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By Krista K. Catian, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Pacific Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) — Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Commander Rear Adm. Kate Gregory presented the Peggy B. Craig Lifetime Service Award to Arlene Yoshioka March 13 at NAVFAC Pacific headquarters.

“There are certain people that what they devote to an organization transcends their paycheck, their pay grade and transcends the name on their billet title,” said Gregory. “They run the organization through sheer force, love, experience and care and that is what Arlene does for us. We are so lucky that she has graced us with all of her work and has been such a devoted servant to our great government.”

Yoshioka, secretary for NAVFAC Pacific Commander and senior leadership, was selected for her lasting dedication, professional contribution, and unfailing commitment to the NAVFAC organization for 50 years.

“I am extremely humbled and honored to receive this great recognition,” said Yoshioka. “I've been with NAVFAC for 50 years and this award culminates all those years. I started with NAVFAC 50 years ago and will retire from NAVFAC. I have met so many people, made many friends and am so thankful for all the support I've received throughout the years. I want to thank everybody who has made an impact on my life and career.”

The Peggy B. Craig Lifetime Service Award is awarded to individuals who have led a life of service, selflessness, devotion and dedication to NAVFAC, the Civil Engineer Corps and Seabee Communities. Individuals chosen for this award demonstrate professionalism, have made a positive and enduring impact on the organization and have a strong sense of servant leadership.

“This award recognizes someone in NAVFAC who served at the ultimate level of loyalty, dedication in service and in this case love for all of us, our Navy and NAVFAC,” said Rear Adm. Bret Muilenburg, NAVFAC Pacific commander. “Arlene embodies the character, integrity and professional excellence and is well-deserving of this prestigious award.”

Yoshioka has mentored and provided wise counsel to commanders, vice commanders, aides and senior civilian leadership with her seemingly boundless corporate knowledge built over her career. Her day-to-day duties, along with planning morale-boosting command functions are met with positivity and optimism, while maintaining a relaxed yet efficient work environment throughout a high paced, high pressure command. Her spiritual gift to serve others comes naturally as her warm and friendly demeanor is one of sincere care and boundless compassion, which is reflective of Hawaii's valued “Aloha” spirit.

“I've committed much of my time and energy to the NAVFAC organization and have enjoyed this amazing journey,” said Yoshioka. “I'd especially like to thank my husband and family for their continued support and encouragement. Family is my number one priority, and I am proud to call NAVFAC Pacific my Ohana.”

“I want to thank Arlene's family because we know how much she gives to us and the time it takes and the behind the scenes stuff she does for us and I know that comes with the expense of your family,” said Gregory. “From all of us to your family thank you very much for the sacrifices you've made to make her successful because she makes us successful, so thank you very much.”

The Peggy B. Craig Lifetime Service Award was established in 2012 in memory of Peggy B. Craig, who faithfully served as a Navy civil servant for 48 years and as the special assistant to 12 consecutive Chiefs of Civil Engineers. The award is presented annually to active or retired civil servants in NAVFAC, First Naval Construction Division, the Center for Seabees and Facilities Engineering or subordinate units who have served over the course of 20 years or more.