Senior Chief Petty Officer William R. Laver is the recipient of the 2009 USS STENNIS "Look Award" Award which is derived from a motto Senator John C. Stennis used to remind himself of the importance of focusing on the future. Senior Chief Laver graduated from Timpview High School in 1988 and joined the Navy in August of that year. After completing basic training and Quartermaster "A" school at Recruit Training Command Orlando FL., he reported to San Diego, CA for his first assignment aboard USS Lake Champlain (CG-57). In August 1992, as a Second Class Petty Officer, he decided to try his luck as a civilian. From August 1992 to December 1995 he held a variety of jobs in the private sector.

Late in Dec 1995, missing the camaraderie and life at sea, Senior Chief Laver decided to re-enlist in the Navy. Upon his return, he was transferred to TPU Treasure Island, CA and subsequently received orders to the USS Vincennes (CG 49) in San Diego, CA, participating in a home port shift to Yokosuka Japan. In 2000 he reported to USS Cleveland (LPD 7) also based in San Diego, CA and was promoted to Chief Petty Officer in 2001. He cross-decked to the USS Anchorage (LSD 36) in 2002.

In 2003 Senior Chief Laver reported to Training Support Center San Diego, CA where he served as the curriculum developer and course curriculum model manager for all Quartermaster instructional courses. In 2003, he was selected for Senior Chief Petty Officer and in November 2006, received orders to USS John C Stennis (CVN-74) subsequently earning his Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist (EAWS) designation.

Senior Chief Laver's personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (four awards), Volunteer Service Medal (for 10 years as a volunteer fire fighter) and the Good Conduct Medal.