CNO Recognizes Environmental Award Recipients

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Kyle P. Malloy, Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs

June 1, 2010 - WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead recognized 25 Navy individuals, ships, and installations for their exceptional environmental stewardship during his Environmental Awards ceremony June 1.

The awardees were recognized for reducing or eliminating hazardous materials, working with governmental and nongovernmental organizations to conserve natural resources, preserving land and restoring plant and animal species.

"I have been most impressed this year with the degree to which the commands and individuals partnered with civic leaders, students and volunteers from local communities," said Roughead. "Because they're not only preserving the environment, they're leading the Navy, indeed, to be a more responsible neighbor and community builder."

Roughead discussed the relationship between the creative and innovative 'green' tactics used by the award winners and how they can help achieve the Navy's overall energy conservation goals set by Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus.

"It is through your example, through your skill, through ingenuity, through your dedication, through your involvement with those who can introduce us to new and better ways of doing things, that we can meet those goals," said Roughead to the awardees.

Roughead identified the importance of staying technologically progressive in the 'green' industry and continuing to build on the award winning environmentally friendly initiatives.

"I applaud all of the Sailors [and Navy civilians] that are here today, who are the leaders in environmental conservation in their own right," said Roughead.