Military Times Reveals 2024 'Service Member Of The Year' Award Recipients

For over two decades, the annual "Service Members of the Year" awards have stood as a testament to the valor and dedication of U.S. military personnel. Administered by Military Times and its non-profit subsidiary, the Military Times Foundation, these awards spotlight individuals from each branch of the U.S. military who have demonstrated exceptional service beyond their call of duty. This year, the tradition continues with an illustrious gala set for April 24, 2024, at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C., where leaders from various sectors will gather to honor this year's awardees.

Since its inception in 2019, the Military Times Foundation has significantly impacted the military and veteran community, contributing over $20 million in cash and media value to support more than 150 service organizations. Among these beneficiaries are Fisher House, Children of Fallen Patriots, TAPS, and Objective Zero, highlighting the foundation's commitment to addressing the evolving needs of military personnel and veterans.

This year's distinguished recipients are a diverse group representing the best of their respective branches:

• Air Force Senior Airman Kostiantyn Khymchenko - Airman of the Year
• Coast Guard Boatswain’s Mate First Class Matthew Casper - Coastguardsman of the Year
• Space Force Captain Daniel Reynolds - Guardian of the Year
• Marine Corps Colonel and NASA astronaut Nicole Mann - Marine of the Year
• Navy Personnel Specialist 1st Class Alexander Boston - Sailor of the Year
• Army Sergeant First Class Elizabeth Marks - Soldier of the Year
• Retired Marine Captain Fred Smith - Veteran of the Year

Nominations for these awards come from peers and commanding officers, with selections made based on criteria that reflect not only exemplary service but also adaptability and community involvement. These criteria underscore the changing dynamics and needs within military readiness and institutional agility.

Kelly Facer from Military Times Foundation remarked on the significance of these awards: "As we honor the ‘Service Members of the Year,’ we salute all our award recipients. Their actions, both in duty and community service, reflect the essence of military excellence." This sentiment echoes throughout the military community, highlighting how these individuals inspire through their selflessness and adaptability.

The event is supported by notable sponsors including Fisher House Foundation, Veteran Benefits Guide, Leonardo DRS, IHG Army Hotels, The Nationals, and Delta. These partnerships further emphasize the collective effort to recognize and support those who serve.

The "Service Members of the Year" awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also bring attention to the broader needs and challenges faced by those in service. For more details on this prestigious event, past winners, and selection criteria, interested parties are encouraged to visit servicemembersoftheyear.org.

Military Times serves as a pivotal resource for service members and their families. Offering independent news and information crucial to their professional and personal lives, it covers a wide array of topics including updates from various branches, financial services, healthcare, education, and transition resources. As part of Sightline Media Group, Military Times continues its commitment to providing valuable content to its audience.