Mandatory is a word well known by every Sailor around the fleet. Many things ranging from standing duty to shining your boots are all caught under the net of mandated instruction. Volunteering, as per the definition, is not one of those things. Some Sailors go above and beyond the standard definition and the community wants to reward them for their big hearts.

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) received nominations for two Sailors among a group of 28 from around Hampton Roads who were honored at the 2017 Military Civilian of the Year Award Luncheon, hosted by Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce. The event was held at Norfolk Waterside Marriot on Oct. 12.

Master-at-Arms 1st Class Alan Anderson and Operations Specialist 1st Class Jane Michelle Tupas-Abuel were the two GW Sailors who were recognized for their extensive efforts in serving among the widespread community of Hampton Roads.

For Tupas-Abuel volunteering is not sporadic chore to work into her schedule, it is a regular occurrence.

"I just do my thing," said Tupas-Abuel. "When something comes up and they need people to sign up for volunteer event, I sign up. It's like a routine every week for me."

Anderson had a very similar mindset where it was not actually an accommodation as much as it is a way of life. He was also just as stunned that a nomination came from it.

"I was quite surprised," said Anderson. "This is more of something I love to do whether I was nominated or not, I would still continue to do what I do."

Among the Sailors nominated this year, few were nominated from ships or sea commands. Among those scarce few, two were from GW.

"I think it's pretty awesome that there were two people just from USS George Washington who were selected as nominees for this award," said Anderson. "I am just happy to be here to have the opportunity to represent our command."

George Washington once said, "When we assumed the Soldier, we did not lay aside the Citizen." Those words are forever true within the hearts of the service members nominated for the 2017 Military Citizen Award, and no less true for the Sailors aboard the USS George Washington.

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