SECNAV Honored with Prestigious Lifetime Champion Award by Blue Star Families

Secretary Carlos Del Toro was honored with the Lifetime Military Family Champion Award at the Blue Star Celebration, an annual event in Washington D.C.’s Union Station. The celebration recognizes individuals who bolster the strength of the all-volunteer force by supporting military families.

In his acceptance speech, Secretary Del Toro expressed his gratitude to Blue Star Families for their unwavering support of military families. He appreciated their efforts in sharing stories that resonate with Americans nationwide.

Secretary Del Toro spoke about the sacrifices his own parents made, uprooting their lives from Cuba to provide better opportunities in the United States. He reflected on the parallels between his family’s journey and the experiences of military families.

Emphasizing the importance of service, Del Toro underscored its role in shaping the fabric of America. He articulated that service in the Navy and Marine Corps transcends individual ambitions, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and calling.

Del Toro acknowledged the challenges faced by military families, who support service members throughout their careers amid frequent relocations and long separations. He praised their resilience, declaring them the true heroes for the sacrifices they make.

Founded in 2009, Blue Star Families aims to empower military families by connecting them with civilian communities and organizations, fostering strong networks of support and helping them thrive amidst the challenges of military life.