Russell A. (Rusty) Pickett is an exemplary candidate for the Veteran of the Year® or Vetrepreneur® of the Year (VOY) Award due to his distinguished military service and extensive contributions to both the veteran and local communities. As a retired Naval officer, Rusty dedicated over 26 years as a Submariner, including commanding the nuclear attack submarine USS L. MENDEL RIVERS. His leadership experiences extended across various prestigious assignments, including roles at Headquarters staffs in Washington, D.C. and Norfolk, Virginia. Rusty's global exposure, having traveled to all seven continents and over 70 countries, enriches his perspective and expertise.
In addition to his military accomplishments, Rusty holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Behavior from Yale University and an MBA from Charleston Southern University. He has garnered accolades such as being designated a "Shellback," highlighting his dedication and commitment to naval traditions.
Rusty is actively involved in several organizations, serving in leadership roles with the Kiwanis Club of Charleston, Knights of Columbus, and the South Carolina Chapter of the Naval Submarine League. Through Shellback Cruises, he channels his passion for travel into creating memorable experiences for veterans, emphasizing the importance of travel in fostering reunions and connections among service members.
As one of the top Professional Travel Advisors in North America, Rusty exemplifies exceptional customer service without additional fees, prioritizing the needs of his clients and creating a family-like community of adventurers. His advocacy for veterans, combined with his impressive credentials and community involvement, make Rusty an ideal candidate for the VOY Award.
Shellback Cruises
Carolinas District Kiwanis International: Past Youth Services Chair and was the ‘07- ’09, ‘18-‘19 Lt. Governor of Division 21. He is a member of the Charleston Club of Kiwanis International, Past President of the South Carolina Chapter of the Naval Submarine League, Member of United States Submarine Veterans, Inc., Member of the Navy League of the United States, Worthy Grand Knight, Council 6250 of the Knights of Columbus, and Member of Lynch Assembly of Knights of Columbus, Past President of the Yale University Club of Charleston, SC.
Elite Cruise Counsellor: examined and certified by CLIA. Verified Travel Agent, American Society of Travel Advisors; CLIA Luxury Cruise Specialist; Member: Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Board Member: CLIA Travel Agent Advisory Board (2005 – 2009); Distinguished Travel Professional by Travel Professionals Network; Member Agency and Designated "Super Agent" by Travel Leaders Network. Princess Cruises Commodore Certification” by Princess Cruises; “Cunard Line Commodore Certification” by Cunard Line. "Freestyle 2.0 Certified" by NCL; Royal Caribbean “WOW Expert Plus” Graduate, Celebrity Cruises “Five Star” Graduate, Great Alaska Specialist by Holland America Tours; Azamara Platinum Globe Travel Professional, Silversea Ultra Luxury Specialist, Graduated from the "Disney College of Knowledge", and is a "Niche Cruise Specialist". He is “Vegas Certified” by the Las Vegas Visitors and Convention Authority, and Universal Studios Orlando Certified.
