Longhorns' Pilarski Named Region's Sailor of the year.

Onboard the USS Midway in San Diego, CA, Commander, Navy Region Southwest (CNRSW), Rear Adm. Len Hering announced the Navy Southwest Region’s Sailor of the Year (SOY). After his opening remarks, the admiral recognized each of the SOYs and presented them with a plaque and gift bag. He then announced Aviation Systems Warfare Operator 1st Class (SW/AW) Michael Pilarski as CNRSW’s SOY.

After the initial shock wore off, Pilarski, stationed at Naval Air Station Fallon’s Search and Rescue unit, said it was an honor to receive the award. “I’m very proud to represent all the Sailors in the region,” he said. “I know there are a lot of guys out there who deserve it. I just hope and pray that I can do them proud.”

Pilarski’s wife, Clara, stood by his side after the announcement and commented about how she felt when her husband was named SOY. “I’m so proud of him. Right now, I feel like I’m going to faint,” she said. “He’s such a hard worker and he deserves it.”

According to CMDCM (SW/AW) Craig Morey, CNRSW Command Master Chief, the CNRSW SOY process is simple. Sailors of the Year from within the region are invite3d to San Diego along with command master chiefs from across the region. The regional SOY packets are then reviewed and each SOY is interviewed.

“The hard part is this is the best of the best of the region, so how do you figure out who the best of the best is,” Morey asked.  “It’s always difficult and quite a challenge, but it’s always fun.”

Pilarski advises other Sailors looking to achieve Sailor of the Year to look out for their troops. “No matter what you’re doing to get yourself there, keep your troops right there with you,” he said. “That way when you arrive they’re there with you. If you let them down, they’re not going to make it.”

Morey couldn’t agree more. “Continue to lead from the front,” Morey said.  “Continue to take care of your Sailors, and if you do that before you know it you will be Sailor of the Year. It’s taking care of your Sailors that gets you anywhere in this Navy."