Leaders are plentiful in the U.S. Navy, with most enlistees achieving the ranks of petty officers or higher.

True leaders have the ability to inspire their junior enlisted through various means, be it leading from the front, working to help improve their Sailors' careers, or by improving themselves and showing their Sailors anything is possible by putting their mind toward their goals.

Information Systems Technician 1st Class Allison Torres, stationed aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), is one such person whose hard work led to her selection as George Washington's Senior Sailor of the Quarter (SSOQ) for 1st quarter of fiscal year 2017.

"It's an honor to be selected as SSOQ," said Torres. "I know it wouldn't have been possible without my junior Sailors I lead everyday who do the hard tasks, and my chain of command for my nomination."

Torres performs various duties from enlisted section leader to the leading petty officer (LPO) of 33 Sailors. She also obtained her bachelor's degree through University of Maryland University College in networking and security.

Ten first classes competed for the SSOQ, one from each department. The SSOQ award is given to first classes who exhibit devotion to duty, quality leadership, the ability to excel, and the ability to go above and beyond to personify the Navy's Core Values.

Torres' career has taken her to many different ships and squadrons including Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ-131), Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station Far East (NTCS FE) Yokosuka, the destroyer USS Bulkeley (DDG 84), Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, and Navy Information Operations Command (NIOC) Norfolk. Torres said she believes that every duty station she's been to has helped her evolve as a Sailor.

"Each of these commands helped me grow in my development," said Torres. "I made petty officer second class at VAQ-131 and made petty officer first class in NIOC Norfolk. Being a second class for almost six years gave me time to learn my rate, understand the history and importance of Navy traditions, and learn how to properly lead my Sailors."

Torres' hard work and determination has earned her the praise of Chief Warrant Officer 4 Carl Smith, the ship's communications officer.

"Torres is a remarkable leader and a qualified LPO of combat systems data support systems division," said Smith. "She mentors and trains junior Sailors very effectively and has the traits of a chief petty officer with years of experience. We are very proud of her and are looking forward to what she does next."

Support from the chain of command, the Sailors she works with, and her love for her family continue to inspire her.

"Being the Sailor I am couldn't be possible without the dedication of my active duty husband and my children."

A strong support network has helped Torres to become the leader she is today. It has given her opportunities to lead, guide and mentor Sailors because ultimately she is training her reliefs.

For more information about the Sailor of the Quarter program, go to GWINST 1700.2C on the GW home page.

Join the conversation with GW online at http://www.facebook.com/USSGW and http://www.twitter.com/GW_CVN73.

For more information, visit http://www.navy.mil, http://www.facebook.com/usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from USS George Washington (CVN 73), visit http://www.navy.mil/.