At Norfolk Naval Shipyard, success comes from hard work and dedication from a diligent workforce. There are many players involved in servicing the fleet each day, from mechanics to engineers. One of the roles includes ensuring cleanliness is a priority from the bottom, up.

"The Cleanliness Community of Practice (C-CoP) was created in order to build a team of dedicated individuals to work across the shipyard and ensure cleanliness is held to the standard of excellence across the board," said C-CoP Lead J.R. Dulce. "We work hand-in-hand with every shop and code across America’s Shipyard, whether they be non-nuclear or nuclear, and address cleanliness from every aspect of the job. There are so many players here at the shipyard and we are continuing to build the program to make a difference and celebrate those who go above and beyond the call of duty. "

Dulce and the C-CoP wanted to celebrate the wins of the employees in regards to cleanliness and devised the Cleanliness Warriors, a quarterly award given to those who exemplify excellence in their duties. The first annual Cleanliness Warrior Awards were held May 9, awarding two individuals who stood out above the rest – Code 930’s Travis Stocks and Zone Manager Leeroy Runion.

"During Steam Plant cleanliness recovery actions on the MS-12 and MS-13 for an unknown substance, Mr. Stocks assisted Code 260 engineers on multiple occasions," said Code 269 Non-Nuclear Engineering Steam Plant Cleanliness Coordinator John Simmonds. "Mr. Stocks supported EPD during multiple iterations of inspections, attempts to obtain samples of the unknown substance and determine the extent of loss of cleanliness. Mr. Stocks provided ideas, equipment and assistance to EPD during this situation, and aided in the disposition of a loss of steam plant cleanliness."

"Leeroy Runion sets the standard of excellence for being a Code 930 Trade Manager," said Code 930 Submarine Director Lamonte Simmons. "Mr. Runion’s passion and dedication to Norfolk Naval Shipyard allows him to excel in all assignments and challenges presented to him. Mr. Runion manages Steam Plant work across multiple availabilities, on and off-yard, and continues to produce first-time quality results while responsibly handling cost performance. Mr. Runion leads by example and sets the bar for all subordinates assigned to him. He mentors apprentices, mechanics, work leaders, and supervisors while teaching them the technical aspect of Steam Plant work, along with why it’s so important. Mr. Runion is truly a vital asset to Code 930 and Norfolk Naval Shipyard and his leadership within his area of responsibility continues to produce positive results."

Both recipients were awarded a certificate of achievement, a Cleanliness Warrior sticker, a service award, and a C.O.R.E. award.

"You both exemplify and are being awarded for your character and confidence and how you represent this program and the shipyard," said Code 300N Superintendent Jim Crunden. "The foundation of America’s Shipyard is built on hard-working individuals who have the drive and integrity to get the job done. Your efforts are something for others to look up to and we thank you for your continued support to the fleet. Great job!"

Code 900 Cdr. James Kuhlman added, "It takes excellence, leadership, and a high standard of ability and integrity to get the work done each and every day. We hold each of you accountable for your performances and you soared above our expectations. We placed our trust in you and you delivered above the standard of excellence."

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