Rockford Native Named Military Times 2014 Sailor of the Year

Anyone who’s listened to “Riley & Scot” knows the respect we have for our veterans and for our current service members. We try never to miss an opportunity to pay them the honor they deserve.

Today we shine a spotlight on Rockford native Chief Jeremy Crandall, who’s serving serving aboard USS Abraham Lincoln. Crandall just has been named the 2014 Navy Times Sailor of the Year:

Thanks to the Navy Office of Community Outreach for providing the pictures. Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonteil Johnson wrote a little about one of the key experiences in Crandall's career:

In April of 2001, Crandall was one of 24 crew members detained by China after a collision between their EP-3E signals intelligence aircraft and a Chinese J-811 interceptor fighter. Crandall said it was the leadership of Master Chief Nick Mellos that helped the crew get through the 12 days of detention that followed.

After his first enlistment, Crandall had the opportunity to pursue a great career outside the Navy, but at the last minute, chose to stay in the Navy.

"It just didn't feel right to leave," Crandall said. "I turned the job down and reenlisted. At that point I knew this would be a career."

Each year, Military Times honors one service member from every branch who demonstrates dedication, courage and pride beyond what is expected. Winners are recognized online and in Washington D.C. for their concern for their fellow service members and the community they continue to selflessly serve.

Thanks to Chief Jeremy Crandall and all of our Stateline area troops for their service.