Aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) received the Retention Excellence Award for fiscal year 2016, Jan. 11.

The award, announced by Commander, United States Fleet Forces Command, is given to commands which pass the annual Career Information Program Review (CIPR) with a score of 90 points or better and meet benchmarks showing commitment to the growth and development of Sailors. GHWB's CIPR score was 98 percent.

Retention Excellence awardees are authorized to fly the Retention Excellence pennant and ships are authorized to paint their anchors gold.

Navy counselors and command career counselors are key figures in the career development of Sailors. They offer career guidance and assist commands in organizing and implementing enlisted career information programs such as Career Waypoints (C-Way), reenlistments, permanent change of station orders, career development boards, and they serve as Transition Assistance program managers, providing counseling on veteran benefits and relocation programs.

Less than 150 collateral-duty career counselors support a crew of more than 3,000 Sailors aboard GHWB.

"Our team of counselors made this possible," said Senior Chief Navy Counselor Kim Lewis, senior career counselor aboard GHWB. "They take care of the Sailors here and ensure they are armed with the best information to make decisions about their careers."

Lewis said the career counselor's commitment to a Sailor's future is essential to retention, as well as recruiting.

"At the end of the day, it's about taking care of Sailors," said Lewis. "Even if they leave the Navy at the end of their tour, their best interests will be looked out for. They'll spread the word to potential recruits, which helps future recruiting efforts."

Conducting career development boards (CDBs) is a large part of successfully retaining Sailors. These boards let Sailors set goals for their future and learn about opportunities available to them.

"CDBs are an opportunity for Sailors to let their chain of command know what they want in their careers," said Lewis. "It helps seniors get more familiar with their Sailors' goals and desires. It also is an opportunity for them to provide their Sailors with information about opportunities they may not be aware of. CDBs give all Sailors the best opportunity to succeed, regardless of their future plans."

GHWB is currently deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility.

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