From the Navy Office of Community Outreach

MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Petty Officer 1st Class Latorya Gulley of Corapeake, NC, serving aboard USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77), earned Senior Sailor of the Year for 2015.

The Sailor of the Year Program recognizes superior performance of enlisted personnel emphasizing outstanding achievements, exemplary personal conduct and military bearing, and demonstrated initiative in the performance of duty. This program also motivates personnel to strive for improvement in their assigned duties and leadership.

“It’s such a blessing to receive this honor. I’m truly thankful to my command for the nomination and the mentorship along the way,” said Gulley. “Most of all the support from my Sailors, I couldn’t have made it this far without you.”

As a hospital corpsman, Gulley works as a dental hygienist. She is also the leading Petty Officer responsible for the oversight of the command’s dental health index, preventative dentistry and individual dental readiness. As the sole registered dental hygienist onboard she is responsible for single-handedly completing preventative dentistry procedures and boosting overall patient health.

“Since joining the Navy professionally I’ve obtained many skills within the dental and medical field that has set me up for success upon retirement,” said Gulley. “Personally I have learned to become a better leader and mentor.”

Located in Norfolk, Virginia, the USS George W. Bush and her crew are national assets with strategic impact. It is entrusted with, and responsible for maintaining its material condition. Its core mission areas are challenging, complex and in some cases unique, but as a team they strive for daily excellence.

“Petty Officer Gulley’s leadership and performance place her at the very top of a highly talented group of first class petty officers in a command recognized as the top aircraft carrier in the Atlantic Fleet,” said Capt. William P. Pennington, Commanding Officer of USS George W. Bush. “She is an incredibly talented and self-motivated Sailor who answers every challenge with professionalism and integrity. Her dedication to the success of mission is observed in the consistent accomplishments of her Sailors and this command. Her ability to engage, train, and lead Sailors through diverse leadership roles made a significant, positive impact on the many successes enjoyed by George H. W. Bush and her crew this year. She is an absolute model Sailor whose contributions and performance are at the level of a seasoned chief petty officer.”

Gulley, a 2008 graduate of Gates County High School, is the daughter of Deborah Adkins, a native of Corapeake.

The Navy has given Gulley an opportunity of a lifetime.

“I’ve enjoyed the travel opportunity that I have experienced since joining the Navy as well as the financial stability,” added Gulley.