Chief Gunner’s Mate Blake R. Wohl was presented with the 2018 USS Constitution Master Gunner George Sirian Meritorious Service Award aboard USS Constitution during Chief Petty Officer leadership week, August 31. 

Rear Adm. Jesse A. Wilson Jr., commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic, served as the guest speaker for the USS Constitution Chapter of the Surface Navy Association’s (SNA) presentation of the award.

The annual award is presented to the one chief petty officer in the surface Navy who most clearly and fully demonstrates the attributes of Master Gunner George Sirian.  Nominees were selected and evaluated by their technical expertise, dedication, leadership, and operational excellence in surface warfare skills.     

“As the son of a master chief, it is my distinct honor to be here aboard 'Old Ironsides' to recognize the outstanding contributions of one of our many leaders, and to also recognize the significant contributions senior leaders provide to the surface force,” Wilson said. “The service and sacrifice of Master Gunner George Sirian lives within you and this great ship.”   

“Congratulations Chief Wohl on your selection of this award amongst an extremely competitive group of tactical, technical experts, and dedicated leaders.”

This year’s recipient is currently assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105), homeported in San Diego. Wohl is a native of Burien, Wash.

Underway and aboard the Constitution, Wilson spoke about history and tradition, as well as the vital mission of the surface force.     

“We must be ready for the fight, ready when called upon and prevail when tested. We must be proficient in high-end warfare and maintain a competitive advantage,” Wilson said. 

The award is named in honor of 19th century Sailor George Sirian, a refugee from Greece who served three tours on the famous frigate during his naval career of nearly 50 years. Starting as a seaman, he advanced to master gunner before eventually being commissioned as a warrant officer.

Constitution, America's Ship of State, actively defended sea lanes against global threats from 1797-1855. The World's Oldest Commissioned Warship Afloat, Constitution embodies 220 years of maritime heritage and unwavering service to her country. Now a featured destination on Boston's Freedom Trail, Constitution and her crew of active duty U.S. Navy Sailors offer community outreach and education about the ship's history and the importance of naval sea power to more than 500,000 visitors each year. Constitution is berthed at Pier One in Charlestown Navy Yard.

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