Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Yokosuka's master labor contract employees were honored by the Japanese government with Length of Service Awards Oct. 18.

Twenty-three NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka Japanese personnel known as master labor contractors (MLC) were the recipients of 10-year, 20-year, 30-year and 40-year service awards that reflected their dedication to the US Navy mission in Japan and the strong bonds forged between Japan and the United States (US). Of those receiving commendations, fifteen MLC attended the ceremony held at Yokosuka City Cultural Hall along with hundreds of other MLCs working at various commands onboard Yokosuka naval base.

In his opening remarks, Director General of Japan's South Kanto Defense Bureau Isao Koba congratulated and encouraged MLCs to continue their duties to further support and strengthen the ties between the two nations.

"All of you are engaged in important duties for the smooth and effective operation of installations of the US Forces in Japan," said Koba. I hope you will succeed in your future duties by making full use of your rich knowledge and experience, and further contribute as a bridge between Japan and US through your daily work at your workplace."

NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka Commanding Officer Capt. Frank Nevarez shared similar sentiment and recognized the importance of the local national workforce in the mission.

"MLC account for approximately sixty percent of the Fleet Logistics Center Yokosuka workforce," said Nevarez. "With over 715 MLCs on any given day, they proudly represent the US Navy but also the Government of Japan in this enduring mission in support of the defense of the homeland of Japan."

Satoriko Suzuki, a 30-year service commendation award recipient and NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka training technician, said she would like to use her long experience to support the command continuously.

"Thanks to my job, I have grown in my work as I was given an opportunity to closely work with my American colleagues. It has allowed me to perform my job smoothly," Suzuki said. "Taking advantage of my long experience, I'd like to continue supporting the command."

NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka is one of eight FLCs under Commander, NAVSUP. Headquartered in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, and employing a diverse, worldwide workforce of more than 22,500 military and civilian personnel, NAVSUP's mission is to provide supplies, services, and quality-of-life support to the Navy and joint warfighter.

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