Great Lakes, IL—Seaman Recruit Grant Novinger, a 2018 home-schooled graduate and native of Milan, Indiana, graduated as top Sailor from Recruit Training Command, Division 934, earning the Military Excellence Award on June 28.
“This award means that I put my best foot forward when it comes to performing in boot camp,” Novinger said. “It means that I have exemplified, to the best of my ability, the core values of honor, course, and commitment.”
The Navy Club of the United States Military Excellence Award is the top award presented to the No. 1 recruit of their graduating training group. The MEA is awarded to the recruit that best exemplifies the qualities of enthusiasm, devotion to duty, military bearing and teamwork. The award placed Novinger at the pinnacle of today’s newest sailors; he was was awarded a flag letter of commendation for his achievements.
Novinger was a member of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps for seven years, holding the rank of midshipmen with the Flying Tigers Squadron, based in Milan, Indiana. He served in a number of roles, including color guard commander, cadet division commander, and chief petty officer.
Novinger said he joined the Navy to continue his family’s tradition of service. “My grandfather, Fred Novinger, and my father, Scott Novinger, served in the Navy,” Novinger said. “My brother, Koen Novinger, currently serves, and now I am. It just seemed like it’d be the right fit and that I would enjoy my experiences.”
Novinger said his parents, Scott and Michelle Novinger, who instilled a strong foundation and prepared him for his future, inspired him. “My father and mother always pushed me to be the best that I can be in all circumstances,” Novinger said. “They have shown me that whatever I put into what I do is what I’ll get out of it. They were strict but very reasonable parents and for that, I am grateful.”
