Stethem Earns Marjorie Sterrett Battleship Fund Award

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) was awarded the Marjorie Sterrett Battleship Fund Award as the Pacific Fleet representative, May 29.

The Marjorie Sterrett Battleship Fund Award is presented annually for overall readiness to two commands, one in the U.S. Atlantic Fleet (USS Laboon (DDG 85) and the other in the Pacific Fleet.

"Selection for this award is a reflection of the professionalism and dedication of these two ships over the past year," said Vice Adm. Richard W. Hunt, Navy Staff director.

Hunt highlighted Stethem's success as the first forward deployed Naval force ship since 2004 to re-deploy out of the Pacific Command area of responsibility and for maintaining peak material readiness during an eight month ballistic missile defense deployment.

The Marjorie Sterrett award is a monetary award that will be placed into Stethem's recreation fund. This will enable the Morale, Welfare and Recreation committee to provide more events, discounts, and activities for Stethem Sailors to enjoy during liberty time with family and friends.

"This award is not only an honor, it's an opportunity," said Lt. j.g. Melissa JonMoore, Stethem recreational services officer. "We have big plans to reward the crew in 2013 for the hard work and sacrifices made in 2012."

"This award is a direct reflection of your dedication to duty," said Cmdr. Christopher W. Adams, Stethem commanding officer. "We faced many challenges in 2012, but we came out successful. The Marjorie Sterrett award, in conjunction with our Battle Efficiency Award, demonstrates our accomplishments as Steelworkers."

Stethem is part of Destroyer Squadron 15, forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan, to support security and stability of the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.


For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy .

For more news from Commander Task Force 70, visit www.navy.mil/local/ctf70/ .