SAN DIEGO – Marine Sgt. Julie Swett, an aviation ground support equipment/mobile facilities technician instructor at the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU) North Island, took time to reflect on her 2021 CNATT Marine of the Year achievement recently announced by CNATT leadership.
 
Swett, a Saco, Maine, native, was caught off guard with the announcement.
 
“When my commanding officer first delivered the news, I was genuinely surprised,” Swett said.  “After taking a minute to process, I was both honored and excited to represent CNATT.”
 
Swett was selected from a small group of finalists that included Staff Sgt. Shayne Lachick, CNATT Detachment Eglin, Florida, and Sgt. Ricardo Cuevas, CNATT Detachment Camp Pendleton, California.
 
For CNATTU North Island Commanding Officer Cmdr. Kent Davis, endorsing Swett as his candidate for the award was a direct reflection of her impact in the command.
 
“I endorsed Sgt. Swett because of her commitment to the organization and work ethic,” Davis said.  “She makes this command better every day.  She has passion for the job and the Marine Corps and it’s contagious in her work center.”
 
Swett put emphasis on the passion Davis spoke of.
 
“I approach every day with passion, coupled with the mentality that I will make a difference,” Swett said.  “Whether it be educating my students in the classroom, or helping young Marines and Sailors navigate their way through the inevitable challenges that life throws at them...I hold the conviction that no matter how major or minor, I will make an impact on the lives of those around me.”
 
She has channeled that passion and motivation into reaching her career goal of becoming an officer, as she awaits orders for her recent Officer Candidate School selection.
 
“I believe that I have more to offer the organization,” Swett said.
 
Davis agrees; “Hands down the Marines got this selection right.  She is going to be an awesome officer!”    
 
CNATT leadership appreciates all commands who submitted candidates for the award.  The strong competition between these outstanding professionals demonstrates the strength of our aviation training community and the quality of our assigned Marines. Their individual nominations speak highly of their hard work, professionalism, and dedication, as well as setting a superb example for the next generation of aviation maintainers.