WASHINGTON -- President George W. Bush awarded Col. Christopher E. O’Connor, the commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, the 2008 Presidential Award for Leadership and Federal Energy Management here Thursday.
The PALFEM honors federal employees for their support, leadership and efforts in promoting and improving federal-energy management.
This year’s award highlighted the innovations made by the Public Works Department across the air station, including energy and water-conservation, the use of renewable resources, building design, training and education.
“For years, MCAS Miramar has been at the forefront on energy conservation by constantly developing better energy management practices and technology,” stated O’Connor. “I am exceptionally proud to accept this honor on their behalf. Through their hard work, MCAS Miramar personnel set the example on energy conservation for others to follow when considering options to preserve our precious natural resources.”
Besides claiming the title of most energy-efficient installation in the Marine Corps, the station also proved to be best among all other federal agencies. The station received the 2008 Navy and Marine Corps Platinum Energy Award and the 2008 Federal Energy and Water Management Award.
“We could not have accomplished what we are being awarded for without group effort, communication and support from our senior staff,” said Randy Monohan, the station’s energy manager with the Public Works Division.
During the past year, the station conserved more than 29 million gallons of water, began implementing solar panels and is on track to completing the most energy efficient building (the new Golf Course Club House) within the Marine Corps.
“We have an exceptional energy management team consisting of Marines, sailors and civilian Marines who will continue to improve energy efficiency because it our duty to be good stewards of the environment,” finished O’Connor.