Petty Officer 1st Class Christopher Anton, 29, is Commander-Naval Forces Europe's sailor of the year. (Sandra Jontz / S&S)
SIGONELLA, Sicily — Petty Officer 1st Class Christopher Anton, 29, was named Thursday as the Commander-Naval Forces Europe sailor of the year, an achievement that will have him competing against 25 other sailors in the next round of competition.
His said he believes his desire to “exceed what I’ve already achieved” earned him the distinction.
“It’s about consistency and commitment, both to myself and the Navy,” said the aviation systems warfare operator. “I come to work every day trying to do better than the day before.”
In nominating Anton for the post, Senior Chief Petty Officer Mark Flores said his leading petty officer “is hands down the top sailor.”
“I nominated him for his leadership abilities and his ability to work for his people,” Flores said. “It’s all about his people for him. He puts his folks first. Their problems are his. … If you’re going to strap a saddle on people and ride ’em, you better put them first. He does.”
Anton now will compete against 25 other sailors for the title of sailor of the year Commander-U.S. Fleet Forces Command.
