JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
The Sailors of Naval Air Facility Washington, D.C., Joint Base Andrews, were recognized for their various community projects and awarded the 2009 Personal Excellence Partnership Flagship Award for small shore command Jan. 22.
Each year the Chief of Navy Personnel recognizes outstanding community service projects Navy-wide and awards are presented in five flagship-sponsored categories: personal excellence partnership; health, safety, and fitness; project good neighbor; campaign drug free; and environmental stewardship.
The command, comprised of more than 100 full-time support Reservists and Active Duty Sailors, had volunteered an excess of 1,000 hours in the past year in a variety of programs, such as from the Partnership in Education Program and Drug Education for Youth. They also supported the District of Columbia and Maryland Special Olympics activities.
"This award is a testimony to the effort and dedication to the service our members provide to not only the country, but the community," said Capt. Timothy Fox, NAF commander. "They're out there getting the job done, representing Joint Base Andrews Naval Air Facility Washington through the Special Olympics, cleaning the Potomac River and programs like DEFY."
The DEFY camp, held annually, educates and encourages young people to make healthy lifestyle choices and avoid dangerous situations.
"I think it's great knowing the kids were learning from our training about drugs, alcohol and abuse," said Engineman First Class (SW) Woodrow McCary, the DEFY coordinator. "It was my most memorable moment volunteering."
"We get out there and do the job even though we work long hours," said SW McCary. "There are those who need our help and we at NAF Washington have the desire to help others as much as possible."
"I just want to take this moment to say 'thanks' to the men and women of NAF for making a difference in our community. It's humbling and I'm proud to be part of their teamwork," said Captain Fox. "These are just a small representation of the sacrificial service exemplified by our Sailors."