Marine Corps Capt. David J. Cote of Bangor has been named Military Times 2011 Marine of the Year.

Cote was selected for this distinction in recognition of his high level of professionalism and dedication to advancing and caring for his fellow service members and his country, as well as his steadfast commitment to serving his community.

Sen. Olympia Snowe met with Cote today at her Washington D.C. office to commend his outstanding leadership and dedication.

“Capt. Cote’s dedication to our national defense, his family and his community exemplify the very best of our nation and inspire us all to give back however we can,” Snowe said. “His is a story of true inspiration, having worked to improve assistance for veterans and help his fellow Marines access higher education while simultaneously volunteering with the National Kidney Foundation and donating one of his own kidneys to save his father’s life.  And somehow, in what little spare time he has, Capt. Cote has acted as a guide for visually impaired athletes running road races and triathlons across central California.”

The Military Times annually recognizes one member from each branch of the military and accepts nominations for these awards from its magazine and web site readers, which include parents, fellow service members, supervisors and commanding officers.