USS Makin Island awarded for battle effectiveness

The USS Makin Island was given the 2016 Battle Effectiveness Award, the second time the ship has won that honor. The award was announced by Navy Vice Adm. Thomas Rowden, who is a commander of Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

The award acknowledges a command’s performance in an operational environment with overall superior ability.

Navy Capt. Mark Melson, the ship's commanding officer, said the award meant more than “just a pat on the back.”

“It is a testament to the crew’s hard work and ownership that make this the best ship in its class," Melson said. "With every inspection, this crew demonstrated that they were the waterfront standard and their performance on a combat deployment continues to inspire me. The sailors of this great warship should wear their ribbons with pride."

The requirements for vessels to be considered for the award demand that they meet four of the five Command Excellence Awards during the competition.

The Makin Island won excellence in maritime warfare, command and control, logistics management and ship safety.

“The crew’s efforts sustained the health of the ship, and we were able to support a range of critical maritime security operations without stopping for [a mid-deployment voyage repair],” Melson said.

The ship belongs to the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group.