, Fleet Readiness Centers (COMFRC) has tapped another Fleet Readiness Center Southwest (FRCSW) Sailor for top honors this year.
Aviation Support Equipment Technician 1st Class Christian Young was recently named the COMFRC 2019 Shore Sailor of the Year (SOY), joining fellow FRCSW Sailor PR1 Liberty Cagaanan, who is the COMFRC 2019 Sea SOY.
Young is the leading petty officer (LPO) in the 900 Support Equipment Division at FRCSW Site Pt. Mugu on Naval Base Ventura County. He oversees the work of 34 Sailors who maintain and refurbish an array of support equipment like tractors and tow bars.
Young attributes his selection for the award to the work of his teammates throughout the command.
"I wasn't expecting that I would be selected as COMFRC (Shore) SOY," he said. "But it's a result of the amount of success in our command with the help of our junior Sailors, my peers and all the guidance and mentorship of the command leadership, especially the Chiefs Mess."
The 35-year-old Sailor, a native of Camiling Tarlac, Philippines, joined the Navy in 2005 with the intent to travel. He enlisted in Queens, New York.
"My favorite location to work is in Japan. I love the place, the food and their culture," he said.
After graduation from Naval Training Center, he spent four years on the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and then transferred to Commander, Fleet Air Forward (CFAF) U.S. Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, from 2010 to 2014. Aircraft carrier assignments continued with the USS George Washington (CVN 73) for one year, and a return tour to Reagan from 2015 to July 2017 prior to reporting to FRCSW Pt. Mugu one month later.
"I've only been to CVN commands and two FRCs. I like working on FRCs because the command gives you more time to spend time with your family," he said.
Young said he plans to make the Navy his career, citing camaraderie as one of the factors he enjoys.
"The Navy is one big command, but like people say, `Its a small world.' Anywhere you end up stationed there is always a chance that you'll bump into someone you know."
Finding a mentor, Young said, was a top recommendation he had for junior Sailors who'd like to advance their careers.
"Take pride in what you do in the Navy. Find a mentor, someone you look up to, who's willing to guide you on both your professional and personal goals. Be humble and open for constructive criticism. Take each opportunity as if it's your last. Be fair and firm."
Young is currently awaiting orders, and spends his free time with his wife Gizelle and their six-month-old son.