By O’Dell Isaac

A Colorado native was recently honored as the top graduate of her class at Navy basic training, according to a news release.

Airman Apprentice Bailey Burke, a 2025 graduate of Columbine High School, earned the Military Excellence Award, presented by the Navy Club of the United States to the recruit who exemplifies “enthusiasm, devotion to duty, military bearing, and teamwork,” the release stated.

For Burke, the award served as confirmation of her belief that hard work pays off.

“When I found out I had earned the award, it reminded me that hard work is always worth it,” she said. “Even on the toughest days, when it felt like too much, I pushed through, and it paid off. I’ve always believed in my leadership skills, but winning the MEA confirmed that I should be proud of the person I’m becoming.”

In addition to the award, Burke received a flag letter of commendation, an acknowledgment of exemplary achievement from a high-ranking naval officer.

Burke comes from a family that values military service, Navy officials said. Her grandfather served in the Navy, her father served in the Air Force, and her uncle served with the Marine Corps.

“I grew up hearing their stories — the good and the hard times — and they were the ones who opened my mind to this path,” she said.

Burke’s leadership skills were evident before she shipped off for boot camp, according to the release. As a varsity poms dancer at Columbine High School, she served as one of three team captains who led the squad to a First Place victory at this year’s league championships.

“Being part of that team instilled values I carried into boot camp — discipline, teamwork, and perseverance,” she said. “Those experiences shaped me into the kind of leader I strive to be.”

Like many new service members, Burke’s biggest challenge was being away from her family and friends for the first time.

“I’ve always been surrounded by family and friends, so going weeks without seeing them was difficult,” she said. “But learning how to handle that separation showed me I’ll be able to do it in the fleet. It made me stronger.”

During the hardest moments, when she felt nearly overwhelmed in an unfamiliar environment nearly 1,000 miles from home, Burke drew strength from her parents, she said.

“Even though I couldn’t talk to them much, I knew they were cheering me on from home,” she said. “I’m so grateful for how they raised me and for the example they set. I just want to keep honoring them and making them proud.”

Navy basic training is approximately nine weeks and takes place at the Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill., about 35 miles north of downtown Chicago. All Navy enlistees begin their careers at the Great Lakes command.

Burke will now head to Pensacola, Fla., for specialized training as a flight crew member.