Story by Matthew Stinson, NAVFAC Washington
Builder 2nd Class (SCW/EXW) Lawrence S. Culala, has completed his tour of duty at Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Washington, earning the Navy Achievement Medal (gold star in lieu of second award) for professional achievement in the superior performance of his duties from March 2018 to May 2021.
Culala demonstrated superb expertise and technical acumen leading eight Seabees to complete construction projects across Naval District Washington. Under his skilled leadership, the crew improved infrastructure and quality of life for supported tenant commands while delivering $121k in high-quality construction.
I enjoyed working at Public Works Department (PWD) Washington because all of us Seabees here have an excellent comradery, Culala said. I learned and taught here. It was a good experience for me and hopefully for the sailors I helped.
As Funeral Honors Coordinator, Culala trained 12 sailors in ceremonial etiquette to conduct over 35 funerals honoring our Nations fallen heroes.
I am most proud of being the Funeral Coordinator at PWD Washington and helping our veterans have their military honors.
Culala hails from Dededo, Guam. He joined the United States Navy in order to learn and benefit from everything a military life provides. He reenlisted in August 2020.
I wanted to make this a career and keep going until my retirement. I like being in the military. It has taught me a lot about myself and made me stronger as a leader, all while meeting awesome people along the way.
Culalas exceptional professionalism, unrelenting perseverance and loyal devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He will continue his service abroad in Greece.
I want to say thank you to all of PWD Washington and NAVFAC for the help and support they gave me. To my parents and my brother in Guam, I hope everything is good down there and hope to see you guys soon.