Capt. Mark Brouker, Naval Hospital Bremerton commanding officer, has been recognized by the Bremerton Chamber of Commerce for the annual Chief Thunderbird Award, which honors people who exemplify outstanding leadership and commitment to the community.

Along with Brouker, Capt. Mark Whitney of Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility will also be honored for representation of the military in the greater Kitsap area.

“I’m touched and honored to accept this on behalf of our entire command. But really, it’s our doctors, nurses, and especially our hospital corpsmen and support staff who always do the lion’s share of volunteering for any number of worthwhile opportunities,” said Brouker.

The Chief Thunderbird award is based upon the recipient being in a leadership position, being involved and making positive contributions to the community, as well as being an exemplary role model. Recipients are selected by the past presidents and current board of directors of the Bremerton-area Chamber of Commerce.

“Community involvement is very evident, staff members are well regarded and we see the commanding officer of such a great Navy facility really involved in supporting many programs and events,” said Cris Larsen, Bremerton chamber member, part of the selection committee and Armed Forces Festival chairman. Larsen joined Steve Green, immediate past president, Bremerton Area Chamber of Commerce, in informing Brouker of the honor.

According to Larsen, the Chief Thunderbird award has been given out for well over 100 years, with a tradition steeped in acknowledging those who go out of their way to support the greater Bremerton and Kitsap area.

“They have established and shown repeatedly such a great willingness to reach out and support in so many ways that we all are very impressed,” said Larsen. 

“Bremerton is really such a special place. There is no place quite like it and the tour my family and I have had here has been great. The support the community shows for our military is truly admirable,” said Brouker.

The Bremerton Chamber award is the second consecutive year in where NHB’s community service has been recognized and honored. The Kitsap and King County American Red Cross recognized NHB with the 2010 Recipient of the Commitment to Community Award.

Last year, Capt. Mark Olson, Naval Base Kitsap commanding officer, was awarded the honor.