The Supply department aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) received the fiscal year 2014 Navy Exchange Command Ship's Store Retail and Services Excellence Award, Oct.30. Commander, Naval Supply Systems Command Global Logistics Support, (NAVSUP GLS), Rear Adm. James R. McNeal, presented the award to Makin Island for the command's contributions to the ship's mission through exemplary performance and positive impact on the overall morale of the crew. "Our division made sure our shelves were always stocked in the ship's store, our vending machines were full, and we had a nice variety of products as well," said Lt. j.g. Michael Bragg, the former S-3 division officer, from Pensacola, Florida. "The standard of excellence started with leadership and flowed to the Sailors who took ownership of their store. The Sailors are very proud of the store and outstanding customer service this award represents." Ship's Serviceman 3rd Class Aaron Fischbach, from Murrieta, California, one of the S-3 division Sailors who work in the ship's store, expressed his pride in the division's accomplishment. "We're honored to be recognized for a Navy-wide award because not every ship can say they've received an award based on boosting the crew's morale," said Fischbach. "It's great to know that you're doing your job well also." Standing by the motto, "one team, one fight", Chief Ship's Serviceman Jose Lopez, a native of Laredo, Texas, recognized the award as bigger than just the contributions of one division. "I'm incredibly proud of the ship's servicemen on board both past and present who have displayed exemplary dedication and commitment," said Lopez. "However, the entire ship's crew and embarked Marines played a role in this noteworthy accomplishment, whether it was aiding in working parties or simply making purchases and keeping us in business." Makin Island is currently pierside San Diego completing a CNO Phased Maintenance Availability (PMA).