Navy Hawaii Recognized For Stewardship

November 25, 2009
By (SW) Mark Logico
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(SW) Mark Logico
Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class
Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) - Two Navy commands in Hawaii received honorable mention awards during the 2009 Navy Environmental Stewardship Flagship awards competition Nov. 5.

Afloat Training Group Middle Pacific (ATG MIDPAC) and Naval Station Pearl Harbor were both recognized by the Navy Community Service Program (NCSP) for 2009.

“I’m very happy that the hard work of our volunteers at ATG MIDPAC was recognized at this level,” said Senior Chief Fire Controlman (SW) Craig A. Hohnstein of ATG MIDPAC. “Our people are active and visible members of the community. They’re always willing to help out where they can.”

The NCSP began in 1992 by then-Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Frank B. Kelso. The purpose of the program is to foster and nurture community ties with the Navy and promote volunteerism while developing better naval leaders through the experience.

“ATG MIDPAC volunteered 291 hours last year helping to clean up our island home,” said Hohnstein. “As a command we organized projects targeted to improve the environment and to teach young people to take pride in their home.”

NCSP distinguished shore, sea and overseas commands for outstanding community service, including service that promotes good steward-ship of environmental resources.

“We participated in a cleanup at Richardson Marina to help preserve our beautiful waterfront,” said Hohnstein. “We helped the children of Iroquois Point Elementary School to plant 400 bushes on their campus. We planted 35 trees and bushes at Aiea Elementary School and created four plots for the school’s gardening club. We feel that passing on the sense of environmental stewardship to the children in our community is as important, or more so, as doing the actual work.”

“Bravo Zulu to the winners and honorable mention commands, and thanks to all commands and individuals who participated,” said Vice Adm. Michael K. Loose, deputy chief of naval operations for fleet readiness and logistics. “Your caring and dedication in protecting our environment reflect yet another way in which our Navy is a global force for good.”