Courtesy Photo | Airman Apprentice Jack Stevens graduated as the top Sailor from Recruit Training...... read more read more
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GREAT LAKES (NNS) – Airman Apprentice Jack Stevens graduated as the top Sailor from Recruit Training Command, earning the Military Excellence Award (MEA) January 9, 2025.
Stevens, from Mission Viejo, California, said he enlisted for a variety of reasons, including the opportunity to alter his career path.
“I had an office job in Orange County, and there was a part of me that wanted to get outside of the bubble I was in,” Stevens said. “I wanted new opportunities and new experiences. Even though I tried college and was trying to do some different things, I just didn’t like where I was at. I realized that joining the military would be a good option for me and allow me to do something completely outside of what I was used to. My grandfather was also in the military, and hearing his stories made me realize the value of serving your country.”
Stevens, 19, graduated from Capistrano Valley High School, and was a member of the varsity cross country and track teams and a three-year captain. Before joining the Navy, Stevens was a legal assistant at a law firm.
The Navy Club of the United States Military Excellence Award is the top award presented to the recruit that best exemplifies the qualities of enthusiasm, devotion to duty, military bearing, and teamwork. The award places him at the pinnacle of today’s newest Sailors. Stevens is awarded a flag letter of commendation as part of his recognition.
The award, according to Stevens, is the best possible first step to start his naval career.
“When I arrived at boot camp, I didn’t even know you could win awards,” said Stevens. “I was surprised when I learned about what you could achieve, but I still didn’t expect to win or be recognized for anything. I guess I just assumed that out of all the recruits that were here, there would always be someone better than me or more deserving. I just tried to keep my head down and make sure I gave everything my all. When my RDCs announced I’d won, I was completely shocked. It just goes to show that anything is possible if you have the right frame of mind and concentrate on the day to day instead of getting too far ahead of yourself.”
Stevens’ RDCs (Recruit Division Commanders) are Chief Gas Turbine Systems Technician – Mechanical (GSMC) Ruenna Montenegro, Mineman 1st Class (MN1) Damien Leslie and Quartermaster 1st Class (QM1) Philip Simonsen, and they guided him through the 10-week process.
“My RDCs were the ones who kept me motivated throughout my time here,” he said. “They were always there to make sure I was giving it my all and not just going through the motions. Even during the physical fitness tests, they were always right there to make sure I pushed through the pain and didn’t quit on myself. I was already a good runner, but it’s about getting the most out of yourself. I’m appreciative that they always made sure I was striving for my full potential.”
Along with his RDCs, Stevens found inspiration from his family.
“My grandfather was in the Navy, and I have a lot of respect for him and all the things he’s been through. Whenever he’d tell me about his experiences, there was a part of me that aspired to be just like him. During those times when I was challenged or felt like quitting, I’d think of him and remind myself that he went through these same things. It really helped me to know that he was able to succeed and that I could do the same as well.”
Stevens said the biggest challenge he faced in boot camp was building the necessary leadership traits needed to be successful.
“Back home, I was a follower and not a leader,” said Stevens. “Whatever my friends were doing I would do too without even really thinking about it. Of course, this also led me to getting in trouble. While I was here, there were times when someone had to step up and be the example. I wasn’t comfortable with it at first, but the more that I put myself in that position the more I realized that I could be that person. I was eventually put into leadership in my division and had to set an example for others. Though I still felt like I was out of my comfort zone at times being accountable for 100-plus recruits, the experience helped me learn a lot about myself. I’ve developed a lot of really good skills that will serve me well throughout my Navy career.”
After graduation, Stevens will attend Aviation Electronics Technician “A” School in Pensacola, Florida, for training in basic aviation theory and technical knowledge, aviation electrical systems, and electrical and electronics theory and skills.
Training at RTC is approximately 10 weeks, and all enlistees in the U.S. Navy begin their careers at the command. More than 40,000 Recruits train annually at the Navy’s only boot camp.
| Date Taken: | 01.10.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 01.10.2025 11:27 |
| Story ID: | 488898 |
| Location: | GREAT LAKES, ILLINOIS, US |
| Hometown: | MISSION VIEJO, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 231 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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