USS The Sullivans, USS Doyle Nominated For Ney

This prestigious award honors those ships that represent an impeccable standard in the general mess. With this nomination, The Sullivans and Doyle have demonstrated a commitment to food service operational excellence. The nominations indicate sustained superior performance and dedication to improving quality of life afloat.

"This is great news for Supply Department," Cmdr. Neil Funtanilla, commanding officer of The Sullivans, said. "But I also recognize this is a total team effort - Engineers have to keep the galley equipment running and Sailors from all departments work hard as Food Service Assistants."

Without the support of the entire crew, this award would not be possible.

During the Standing NATO Maritime Group Two's maiden out-of-area deployment, The Sullivans hosted foreign dignitaries in Kuwait City, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Additionally, the Supply Department hosted the Royal Saudi Naval Forces in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and the Indian Navy in Cochin, India. In all, The Sullivans hosted over 400 foreign military members and civilians during her Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group Deployment 2008. The bonds formed through good food, drink, and conversation made a lasting impression on the United States' allies and was critical to the mission of both NATO and the United States.

The Sullivans is one of four finalists in contention for the prestigious award in the Medium Afloat Category. She is joined by USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) of Norfolk, Virginia, USS O'Kane (DDG 77) of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and USS Tortuga (LSD 46) of Sasebo, Japan. USS Doyle (FFG 39), joins The Sullivans on the list with her nomination in the Small Afloat Category. She will compete against Pacific Fleet's USS Vandegrift (FFG 48) for the top spot among 30 frigate messes.

"USS Doyle's food service division works long days that often go from 0400-2300. Nomination for this award is recognition for all of the hard work they have done," said Lt. Donald Toso, Doyle's Supply Officer.

"Doyle has great leadership within the food service division, who understand that it's more than just cooking food and serving it. They bring a 'Never Say No' attitude to table and recognize that we are in the customer service business. These guys genuinely care about food service and the morale and welfare it provides to the crew."

USS Doyle, under the meticulous planning of the food service division, hosted four major receptions and eight VIP luncheons in Central and South America during their Southern Seas 2009 deployment. Their service, food quality, and presentation were unparalleled, receiving raving reviews from guests and contributing to Doyle's mission success in Theater Security Cooperation and Public Relations.

The final judging for both ships will be held in the next few months to determine the winner in each category.