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Celebrating Courage: SourceAmerica’s Partnership with Military Times

In an inspiring event held on September 3, 2025, in Washington, D.C., SourceAmerica®, a respected national nonprofit organization that administers the AbilityOne® Program, joined forces with Military Times to honor the outstanding achievements of military service members at the 2025 Service Members of the Year Awards. This annual ceremony acknowledges exemplary individuals from each branch of the Armed Forces and a civilian leader for their exceptional contributions and commitments to service.

Richard Belden, the President and CEO of SourceAmerica, expressed pride in continuing the organization's sponsorship of this revered tradition that celebrates extraordinary heroes. He emphasized the importance of honoring the dedication and sacrifice of military members: "For more than two decades, the Service Members of the Year Awards have honored the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of military members. It is our privilege to continue our sponsorship of this tradition, which honors these extraordinary heroes and reflects our mission to support military readiness through our work connecting individuals with disabilities to federal contract employment opportunities."

SourceAmerica's network comprises numerous AbilityOne federal contractors employing tens of thousands of individuals with disabilities, including a significant number of veterans. Among these participants, over 2,800 veterans with disabilities contribute crucially to military operations by providing essential services and products. Their work encompasses a variety of responsibilities from maintaining military vehicles and bases to supporting vital missions such as those associated with NASA.

Meet the 2025 Service Members of the Year

The 2025 awards showcased a range of remarkable achievements by service personnel:

• - Army Staff Sgt. David Quay was honored as the 2025 Soldier of the Year for his extraordinary bravery in rescuing an injured crew member from a helicopter crash, enduring freezing conditions for over 40 minutes until help could arrive.
• - Navy Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Ahmed El Haroun, the 2025 Sailor of the Year, displayed exceptional leadership during a piracy response operation, successfully rescuing 22 hostages and disarming five pirates without any casualties.
• - Air Force Capt. Carla Nava, named the 2025 Airman of the Year, displayed valor during a missile barrage while advocating for female aviators, significantly impacting national policy on pregnancy and gear access.
• - Marine Maj. Zachary Sessa, recognized as the 2025 Marine of the Year, pioneered the first-ever F-35C Lightning II combat missions, achieving outstanding operational success and mentoring future leaders in Marine aviation.
• - Space Force Sgt. Yuji Moore was honored as the 2025 Guardian of the Year for his groundbreaking work in joint-service integration.
• - The Coast Guard Station Washington Search and Rescue Team was recognized for executing a lifesaving response during a mid-air collision over the Potomac River, demonstrating extreme professionalism under distressing conditions.

A special award, the 2025 Chairman's Award, was given to Senator Elizabeth Dole for her decades of public service and impactful advocacy for military caregivers through the Elizabeth Dole Foundation.

Michael Reinstein, Chairman of the Military Times Foundation, remarked on the notable achievements of this year’s award winners, highlighting their embodiment of the ideals of courage and service: "This year's honorees represent the highest ideals of courage, innovation, and service. From battlefield heroism to groundbreaking advocacy, they remind us of the extraordinary individuals who serve—and support—our military every day. It is our privilege to recognize their impact."

For further information on SourceAmerica's programs for veterans, including job opportunities through the AbilityOne initiative, visit SourceAmerica. To learn more about the Military Times Foundation and the Service Members of the Year Awards, explore Military Times.

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SourceAmerica continues to bridge the gap between federal contractors and individuals with disabilities, providing support and resources necessary to navigate the abilityOne Program successfully. Through their commitment to military service members and veterans, SourceAmerica reinforces its mission to create meaningful employment opportunities. Learn more at SourceAmerica.