The Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John M. Richardson awarded the Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation (MUC) to the Navy Exchange Service Command for meritorious service from Aug. 1 to Nov. 30, 2017, for its response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Irma.

Twenty-six NEXCOM Enterprise associates from headquarters and the Southeast and Mid-South districts were specifically honored for their work with the Naval Supply Systems Command’s Fleet Logistic Center Jacksonville, Florida Enterprise Logistics Response Team. In addition, several NEXCOM headquarters associates were also recognized at a command ceremony for their assistance during Hurricane Irma’s recovery efforts as well.

“Being awarded the Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation is a significant achievement for a Navy command,” said retired Rear Adm. Robert J. Bianchi, Chief Executive Officer of NEXCOM. “I’m honored that NEXCOM received this award for all the efforts our associates provided in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. As a Navy command, NEXCOM lends its support whenever possible before, during and after significant weather events.”

In the days and weeks following the hurricane, NEXCOM, its Mid-South District and NEX Key West associates worked together to get its facilities up and running and supplies to the base as quickly as possible for the Sailors and their families stationed in that hard-hit area. Three days after Hurricane Irma hit, NEX Key West mini mart opened for business and in less than 10 days NEX Key West re-opened. A temporary barber shop was opened in base Commanding Officer’s office. Navy Lodge Key West also quickly re-opened to assist displaced military members. In addition, NEXCOM’s Telecommunications Program Office coordinated with one of its vendor partners to provide cellular communication and Wi-Fi to relief workers. 

The Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation is awarded to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that has distinguished itself, under combat or non-combat conditions, by either valorous or meritorious achievement, which renders the unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service. Former Secretary of the Navy John T. McNaughton established the MUC in 1967 to recognize units which display valorous or meritorious achievement.

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