Recruit Training Command Public Affairs
GREAT LAKES (NNS) — Seaman Recruit Andrew Lockhart, Division 207, graduated as the top Sailor from Recruit Training Command, earning the Military Excellence Award on May 11.
Lockhart, 23, said he joined the Navy to achieve a sense of accomplishment.
“I want to be able to say I know I did something with my life,” Lockhart said. “Many people struggle to answer when asked what they are most proud of in their life. I know that I will have no problem answering that question now.”
Lockhart, from Birmingham, Alabama, is a 2017 graduate of the University of Alabama, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.
He was assigned the rate of Electrician’s Mate.
The Navy Club of the United States Military Excellence Award is the top award presented to the No. 1 recruit of their graduating training group. The MEA is awarded to the recruit that best exemplifies the qualities of enthusiasm, devotion to duty, military bearing and teamwork.
The award placed him at the pinnacle of today’s newest Sailors. Lockhart is awarded a flag letter of commendation.
Lockhart said he is honored to win the MEA and eager to build upon the accomplishment.
“Prior to coming to RTC Great Lakes, boot camp seemed like something that would be a struggle to even complete,” he said. “But to get to the end and realize that not only did I make it (but) I was at the top, is a boost to my confidence and will help me go even further in the Navy and see what I can achieve.”