By Ethan Carter, Navy Office of Community Outreach
NAPLES, Italy - Seaman Jessica Boyce, a native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, was named Blue Jacket of the Year serving with Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station (NCTS) Naples, Italy.
The Blue Jacket of the Year award is one of several yearly categories used to recognize high-performing sailors who stand out from others in similar pay grades.
Boyce is a logistics specialist responsible for providing exceptional customer service, operating financial accounting systems, managing inventories of repair parts and general supplies that support ships, squadrons and shore-based activities.
“As a logistics specialist, my job is to get the right material to the right place at the right time,” said Boyce.
Boyce, a 2015 Jack Britt High School graduate, joined the Navy two years ago because she felt like it was the right choice for her.
“College wasn't something I wanted to do, the Navy had the best recruiters and I liked the uniforms the best,” Boyce said.
NCTS Naples provides secure, reliable and timely voice, video and data services to several U.S. Navy commands including U.S. Sixth Fleet, U.S. Naval Forces Europe, joint, allied and coalition customers. It's comprised of approximately 20 officers, 325 enlisted personnel and 40 civilians.
“I have the privilege of being part of an amazing team filled with people who push one another to do better, as well as getting great travel and liberty,” said Boyce.
According to Boyce, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Fayetteville.
“Growing up in Fayetteville I was taught you should always do your best and follow through until the goal is met and if you do it right the first time you won't have to do it again,” said Boyce.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Boyce, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“Serving in the Navy has taught me how to face my fears one ‘hooyah’ at a time,” Boyce said.
U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. Sixth Fleet continue their missions of conducting maritime operations in Europe and Africa. Forces stand ready throughout the two theaters, and command leadership remains committed to taking every measure possible to protect the health of forces, as well as local residents. Warships, submarines, and aircraft continue their patrols to deter and defend against threats to U.S., NATO, and partner nations.