Fiscal Year 2026 Active Reserve Career Counselor of the Year Award Board Results

1. Purpose.  To announce the results of the Fiscal
Year 2026 (FY26) Active Reserve (AR) Career Counselor of the Year
board.
2.  Background. Per reference (a), the FY26 Career Counselor of the
Year selection board convened on 22 October 2026 to evaluate nominees
for AR Career Counselor of the Year recognition.  The board selected
nominees based on demonstrated excellence in performance, leadership,
professionalism, and sustained contributions to enlisted retention
and career development.  Each nominee's record reflected a high
degree of dedication to Marines' professional development and the
Marine Corps' readiness.
3.  The results of the board are as follows:
3.a.  FY26 AR Career Counselor of the Year:
Staff Sergeant Steven R. Rhyne
6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine Logistics Group
3.b.  FY26 AR Career Counselor of the Year Runner-up:
Staff Sergeant Zonia A. Kotaro
Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing
4.  Congratulations to those selected and all who were nominated.
Your efforts are essential to the success of the AR enlisted
retention mission.  The Marine Corps relies on your leadership,
professionalism, and dedication to retain the talented and capable
Marines essential to maintaining our operational readiness.  Your
exceptional performance in this critical billet has made a meaningful
and lasting contribution to the Marine Corps.  Your commitment to
caring for Marines and supporting the retention mission is
commendable.  Keep charging.
5.  The FY26 Career Counselor of the Year will be formerly recognized
at the FY26 DC M&RA Professional Awards Dinner at The Clubs at
Quantico, Quantico, VA.  Details will be published via separate
correspondence.  Travel expenses for the awardee will be funded in
accordance with reference (b); detailed travel and attendance
instructions will be provided separately.
6.  Release authorized by BGen Guillermo Rosales Jr., Director,
Reserve Affairs Division.