U.S. Office of Personnel Management - Ensuring the Federal Government has an effective civilian workforce

OPM Director Honors Federal Employees for Their Dedication to Creating a Better World

Director James Praises GEICO for Web Posting of Emergency Guides for Federal Employees and Their Families Washington, D.C. – During a ceremony sponsored by GEICO honoring four federal employees and one federal retiree for their work on behalf of the American people, U.S. Office of Personnel Management Director Kay Coles James lauded their accomplishments and encouraged others to do the same.

In her keynote address, James stated that “considering how many fantastic government workers I know, our awardees tonight are obviously very exceptional people. I am proud to be here with all of you tonight. You serve as an example of the dedication and commitment America anticipates from its government in these days of unknown tomorrows.”

The individuals presented with the annual Government Employees Public Service Award have demonstrated the value of public service and the positive role one person can play in the lives of many. The specific areas in which they have excelled are in the creation of programs that deal with the issues of substance abuse, fire prevention, physical rehabilitation and traffic safety.

Recipients of this year’s Government Employees Public Service Award are:  Robin Gullie (Fire Prevention)  Kenneth Copeland (Traffic Safety)  Michael O’Hara (Substance Abuse)  Jerry Stanphill (Physical Rehabilitation)  Dr. John Dal Santo (Substance Abuse)

“The lives which our honorees here tonight have chosen exemplify the core values of the Civil Service, which has a rich history of sacrifice, dedication and service to America,” said James. “From Maui to Maine, government workers are on duty. Not on the front page, not in the evening news, but at their posts, serving our citizens and protecting America.”

Each award winner received a trip to Washington, DC, and a cash award of $2,500.

Director James took time during the awards ceremony to acknowledge GEICO’s civic responsibility. The company recently agreed to include in its monthly magazine, “GEICO Direct,” and to link to its web site (www.geico.com) four Emergency Preparedness Guides OPM has produced that can assist employees and their families during a terrorist attack.

“The safety of all federal employees is one of my top priorities,” said James. “And with invaluable help from GEICO, more people will know of, and have access to, information that can help them make good choices, choices that will protect them and their families during emergencies.”

James’ remarks included a tribute to all who serve America in the military and in the civil service.

“We see the brave Americans in uniform every day on our television, the men and women in our military service. It is my honor to work every day with and for the dedicated Americans in the civil service. We are all fighting in the same battle -- for freedom’s future.

“At the Office of Personnel Management, we protect the sacred trust of veterans’ preference. We will continue to honor that trust when the courageous men and women of our military forces return from Iraq, Afghanistan and the Philippines.”

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OPM oversees the federal work force and provides the American public with up-to-date employment information. OPM also supports U.S. agencies with personnel services and policy leadership including staffing tools, guidance on labor-management relations and programs to improve.