Courtesy Photo | Seaman Valerie Petrova graduated as the top Sailor from Recruit Training Command,...... read more read more
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GREAT LAKES (NNS) – Seaman Valerie Petrova graduated as the top Sailor from Recruit Training Command, earning the Military Excellence Award (MEA) July 3, 2025.
Petrova, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, said she joined the Navy in search of stability, purpose, and the opportunity to be part of something greater than herself.
“I joined the Navy for a multitude of reasons,” Petrova said. “I wanted a stable career where I could help people and provide for my family. My spouse is in the military, too, and hearing about those experiences really inspired me. Watching her begin her own Navy journey gave me the motivation I needed to take this step.”
Petrova, 25, is a graduate of Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School, where she was involved in numerous extracurricular activities, including cheerleading, soccer, and cross-country. She also played both cello and violin in the school’s orchestra. Prior to enlisting in the Navy, she attended Southern New Hampshire University, where she was pursuing a bachelor’s degree in finance.
The Navy Club of the United States Military Excellence Award is the top award presented to the recruit who best exemplifies the qualities of enthusiasm, devotion to duty, military bearing, and teamwork. The award places Petrova at the pinnacle of today’s newest Sailors. As part of her recognition, she is awarded a flag letter of commendation.
“Winning the MEA is an incredible honor,” said Petrova. “When I first heard, I was absolutely exhilarated. It validated all the hard work I’ve put in and showed me that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. This recognition motivates me to continue pushing myself and to lead by example in the fleet.”
Petrova’s RDCs (Recruit Division Commanders) are Chief Machinist’s Mate (MMC) Lyzalee Rosado, Quartermaster 1st Class (QM1) Philip Simonsen, and Mineman 1st Class (MN1) Jesus Cortesmieles, and they guided her through the nine-week process.
“My RDCs saw something in me that I didn’t even know was there,” she said. “They pushed me to work harder, taught me the value of honor, courage, and commitment, and took time to help me understand anything I was struggling with. Their support shaped me into the Sailor I am today.”
In addition to her RDCs, Petrova credited her spouse for being her biggest source of motivation throughout the nine-week training process.
“She has always been my biggest supporter,” said Petrova. “Every letter, every phone call, she reminded me how proud she was of me and kept me going through the tough moments. I wouldn’t have made it without her.”
Petrova also found strength in the bonds she created with her fellow recruits.
“The people I met here truly became like family,” she said. “We supported each other every step of the way. I’m really grateful to have learned and grown with all the amazing people that were in my division.”
The most challenging part of boot camp, according to Petrova, was being separated from her family.
“Being away from my spouse and loved ones was harder than I expected,” she said. “But I reminded myself that every challenge was building our future. My shipmates became my family here, and those bonds helped me get through it.”
After graduation, Petrova will attend Mass Communication Specialist “A” School to begin her Navy career in public affairs and media production.
Training at RTC is approximately nine weeks long, and all enlistees in the U.S. Navy begin their careers at the command. More than 40,000 recruits train annually at the Navy’s only boot camp.
| Date Taken: | 07.03.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 07.03.2025 11:08 |
| Story ID: | 506153 |
| Location: | GREAT LAKES, ILLINOIS, US |
| Hometown: | FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA, US |
| Web Views: | 147 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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