Naval Station Everett celebrated 15 years of service to the Navy and the local community during a luncheon Friday at the Grand Vista Ballroom on the naval station.

The Everett area Chamber of Commerce and other distinguished guests including Everett Mayor Ray Stephanson, Marysville Mayor Dennis Kendall and Washington state Congressman Rick Larsen gathered with station personnel to recognize the impact NAVSTA Everett Sailors and civilians have on the community.

NAVSTA Everett Com-manding Officer, Capt. Thomas Mascolo, provided guests with a state of the station update covering current base projects including the new 500-bed barracks and a new training facility that will allow Sailors to spend less time away from home when in port.  He also highlighted the contributions NAVSTA Everett Sailors and civilians make to the local community. Sailors volunteer thousands of hours for various organizations, Mascolo said.  “We know our success in accomplishing the Navy’s worldwide mission depends heavily on our ability to work closely and productively with our civilian neighbors here at home.”

He recognized the Everett and Marysville Chambers of Commerce, Navy League, Rotary and other service organizations for their support to Sailors and families.  “It’s good knowing we do not have to face all our challenges alone,” Mascolo said. The Everett Chamber of Commerce Navy Affairs Committee recognized four individuals for their commitment to Sailors and the community.  Master-at-Arms 1st Class Roger Mundy of NAVSTA Everett Security Department; Machinery Technician 1st Class Jared Crotwell from Coast Guard Cutter USCGC Henry Blake; Jennifer Foster, who works for the Fleet Readiness division of NAVSTA Everett’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation Department; and Angela Armer of NAVSTA Everett’s Fleet and Family Support Center were awarded a plaque for their efforts.  “It’s truly an honor to represent NAVSTA Everett and be recognized by the Chamber,” Mundy said.