was assigned the rate of aerographer's mate.

The Navy Club of the United States Military Excellence Award (MEA) is the top award presented to the top 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 places her at the pinnacle of today's newest Sailors. Maduro was also awarded a flag letter of commendation.

"Winning the MEA was unexpected, because I came to RTC with the goal of graduating without incident," Maduro said. "I planned to do my best, but wanted to avoid being singled out for any reason. Two months later, and I'm at the top of my training group, and I have no idea how I got here."

Maduro credited her recruit division commanders, Chief Hospital Corpsman Wale Ologun, Machinist's Mate 1st Class Scott Hosmer and Machinist's Mate 1st Class Richelle Roberson, for their leadership and guidance.

She also recognized Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Steven Almquist, Division 107 second RDC, for motivating her to do her best.

"I'd like to thank Petty Officer Almquist for recognizing my leadership qualities and refusing to let me fly below the radar," Maduro said. "He made me a positive example and resource for my fellow recruits and dared me to live up to it."

Maduro's bonds to her shipmates grew stronger during an especially trying time.

"The hardest part of boot camp, for me, was losing a loved one while here and having very little time to grieve," Maduro said. "But having my shipmates rally around me made me cognizant of the bonds that I have formed here."

After graduation, Maduro will attend the aerographer's mate "A" School at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi. Aerographer's collect, measure and analyze the elements of the physical environment (land, sea, air, space) and land/sea interface. They synthesize a vast array of oceanographic and meteorological data and in situ observations and measurements to produce forecasts and warnings in support of safety of flight and navigation, as well as naval and joint operations and missions.

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.

For more news from Recruit Training Command, visit http://www.navy.mil/.