Chief Fire Controlman Robert B. Strupczewski was presented the 2016 George Sirian Service Award aboard USS Constitution, Aug. 26, in recognition of his exemplary performance.

Vice Adm. Tom Rowden, commander, Naval Surface Forces, served as guest speaker for the USS Constitution Chapter of the Surface Navy Association's (SNA) presentation of the prestigious award.

"This award recognizes the one chief petty officer in the surface Navy who most clearly and fully demonstrates the attributes of Master Gunner George Sirian," said Rowden.

The award is named in honor of 19th-century Sailor George Sirian, a refugee from Greece who served three tours on the famous frigate during his naval career of nearly 50 years. Starting as a seaman, he advanced to master gunner before eventually being commissioned as a warrant officer.

Recently inducted to the Navy's Chiefs Mess as an honorary chief, Rowden felt honored to speak at the ceremony that not only recognizes the immediate significant contributions senior enlisted leaders provide the Navy, but also the long-term impact in their service communities.

"As expected from the surface community, there were a lot of hard-chargers nominated," said Rowden. "Congratulations Chief Strupczewski on being selected from a very competitive group."

This year's recipient is currently assigned to guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87). Strupczewski is a native of Runymeade, New Jersey.

"More than ever, every ship needs to be ready to fight and every Sailor needs to be ready for combat," said Rowden. "Navy history and tradition will tell you that a lot of that responsibility is shouldered by the ranks of chief petty officers."

Candidates for the Sirian award must have demonstrated exemplary performance in organization and management skills, mission accomplishment, motivation and leadership, promotion of military service, mentorship of junior Sailors, and vision.

This was the 14th annual presentation of the award.

The USS Constitution Chapter of SNA was established in 1990 and focuses on promoting and maintaining the values of the surface Navy's history, contributions and accomplishments, with special focus on USS Constitution.

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