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thedrifter
04-09-09, 06:37 AM
MARFORPAC recognizes Sailor of the Year

4/8/2009 By Lance Cpl. Shannon E. McMillan , Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — Success in the military is not only the reflection of the individual and the command, but it is also the support provided from the sidelines.

Both competitors of the 2009 Marine Corps Forces Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year believe they would not be where they are if it was not for the support of their loved ones.

“My wife, Megan, always pushes me to be better and not to be a slacker,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Patrick K. McCormick, religious program specialist, 1st Marine Logistic Group. He has won the 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Force Pacific Sea Sailor of the Year.

“He’s much deserving of the recognition he has received,” said Chief Petty Officer Dennis N. Abeling, leading chief petty officer, 1st Marine Logistic Group.

McCormick is the type of person who will finish a job when it is handed to him, he does not make excuses, he just finds a way to get it done, Abeling said.

Petty Officer 1st Class Patricia Hernandez’s family not only understands and supports her in her work, but they also volunteer alongside her, said Hernandez, religious program specialist, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

She volunteers her time supporting an orphanage in Mexico, the Rancho Community Church in Temecula and the Boys and Girls Club.

“She’s top notch, my right hand man,” said Chief Petty Office Warren Dobson, senior enlisted leader of Navy personnel, Marine Corps Installations West and Marine Cops Base Camp Pendleton.

“It will be sad to see her leave this upcoming August. The person taking her place will have big shoes to fill,” he said.

The MARFORSHORE is not the only award Hernandez has won; previously she won the MCI-W Sailor of the Year.

Hernandez said it was an honor to be selected for the boards, but the greatest reward was helping those who need assistance.

“Community service is not a part of my job, it is something I look forward to,” she said.

Service members who are selected for boards usually spend their liberty time helping the surrounding communities, providing guidance for junior enlisted and conducting themselves in the highest traditions of the military.

McCormick and Hernandez will be going on to the next level and competing for the United States Pacific Fleet Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year.

“I know this will be tough because I will be up against the best of the best,” said McCormick.

Ellie