Volunteers from Naval Supply Systems Command Global Logistics Support (NAVSUP GLS) participated in a 8th grade graduation ceremony at Golden Hill School, July 21.

Capt. Mike Wilson, NAVSUP GLS chief of staff was the guest speaker as 38 students at the command's Navy Personal Excellence Partnership school received the San Diego Unified School District decree to move on to high school.

Wilson spoke to the students and hundreds of their family members and friends who came out to support the achievement.

"Like the Navy, we can accomplish greater results by working together as a team rather than as individuals; individually, today is a big accomplishment in your life," said Wilson. "However, it was the team of your parents, family, teachers, and school staff that helped you reach this milestone. As you move forward in your education you need to take ownership and ask questions. This trait -- to be inquisitive and always learning throughout your life -- will guide you to success in the future."

The graduates then received their certificates from Principal Juan Romo and shook hands with Wilson, who congratulated each graduate.

NAVSUP GLS started the personal Excellence Partnership with Golden Hill School in collaboration with San Diego Unified School District February 2015, with a formal signing of a memorandum of understanding between Vice Principal Susan Devicariis and NAVSUP GLS Commander, Rear Adm. James McNeal.

Since then, volunteers from NAVSUP GLS have participated in a myriad of events to expand relationships with Golden Hill School students through tutoring and mentorship, and to assist special needs students. These events include 'Family Fridays' every third Friday of the month, a Memorial Day flag ceremony, an annual Fall Festival, and a sports day program promoting healthy food choices and physical education. NAVSUP GLS volunteers also participate in a quarterly 'Admiral's Awards' ceremony for students who take ownership of their learning.

As part of NAVSUP GLS' partnership with the school, volunteer Sailors and civilians from the command augment and work with the students whose parents are unable to attend the events.

The Navy Personal Excellence Partnership Program is a collaborative effort among Navy commands, public and/or private sector organizations, and schools or youth organizations. The intent is to obtain and pool resources and volunteers for the purpose of strengthening the personal excellence of American youth.

The long-term goal of the program is to promote a sense of self-worth and to reinforce in young people the knowledge, traits, attitudes, and skills essential for responsible citizenship and effective participation in the American workforce.

Through this program, Navy volunteers tutor, mentor, provide technical expertise, and serve as role models. Project goals include improving scholastic achievement, social and life skills, and providing vocational guidance.

NAVSUP GLS provides global logistics for a global Navy. The organization is made up of more than 6,500 military and civilian logistics professionals operating from 105 locations worldwide, providing an extensive array of integrated global logistics and contracting services to Navy, Marine Corps, joint operational units, and allied forces across all warfare enterprises.

For more information, visit http://www.navy.mil, http://www.facebook.com/usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Naval Supply Systems Command, visit http://www.navy.mil/.