Seven Sailors from the Navy Environmental and Preventive Medicine Unit Five (NEPMU-5) volunteered to clean up the local bay as part of Operation Clean Sweep (OCS) led by San Diego Port Tenants Association, Aug. 25. 

During the event, the team received complimentary t-shirts, water, gloves and trash bags, and an assignment to a cleanup area in an effort to keep the bay free of trash and debris.

“It was great to see such a large military presence supporting a neighborhood cleanup and it was cool to be a part of,” said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Tyellis Greenprice, administration department staff, NEPMU-5.

“I participated in the main street cleanup to support both NEMPU-5 and FY-19 chief petty officer selectees. Walking around Barrio Logan picking up trash was a rewarding experience that I would like to do again next year,” said Chief Hospital Corpsman Augustine Torrez IV, fleet support department senior enlisted leader, NEPMU-5.

Operation Clean Sweep was created in 1990 by the Marine Trades Association for the purpose of enhancing recreational boating. The goal was to provide an opportunity for people to get out on the San Diego Bay while providing a service to the waterfront community. Since OCS began in 1990, nearly 42 sites have been cleaned, over 14,000 people have volunteered to help and over 370 boats have been donated. Event volunteers combed port Tidelands shores and water of San Diego Bay to dispose of litter and debris, simultaneously protecting wildlife and beautifying the bay.

“I am extremely proud of our team for taking the time to participate in this event and making a significant impact in our community and the surrounding area,” said Capt. Peter Obenauer, officer in charge, NEPMU-5. “Their efforts not only enhance community outreach initiatives but also improve unit morale and strengthen camaraderie amongst Sailors and their families. We are committed to maintaining our leadership as environmental stewards and will continue to support community cleanup efforts as a unit throughout the year.”

NEPMU-5 is constantly developing its already strong, supportive relationships with the surrounding communities by ensuring that its Sailors are involved in efforts that truly make a difference in the lives of others.

For more news from NEPMU-5, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/nepmu5 or follow NEPMU-5 on Facebook at www.facebook.com/nepmu5. 

For more news from Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center, visit www.navy.mil/. 

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