POLARIS POINT, Guam - The submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) outshined all other large overseas based commands in the Pacific by receiving its third "Overall Award" for the Navy Community Service Environmental Stewardship Flagship Award received through a message, Nov. 2011.

The Environmental Stewardship Flagship Award was presented to Frank Cable for its outstanding volunteer community services (COMSERV). Frank Cable was also recognized for supported programs and special projects that promoted education and good stewardship of environmental resources in the last fiscal year.

"The significance of this award shows that the Sailors here in Guam care about the environment and are glad to help cleanup and preserve the wildlife," said Religious Programs Specialist Seaman Donald Bishop.

Bishop also said the environment is a very important aspect in our life and it is important to everyone to help clean and keep it healthy.

Over 800 Sailors have contributed their off time computing to more than 300 hours in 60 volunteered COMSERV events within the local Guam community and various countries during port visits.

"It shows the Navy's commitment in protecting the environment," said Religious Programs Specialist 1st Class Christine Tamag. "It strengthens community ties and provides opportunities for Navy, military and civilian employees to volunteer for meaningful command sponsored community service projects."

Frank Cable Sailors focused their volunteering efforts in enhancing environmental science curricula for schools, developing youth environmental stewardship within the communities and conducting clean-ups that taught environmental values through organized COMSERVs.

Sailors also created a trail for the Guam National Wildlife Refuge and participated in several beach cleanups on Guam. During port visits in Hong Kong and the Republic of the Philippines, they landscaped an orphanage garden and conducted road cleanups inside the communities. "We work hand in hand with the locals when we are at these projects," said Bishop. "They see that we want to help them and take care of their homeland."

The Stewardship Award is one of five Flagship Awards given to the overall Navy through the Community Service Program Package. The annual package includes Project Good Neighbor, Personal Excellence Partnership, Safety and Fitness and Campaign Drug Free.

"Navy volunteers make a difference by strengthening education, preserving the environment, providing humanitarian assistance, and promoting anti-drug and healthy lifestyles," said Tamag. "Thank you for volunteering your time and giving us the opportunity to work together and make a difference."

Frank Cable conducts maintenance and support of submarines and surface vessels deployed in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility.