For the second year in a row, a Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU) Keesler instructor was recognized as Biloxi, Mississippi's, Volunteer of the Year (Military) during a ceremony April 25 at the Dr. Frank Gruich Sr. Community Center in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Andrew Tracy received the award from Biloxi Mayor Andrew Gilich after being nominated for his work with the Gulf Coast Women's Center for Nonviolence. Tracy, an Electronics Calibration and Maintenance Course instructor, also serves as CNATTU Keesler's volunteer coordinator, and said community involvement is a driving force in his desire to serve.

"You move around a lot in the Navy, and it's not always your choice where you end up," Tracy said. "Being able to affect a positive change wherever I'm stationed is important. We have a responsibility to be the role model for our junior Sailors and the community, and I hope I can instill a desire in others to give back to their communities."

The 34th annual Biloxi Volunteer Recognition Ceremony is designed to recognize individuals who volunteer in the areas of health, community, arts and history, education, military, non-profits, youth and sports.

Businesses, adults, and youth groups are recognized during the event.

Aviation Electronics Technician Airman Tao Liu, representing the multi-service Keesler Air Force Base Fishbowl Student Ministry Center White Rope Program, was awarded the Volunteer of the Year (Military Group).

"For one of our staff and students to be recognized as the Military Volunteer of the Year in an area with so much military representation is a truly remarkable accomplishment," said CNATTU Keesler Commanding Officer Cmdr. Timothy Knapp. "I couldn't be prouder of these service members, and the outstanding presence and professionalism they exhibit to our students, our fellow service members and the city of Biloxi."

CNATTU Keesler trains service members in the electronic calibration of afloat and aviation equipment, meteorological and oceanographic observing and forecasting and the maintenance and repair of meteorological equipment.

CNATTU Keesler is a training unit of the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training located at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida. CNATT develops, delivers and supports aviation technical training at 27 sites located throughout the continental United States and Japan.

CNATT is a technical training agent for the Naval Aviation Enterprise; an organization designed to advance and sustain naval aviation warfighting capabilities at an affordable cost, and is the largest training center under Naval Education and Training Command.

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