United States Marine Corps

Press Release
Division of Public Affairs
Headquarters, U. S. Marine Corps
Washington, D. C. 20380-1775
Telephone: 703-614-4309 DSN 224-4309 Fax 703-695-7460
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Release # 0712-04-1200
July 8, 2004

Senators Daniel K. Inouye and John McCain Present The Fourth Annual Military Times Awards

WASHINGTON--Military Times Media Group, with the support of Raytheon, GNC and Uniformed Services Benefits Association (USBA), is honoring five members of the U.S. armed services for their continued work in improving their communities and inspiring their fellow servicemen and women. These are the “everyday heroes” of the military services, whose efforts unselfishly and consistently go above and beyond the call of duty. Winners assisted during a crisis and/or continuously aided important causes. This year’s five honorees exemplify the finest qualities of the men and women who serve in the Armed Forces.

Senator Daniel K. Inouye (D-HI), and Senator John McCain (R-AZ), Congressman Ed Schrock, Congressman Rob Bishop and Congressman Ed Case presented the fourth annual Army Times Soldier of the Year, Navy Times Sailor of the Year, Air Force Times Airman of the Year, Marine Corps Times Marine of the Year & Navy Times Coast Guardsman of the Year at the Reserve Officers Association in Washington July 8.

Army Times Soldier of the Year: Staff Sergeant Clay Usie is top-notch in his field. Whether he’s in Afghanistan serving as a Special Ops Communications Specialist or at home recruiting in New Orleans, his dedication to the Army is displayed each day. Whether he’s collecting winter coats, arranging military honors for vets or assisting in local schools, SSG Usie receives a HOOAH from Army Times.
Hometown: Houma, LA; Post: New Orleans Recruiting Battalion, New Orleans, LA

Navy Times Sailor of the Year: AE1 Matthew Cooper was selected for his performance in overhauling avionics equipment for assigned aircraft during a nine-month deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His refurbishment of the ship’s learning and media center saved dollars and boosted morale. Hometown: Toledo, OH; Base: Norfolk, VA – USS Nassau

Air Force Times Airman of the Year: Tech Sergeant Demetruis McMillon is being honored for his efforts on a mission to rescue three critically ill passengers from the cruise ship, Statendam. In the community, TSgt. McMillion is a Big Brother and also serves the needs of the homeless in his area. Hometown: Jacksonville, FL; Base: Kirtland, NM

Marine Corps Times Marine of the Year: Staff Sergeant Wade Davis was personally chosen after his deployment to Operation Iraqi Freedom where he flew over 100 combat sorties including participation in the rescue of POW Jessica Lynch. He personally arranged additional combat lifesaver training for the squadron's aircrews, ensuring a higher level of first aid/medical care for the 122 wounded-in-actions that the squadron evacuated. Hometown: Ogden, UT; Base: MCAS Miramar, San Diego, CA

Navy Times Coast Guardsman of the Year: AST3 Drew Dazzo is being honored for supporting both his unit and community. Just completing a six-month deployment to Operation Iraqi Freedom, fulfilling over 50 flying missions and participating in four medic evacuations. In the community, he has administered many life-saving rescues. Hometown: Ridge, NY; Base: Air Station Barbers Point, HI


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