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Hoyer Receives U.S. Navy's Distinguished Public Service Award

May 13, 2015

WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday on Capitol Hill, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) was presented with the Department of the Navy's Distinguished Public Service Award by U.S. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus. The award is the highest recognition that the Secretary can give to a civilian not employed by the Navy. It was awarded to Congressman Hoyer for his years of service to the nation and his contributions to the Navy and Marine Corps.

"I was honored to receive the Navy's Distinguished Public Service Award yesterday from Secretary Mabus," said Congressman Steny Hoyer. "I am committed to supporting our men and women Sailors and Marines, and their families, who have bravely served our country and give them the recognition and benefits they have earned. I am proud to represent Patuxent River Naval Air Station and the Naval Surface Warfare Center at Indian Head in the Fifth Congressional District, and I will continue to advocate for these military installations and our military service members."

"This award stands as a testament to Congressman Hoyer's unwavering commitment to our nation's Sailors, Marines and their families. We are truly fortunate to have such a strong advocate for the Navy and Marine Corps in Congress," said Secretary Ray Mabus.

The citation from Secretary Mabus reads as follows:

"For exceptional service to the Department of the Navy as a member of Congress and the House Appropriations Committee. Congressman Hoyer's long and selfless service to the Nation's Sailors and Marines ensured they were provided the resources necessary to support and defend the Nation's interests around the globe. His courageous leadership as the House Majority Leader, House Minority Whip and former senior member of the Appropriations Committee greatly contributed to the quality of the United States' naval forces, continued support for quality of life for the men and women of the Department of the Navy, and assured the Navy-Marine Corps team was the most lethal force in history. Congressman Hoyer's tireless advocacy for American Seapower ensured the highest levels of readiness for our combat forces. With grateful appreciation for his 33 years of service to the Nation and his outstanding contributions to the Navy and Marine Corps, the Honorable Steny Hoyer is awarded the Department of the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award."

The Navy's Distinguished Public Service Award was established in 1951 and is given to civilians for specific courageous or heroic acts or exceptionally outstanding service of substantial and long-term benefit to the Navy and Marine Corps.