The amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) earned the Retention Excellence Award for fiscal year 2017, Jan. 26. This marks the third consecutive year Bataan has won the award representing commitment to the growth and development of Sailors.

Previously known as the Golden Anchor Award; U.S. Fleet Forces Command created the annual award to recognize commands which sustain exceptional levels of retention and superior accomplishment in executing programs and policies which best enable Sailors to succeed in their Navy careers.

"This is outstanding work of every Bataan Sailor across the board," said Executive Officer, Capt. Gregory Leland. "This award is a reflection of the phenomenal fighting force we have on board and their hard work and investment into our Navy."

One of the Navy's top priorities is maintaining fleet readiness, and the effective execution of personnel programs and policies are critical elements to retaining top-quality Sailors to meet the Navy's goal. Committed and involved leadership, clear policies, and support of Navy quality-of-life programs have a direct and positive impact on Sailor behavior, retention, and keeping technical knowledge and expertise within the Navy.

The Retention Award is given by USFF to commands that pass the annual career information program review with a score of 90 points or better; Bataan earned a score of 96, had zero fail to submit Career Waypoints applications, met all aggregate reenlistment benchmarks of 35 percent for zone A, 51 percent for zone B, 60 percent for zone C, and a total of 5 percent or less aggregate attrition for fiscal year 16.

Bataan's 60 career counselors ensured more than 1100 Sailors careers stayed on track for success; which authorized Bataan to paint her anchors gold and fly the retention excellence pennant as a symbol of earning the award for another year.

"It is a great accomplishment and it took team work from the whole command development team," remarked Navy Career Counselor 1st Class Jose Plamarrero. "We would not have accomplished this goal without the help of all my department and division career counselors."

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