MILLINGTON, Tenn. - Legalman 1st Class Veronica Lockett, a native of Columbus, Mississippi, serving with Region Legal Service Office Southeast, was recently named the 2025 Naval Legal Service Command Sailor of the Year.
Lockett graduated from New Hope High School in 2004, earned a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies from Roger Williams University in 2011 and a master’s degree in health care administration from Trident University International in 2019. For the last 20 years, she has served as a legalman supporting legal operations and assisting Sailors across a range of administrative and legal matters.
The lessons learned from her family growing up in Columbus have served Lockett well in the Navy.
“Growing up, my grandparents taught me the value of hard work, perseverance and the importance of education,” Lockett said. “They always encouraged me to not give up, no matter the obstacles.”
Lockett said the decision to join the Navy was driven by a desire to build a better future.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to become something great and make my parents and grandparents proud,” Lockett said. “I also wanted to be in a position to care for them as they got older. I knew I was destined for better, and the Navy has given me that and so much more.”
This year, the Navy is commemorating its contribution to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years, the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity. More information is available here: https://www.navy.mil/navy-250/.
With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber-optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
One of Lockett’s proudest accomplishments was being selected as Sailor of the Year.
“There have been many proud moments during my time in the Navy, but being selected as Sailor of the Year and becoming a finalist for Naval Legal Service Command Sailor of the Year is one of my greatest accomplishments,” Lockett said. “It has been on my vision board for years. It was delayed but not denied.”
Serving in the Navy continues to provide purpose and opportunity.
“The Navy means so much to me,” Lockett said. “It has given me the opportunity to help people and meet individuals from many different walks of life. I’m proud to be a part of a mission that helps my loved ones and keeps our country safe.”
Lockett also expressed gratitude to those who supported the journey.
“I would like to give a special shout out to my mother, Jacqueline Malone, my entire family and close friends back home,” Lockett said. “Thank you for being a part of my journey and for understanding that though I may not always be present, my love for you has never wavered.”