It is my privilege to recognize outstanding judge advocates and legalmen for professional excellence and dedication to service. I am pleased to announce the following individuals have been selected as the Naval Legal Service Command (NLSC) Junior Officer of the Quarter and Sailor of the Quarter for the period October to December 2012:
Junior Officer of the Quarter: Congratulations to Lt. Jonathan B. Blazek, assigned to Region Legal Service Office, Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia, NLSC's Junior Officer of the Quarter for 1st Quarter FY13. As staff judge advocate for Naval Support Activity Naples, Blazek masterfully addressed myriad challenging legal issues in a dynamic overseas environment. Blazek provided expert advice regarding the Status of Forces Agreement, Italian Customs Circulars, and the Tri-Component Directive for Italy, preserving the privileges of U.S. and NATO members and enhancing quality of life for service members and their families. Blazek provided guidance on numerous high-profile criminal investigations, command investigations, non-judicial punishment proceedings, administrative separations, Freedom of Information Act requests, grievances, access issues, and commercial business requests. Blazek's outstanding accomplishments have earned him recognition as the NLSC Junior Officer of the Quarter.
Sailor of the Quarter: Congratulations to Legalman 1st Class (Surface Warfare/Aviation Warfare) Tiffany Garfield, assigned to Region Legal Service Office (RLSO) Southeast, Detachment Pensacola, NLSC's Sailor of the Quarter for 1st Quarter FY13. As the Detachment Leading Petty Officer, she supervised and mentored six legalmen, providing effective and efficient support to five trial counsel. Garfield and her team were critical in ensuring all trials were litigated as scheduled. As the Detachment's Victim and Witness Assistance Program Coordinator, she ensured each victim and witness received all necessary information and services. A proactive leader, Garfield ensured Pensacola was well prepared for the upcoming tax season by coordinating training and creating guidelines for all 2013 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance participants. Garfield's strong leadership and dedication to duty have earned her recognition as the NLSC Sailor of the Quarter.