10/22/2026
🏆 🇺🇸
YM/SSgt Bonnie Rickman
2026 Fox Valley Young Marine of the Year
Rickman’s dedication, leadership, and commitment to the Young Marines truly set her apart.
She wrote and presented an essay about what being a Young Marine means to her. Her powerful presentation helped earn her the title of Fox Valley Young Marine of the Year and also contributed to her receiving the Young Marines Alumni Association Scholarship to the National Leadership Academy.
And she didn’t stop there! While attending the National Leadership Academy, Bonnie earned the Molly Marine Award for the second time at a leadership school and finished 2nd overall in performance.
Back home, Rickman has stepped into the role of Color Sergeant, organized and executed four major veteran events, and taken on responsibility for the unit’s app schedule for drills and events.
Her accomplishments extend well beyond Fox Valley, too. She has excelled as a lead solo violinist with The Chicago Consort, performing internationally in Montenegro, Slovenia, and Croatia. She also earned her third perfect PFT over the summer!
We are incredibly proud of you, YM/SSgt Bonnie Rickman! Congratulations! ⭐
❤️Keep leading.
🤍Keep serving.
💙Keep inspiring.
