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    Port Operations Sailor Named SPOM

    Port Operations Sailor Named SPOM

    Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Tristan Lotz | 210420-N-ME396-1014 GROTON, Conn. (April 20, 2021) Chief Machinist’s Mate Jeffrey...... read more read more

    GROTON, CONNECTICUT, UNITED STATES

    04.20.2021

    Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class Tristan Lotz 

    Subase New London

    GROTON, Conn. – A Sailor assigned to Port Operations Department onboard Naval Submarine Base (SUBASE) New London was recognized as Service Person of the Month (SPOM) during a virtual ceremony, April 20.

    New York City native Hull Maintenance Technician 2nd Class Michael Modugno was honored by the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut (the Chamber) and the Groton Rotary Club for his outstanding performance of his official duties.

    “Petty Officer Modugno has established himself as a leading work center supervisor for Port Operations, building cohesiveness and the ability to get the job done,” said Dara Wicken, a representative of the Chamber. “He has earned high admiration from his seniors and juniors in [SUBASE New London] and 18 tenant commands. As a senior watch stander, he trained 14 Sailors, four of which are now Port Operations duty officers.”

    In addition to supporting SUBASE New London’s mission of sending combat-ready submarines to sea, Modugno has also volunteered 14 hours of his free time helping beautification efforts at the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge in Washington County, Rhode Island. Modugno’s supervisor, Chief Machinist’s Mate Jeffrey Bealmear, praised his strong work ethic and humility in getting the job done.

    “Petty Officer Modugno is one of the best people that I’ve ever worked with,” said Bealmear. “He’s done a great job at keeping the team going and really motivating everyone every day when he comes to work. He’s the kind of person who doesn’t like to talk about all the things he does outside the Navy, but it definitely supports the community from everything I’ve seen and heard.”

    Despite his quiet humility, Modugno had a few words prepared to express his thanks to the Chamber and Groton Rotary, as well as to his chain of command and family.

    “I would first like to thank the Rotary for recognizing our service members and supporting military personnel as well as their families,” said Modugno. “I would like to thank the Navy for selecting me for this honor. I would also like to thank my parents for instilling in me a great work ethic and the value of community. They inspired me at a young age to give back. Whether it be from volunteering to usher at my local church, shoveling my neighbors’ walkways, serving at a soup kitchen, donating clothes to the less fortunate or coaching or refereeing youth sports, I was more than happy to help.”

    Bealmear presented Modugno a Letter of Commendation from SUBASE New London Commanding Officer Capt. Todd Moore. Members of the Chamber and Rotary Club also said Modugno would receive prizes, including a plaque and gift certificates, in the mail.

    The SPOM Program is organized by the Chamber and local service clubs such as the Groton Rotary to honor local military personnel of all branches who not only excel in their regular duties, but also go above and beyond in their contributions to their community.

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 04.20.2021
    Date Posted: 05.11.2021 11:37
    Story ID: 396117
    Location: GROTON, CONNECTICUT, US

    Web Views: 113
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN