Austin Naval Officer Awarded with 2011 ‘Sailor of the Year’ Award in Washington, D.C.

July 26, 2011 

Lieutenant Commander Michael was presented with the 2011 Military Times ‘Sailor of the Year' award at their Service Member of the Year Ceremony in Washington, D.C.  Pictured here U.S. Congressman Lloyd Doggett and Military Times Editor-in-Chief Alex Neill, Files is the epitome of the U.S. Navy's motto, "Non Sibi Sed Patriae"—Not for Self, but Country.  As a naval officer, role model, and community advocate, LCDR Files challenges everyone around him to advance personally and professionally, serve their community and honor their family.  He has coordinated more than 45 community service projects totaling more than 4,000 services hours and saving communities 80,000.  Understanding the value of education, LCDR Files founded and chairs ‘A Brighter Future Foundation,' a non-profit international scholarship foundation.  As a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, he participates in several national projects and committees: Big Brothers and Big Sisters, College Life to Corporate Life, March of Dimes, and the National Military Affairs Committee.  In 2010, he was a Blacks in Government Meritorious Service Award recipient and received the "A World of Thanks" award.  An Eagle Scout himself, he also continues to spend countless hours working with the Boy Scouts of America. Files, a graduate of Bowie High School and the U.S. Naval Academy, is the son of David and Jane Files.  David, who is retired after working 25-years at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and Jane, who currently works for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, still reside in South Austin.  Files younger sister, Amy Pool received her computer engineering degree from Texas A&M and currently works as an independent website application developer while raising twin girls.