DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS
2000 NAVY PENTAGON
WASHINGTON, DC 20350-2000
OPNAVINST 1700.10P
N00D
16 Oct 2020
OPNAV INSTRUCTION 1700.10P
From: Chief of Naval Operations
Subj: SAILOR OF THE YEAR PROGRAM
Ref: (a) 5 CFR 16-2635.204
Encl: (1) Sample Nomination Format
(2) Command Cover Sheet
1. Purpose. To provide guidelines and procedures for the Sailor of the Year (SOY) Program.
This instruction has been completely revised and provides overarching guidance for all
subordinate SOY instructions. This revision expands the number of SOYs meritoriously
promoted to chief petty officer (CPO), modifies the SOY competitive cycle dates, provides
specifics for SOY competition timelines, and revises the nomination format to align with the
CPO selection board precept and convening order; it should be reviewed in its entirety.
2. Cancellation. OPNAVINST 1700.10N.
3. Applicability. This instruction applies to all commands with Active Component, Reserve
Component serving as full-time support, Reserve Component serving as Selective Reserve, and
all Sailors working outside of the traditional Navy chain of command (e.g., joint commands,
Federal agencies).
4. Background. The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) established the SOY Program to
recognize one Sailor who represents the best of the Navy by demonstrating both professional and
personal dedication. In 1972, the SOY Program only recognized Atlantic and Pacific Fleet
Sailors. The program was expanded in 1973 to recognize one outstanding Sailor representing
those serving in shore establishments Navy-wide. In 1982, the program began to include the
Navy Enlisted Reservist of the Year.
5. Discussion. The SOY Program recognizes Sailors who best represent the large number of
dedicated professionals serving in a particular type of duty as assigned. The SOY candidate is
typified by a history of sustained superior performance, command impact, mission contribution,
proven leadership, dedication to self-improvement, outstanding professionalism, and superior
personal appearance. They epitomize the characteristics of a first class petty officer and the
Navy core values, and show the ability to lead as a CPO, following the CPO mission, vision, and
guiding principles. When reviewing candidates for selection as SOY, additional consideration
should be given to those individuals who have excelled in increasingly demanding, challenging,
and unique assignments which embody naval service.
