Storekeeper 1st Class Robert Benedict

"Petty Officer First Class Benedict will volunteer for any leadership position without hesitation and without complaint and is an outstanding example to his fellow sailors," says his immediate supervisor. But it is perhaps the balance he achieves between his personal and professional life that makes him an outstanding member of the community and a shining example to Coast Guard members who serve with him.

As a volunteer in the Partnership in Education program, Petty Officer Benedict works closely with Red Hill Elementary School to assist youth education programs and facility maintenance projects. Petty Officer Benedict also volunteers countless hours as a leader in local youth activities and as a cub scout den leader.

To his fellow crew, Petty Officer Benedict advocates creating a family environment. He initiated the idea of interviewing and profiling his fellow workers in a monthly MWR newsletter section entitled Meet your Mates in order to "get to know the faces we see every day." During the past year, Petty Officer Benedict also initiated and formed the Coast Guard First Class Petty Officer's Association, a volunteer organization that helps community agencies throughout Oahu. Petty Officer Benedict was selected as the Enlisted Person of the Quarter and was the YMCA's Coast Guard selection for community service. Through his community work, care for his fellow Coast Guardsmen and his energy and high level of professionalism, Petty Officer Benedict has enhanced not only the image of the Integrated Support Command, but the Coast Guard as a whole.