SECRETARY OF NAVY PRESENTS SENATOR COLLINS WITH DISTINGUISHED PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD

- In a ceremony in Washington, DC today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, received the Distinguished Public Service Award from Donald Winter, Secretary of the United States Navy. This award is the Navy's highest civilian honor. Admiral Mike Miller presented medals and a citation to Senator Collins on behalf of the Navy.

The citation reads; "For exceptionally distinguished service to the Department of the Navy as a member of Congress and the Senate Committee on Armed Services for January 2006 to January 2009. Senator Collins' selfless devotion to the Nation's Sailors and Marines ensured they were provided the resources necessary to effectively conduct the Global War on Terrorism. Her courageous leadership, vision, and loyalty to the men and women of the Department of the Navy greatly contributed to their quality of life and helped create the most modern and highly trained fighting force in history. As a Member of the Senate Committee on Armed Services, Senator Collins' tireless advocacy helped maintain the Navy and Marine Corps team at the highest levels of combat readiness to meet the challenges of the 21st century. With grateful appreciation for her outstanding contributions to the Nation and the Navy and Marine Corps, Senator Collins is awarded the Department of the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award."

"I am truly honored to receive this recognition," said Senator Collins. "Serving on the Armed Services Committee and being an advocate for the men and women who serve in the United States Navy is a privilege. Maine has a long maritime tradition. I am particularly proud of the hard work and dedication of the shipbuilders at Bath Iron Works and the men and women who work at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. We are all very proud of the contributions the State of Maine makes to a strong Navy. This award means a great deal to me."