The Naval Station Rota community gathered together Sept. 12, 2017 to witness a feat that has never been done before, a three-peat of winning the Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) Bingham Award.

The rare feat was the culmination of Rota NEX General Manager Stephen Morales and his talented roster of managers and associates working together, resulting in outstanding performance in operations, customer service and community support.

It was also something that Morales predicted during last year's Bingham Award ceremony.

"I stand here before all of you humbled and grateful," said Morales. "It was almost one year ago where I stood at this podium recognizing Rota NEX for winning their second Bingham Award in a row. On that day, I also told our skipper that I would be going for a three-peat, which I knew would be difficult task but I knew the Rota NEX staff was capable of achieving. Today, almost a year later, we've been recognized for the third year in a row. This is a rare exceptional achievement for our store and staff. We appreciate everyone's support as we continue to strive every day to exceed your expectations and ours."

According to Robert Bianchi, NEXCOM CEO, the award is presented to the best of the best NEXs in nine sales categories for overall financial results and customer service. Naval Station Rota's NEX was the category three winner for sales between $20 and $30 million.

"Celebrations like this today highlight the true spirit, dedication and professionalism of our associates," said Robert Bishop, NEXCOM Europe District vice president. "These associates are the heart of our mission success to provide quality goods and services and savings, supporting Navy quality of life programs, premier customer service and satisfaction. This award is presented to both the Navy Exchange and the local command to recognize their partnership and commitment to the support and quality of life for our military members and their families."

Capt. Michael MacNicholl, Naval Station Rota commanding officer, discussed how truly important it is to have the close partnership that we do with our local Navy Exchange.

"This award just shows a small token of the value that our Navy Exchange provides to service members and their families," said MacNicholl. "Your partnership is a key ingredient within Team Rota. We recently had a crew full of Sailors and Marines pull in that have been away from home for nearly six months. You are providing an invaluable service to them; a little touch of home and comfort while they are here in Rota, which they couldn't get on deployment. You are a cornerstone to our community. Thank you!"

Naval Station Rota enables and supports operations of U.S. and allied forces and provides quality services in support of the fleet, fighter, and family for Commander, Navy Installations Command in Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia.

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