Chief of Naval Personnel and Sailors Recognized for Volunteer Work

From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Personnel was honored for his command's volunteer efforts during a Naval District Washington Regional Community Service Program awards presentation March 27 at Naval Support Facility Arlington, Va.

During the ceremony Vice Adm. Scott Van Buskirk accepted the World of Thanks Award, which recognizes commands and organizations that made a significant contribution in the coordination of a Naval District Washington Community Service projects.

"I'm constantly impressed - in fact, awed - by the service and dedication of the Sailors I have the privilege to lead," Van Buskirk said.

In a one year period, from July 2010 to June 2011, Van Buskirk said nearly 240 volunteers in his command completed more than 2,270 hours of community service, supporting a number of diverse projects and touching the lives of almost 20,000 people.

Some of those projects included leading a holiday donation drive and summer backpack drive that raised more than 400 pounds of food for the Arlington Food Assistance Center. Volunteers also participated in Operation USO Care Package on Fort Belvior, which put together more than 8,500 care packages for service members overseas, and volunteered more than 500 hours in the Washington, D.C. scouting program. Chief of Naval Personnel Sailors also gave their time to help with last summer's D.C. Special Olympics and conducted a blood drive at the Navy Annex.

In addition to the award for the entire command, five individual Sailors were recognized for their individual contributions with the Inspire by Example Award. The award recognizes those Sailors who display a selflessness and strong commitment to helping the military family, encouraging team work and inspiring others to volunteer.

Personnel Specialist 1st Class Andrew Lucio, Yeoman 2nd Class Tamoris Gordon, Yeoman 1st Class Dewayne Toon, Chief Machinist's Mate Douglas Baker, and Chief Operations Specialist Jessica Myers each received the award.

According to Myers, who serves as command volunteer coordinator, most of the command's volunteer efforts aimed to help youth under the age of 18.

"The project that has been the most rewarding thus far has been our Future Leaders Club at the Arlington Career Center (ACC)," said Myers. "It's important to give back and impact today's youth, our future, and serving as positive role models they can emulate."

The Chief of Naval Personnel signed a formal partnership with the ACC in April 2010. Through the partnership, Navy volunteers hold individual and group mentoring sessions with students, provide lectures, lead practical exercises, and act as guest speakers with the goal of equipping students them with the skills to be college-bound. The ACC serves nearly 1,100 students each day.

"You truly serve as an example to us all of what can be accomplished when you dedicate your time, creativity and energy in serving others," Van Buskirk said.