NAMEPA’s Co-Founder and Executive Director, Carleen Lyden-Kluss was presented with the USCG’s Public Service Commendation Award. The Award was presented by Ben Strong and Vice Admiral Charles Michel of the USCG on May 22, 2014 at the National Press Club in Washington, DC.
The AMVER Awards Dinner recognized over 150 companies for their participation in the United States Coast Guard’s Automated Mutual-Assistance Vessel Rescue (AMVER) system. AMVER is a USCG managed search and rescue program in which merchant ships make themselves available for maritime emergency response on a volunteer basis.
The Coast Guard Public Service Commendation is intended primarily to recognize personal and beneficial contributions to the Coast Guard’s responsibilities. The Public Service Awards recognize private citizens, groups or organizations for helping the Coast Guard carry out its missions.
At the close of the evening, Ms. Lyden-Kluss was recognized for her exceptional contributions to the USCG and their AMVER program. Ben Strong of the USCG pointed out Ms. Lyden-Kluss,’ “profound commitment to the safety of life at sea.” said Mr. Strong, on behalf of the Commandant of the USCG, “Ms. Lyden-Kluss has provided countless hours to restore the AMVER Awards program in the United States and there by ensures well deserved recognition of the many voluntary participants in this international lifesaving initiative.” Beginning in May 2009, through North American Marine Environment Protection Association and its dedicated sponsors, Carleen Lyden-Kluss has brought recognition to more than 800 ships managed or operated in the United States.
“With Ms. Lyden-Kluss’ boundless enthusiasm and untiring commitment, she helped publicize the importance of this life saving program relied upon by the maritime community and search and rescue authorities throughout the world. Her dedication and devotion in supporting the AMVER program are most hardily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the public service,” Mr. Strong said.