Mayport Sailor Selected As NPASE East Shore SOY

Stiles had been serving in the Navy for eight years, most of that time as a Photographer's Mate (PH), when her former rate was disestablished and merged with three other former Navy rates. She has been a first class petty officer for just under one year and took the news of being awarded the honor of NPASE Shore Sailor of the Year with great pride and enthusiasm.

"When I heard the news, I was overwhelmed and honored to be chosen from the collection of amazing Sailors whom I serve with," said Stiles. "Nothing is more humbling than that."

"We are all very proud of the job Petty Officer Stiles has done there at NPASE Southeast," said Lt. Anthony Falvo, Officer-in-Charge Navy Public Affairs Support Element-East. "Her dedication, determination and leadership over the past year are truly indicative of what it takes to be successful. She is one of the best and brightest the enlisted Public Affairs community has to offer and I am truly honored to call her my "Shipmate."

Stiles' husband, Yoeman 2nd Class (AW) Marlando Stiles is also in the Navy and is stationed at Naval Air Station Jacksonville. Together, they have four children and two military careers to balance in their household.

"I dedicate myself and give my all to everything I doI just try to stay in the lines," said Stiles. "Many times, those lines are blurred, but I believe if I continue to work hard as a Sailor, I am teaching my children the importance of perseverance, commitment, and sacrifice at the same time."

Her success was not something that she just expected to happen. She claims she owes everything that she has achieved to her past and present leaders.

"I have had so many great leaders in my career to learn from and I took some outstanding qualities from each one," noted Stiles. "I am very thankful for the time that they have put into teaching me how to grow."

Her leadership is just as delighted for her personal successes and praised her for a job well done.

"I couldn't ask for a better leading petty officer. She's an outstanding Sailor, leader, and role model who is extremely deserving of her selection as SOY. Petty Officer Stiles' extreme dedication to her job, our Sailors, and the mission makes her an invaluable asset to both our command and the Navy," said MCC (AW/SW) Anthony Casullo, Leading Chief Petty Officer, NPASE-E DET SE.

Stiles will now have her package forwarded to Department of Navy Chief of Information (CHINFO) for consideration in the CHINFO Sailor of the Year competition for 2008. "Whether you are selected as SOY or not, it is important that you know your hard work is being recognized and appreciated," added Stiles. "Always give everything you do, 100 percent of your effort."