BRENHAM GRADUATE RECOGNIZED AS TOP SAILOR
Fresh out of high school, a Brenham native is making waves in the United State Navy.
Brenham ISD announced that Seaman Yazmine Gaines, a 2025 BHS graduate, has been recognized as the top Sailor from U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command (RTC) after earning the prestigious Military Excellence Award (MEA) on November 20, 2025.
Gaines, 18, was selected for the honor based on her outstanding enthusiasm, devotion to duty, military bearing, and teamwork — qualities that distinguish her among the Navy’s newest Sailors.
As part of this achievement, she received a flag letter of commendation in recognition of her exceptional performance. Gaines participated in MJROTC all four years and was also a proud member of the Brenham High School Girls Basketball Team.
“I wanted to do everything at once—go to school, travel, grow as a person, and build a future where I can stand on my own,” Gaines said. “I’m the first of my mom’s kids to go straight out into the world and do something with my life, and that’s something I’m really proud of.”
Gaines said the moment she learned she had earned the MEA was one she will never forget. “I prayed about it and gave it to God,” she said. “When they told me I was the MEA, I felt proud, relieved, and grateful. It showed me that if I really put my mind to something, I can achieve it. This is just the beginning of a new chapter.”
Throughout boot camp, Gaines navigated the fast pace and mental demands of training with discipline and determination. “The mental side of boot camp is no joke,” she said. “I had to keep a clear mind, stay true to my goals, and surround myself with people who wanted to grow right alongside me. Writing and praying helped me stay steady, and once I found my rhythm, everything fell into place.”
Following her graduation from RTC, Gaines will continue her training at Operations Specialist “A” School in Great Lakes, Illinois.
Gaines is a product of Brenham High School’s JROTC program, led by Capt. Jeffrey Bayse. “Yazmine represents the very best of what we hope to instill in our cadets,” said Capt. Jeffrey Bayse. “She led with integrity, supported her peers, and pushed herself to grow. Her success in the Navy is a direct reflection of the drive and character she showed throughout high school.”
Under Capt. Bayse’s leadership, the program has fostered confidence, discipline, and leadership skills in countless students — attributes that clearly contributed to Gaines’ success as she transitioned into military service.
“Yazmine’s achievement reflects not only her personal strength and discipline but also the commitment of our educators and programs that prepare students for bright futures beyond high school,” Superintendent Clay Gillentine said. “We are incredibly proud of her and look forward to seeing all she accomplishes in her Navy career.”
This milestone underscores Brenham ISD’s commitment to supporting students in all post-graduation pathways — including higher education, the workforce, and military service.