Navy Environmental and Preventive Medicine Unit FIVE (NEPMU-5) was selected as the winner of the Navy Community Service Program's (NCSP) Campaign Drug Free Flagship Award for 2017 in the small shore category.

The award recognizes units with the best program that reaches out to teach children about the dangers of drug abuse.

The Navy's Community Service Program provides opportunities for Navy military and civilian employees to volunteer for meaningful command-sponsored community service projects. Through this program, Navy volunteers make a difference by strengthening education, preserving the environment, providing humanitarian assistance, and promoting anti-drug and healthy lifestyles.

"We are truly humbled and grateful for playing a part in winning this award. Our team put their heart and soul into teaching the kids at our partnered school about the harmful effects of drugs and alcohol and how it could affect their lives and the people around them," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Byron Hewitt, NEPMU-5 preventive medicine technician.

NEPMU-5 has built a strong relationship with local community members and has developed a close partnership with a local elementary school, Olympic View Elementary, for a number of years. Additionally, the staff are highly committed in mentoring the children throughout the area and serving as positive role models.

"It makes me feel good to be able to reach out to the community and build relationships to benefit our future generation. Giving back to the community is my passion and I am grateful to have the opportunity to participate," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Yang Yang, NEPMU-5 preventive medicine technician.

NEPMU-5 is committed to ongoing engagement in the community especially with providing support and assisting in the education and enrichment of youth in local schools, overall helping to improve quality of life in all areas served.

"This award not only encompasses the hard work and dedication of the command, but also the enlisted Sailors' ambassadorship to the San Diego County community. I am very proud of what we accomplished and our continuous partnership with the community that supports us," said Chief Hospital Corpsman Diane Kouolavongsa, NEPMU-5 senior enlisted leader.

"It is extremely important to invest in the empowerment and education of our youth in today's generation. As a military member, we have a significant influence on the lives and thoughts of young people. We take every opportunity to mentor and communicate to the population we serve in hopes of building connections and partnerships that have a lasting impact. This award is a reflection of the unit's strong dedication to serving the community by fostering a drug free environment," said Cmdr. Shelton Lyons, officer in charge NEPMU-5.

For more information regarding NEPMU-5 check out their website at www.nepmu5.med.navy.mil.

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For more news from Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center, visit www.navy.mil/.