May 6, 2015 -- Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany was formally recognized as a Voluntary Protection Program Star Site during a ceremony, May 5, at Covella Pond.
MCLB Albany is the first base in seven years and only the second in the Marine Corps to receive this prestigious designation, according to officials.
In recognition of this honor, a plaque and a flag was presented to Col. Don Davis, commanding officer, MCLB Albany, from Robert Vazzi, area director for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Savannah, Georgia, area office. The flag will be flown over Coffman Hall, Building 3500.
VPP Star Site status is reserved for employers and workers in the private industry and federal agencies, who have implemented effective safety and health management systems and maintained injury and illness rates below national Bureau of Labor Statistics averages for their respective industries, according to OSHA’s website, www.osha.gov/dcsp/vpp.
“You have worked hard to achieve this star and it is well deserved,” Vazzi said.
Gen. John M. Paxton Jr., Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, said he was keenly aware of how hard it was to earn this accomplishment and the prestige the award carries.
“You are truly in a unique category now and it is because of your vision, your hard work and your commitment,” he said.
The hard work is not over, according to Paxton.
“This is a work in progress and the recognition today is step No.1,” the general said.
Billy Taylor, Marine Corps Police Department, MCLB Albany, confirmed earning the star was a lot of work. He said he had to learn a lot in his department, but he understood it was well worth the effort.
“I am proud to say I work on a VPP Star Site facility,” he said.