By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Charles White, Navy Region Southeast Reserve Component Command Public Affairs

HOUSTON (NNS) -- Former President George H.W. Bush congratulated a Sailor from Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) Houston, for his selection as Navy Region Southeast Reserve Component Command's Reserve Sailor of the Year (SOY).

Bush, a World War II veteran who was at one point the youngest naval aviator in the U.S. Navy, was on hand for the dedication of the Navy and Marine Corps wing of the Joint Forces Reserve Center at Ellington Field. The wing was named in honor of Bush. The former president also set aside time to personally recognize Legalman 1st Class Harrold Henck for the milestone achievement in his career.

"You're a true example of the citizen Sailor who gives freely of his time to serve our great nation," said Bush to Henck. "This award really shows your dedication. Keep up the good work."

"It was an honor to meet the president… but I felt like I should be thanking him… He's a real war hero," Henck said.

Henck, leading petty officer of Operational Support Unit 0823, was named NOSC SOY in a command of 1,100 selected Reservists before being selected as SOY in the U.S. Navy's largest Reserve region. The region encompasses seven states and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. He will now compete with four other regional SOYs for the title of Commander, Navy Reserve Force SOY.

For more news from Commander, Navy Reserve Force, visit www.navy.mil/local/nrf/.