NAPLES, Italy (USTCNS) --- Military Sealift Command Europe's Petty Officer 1st Class Calixto "Alex" Estella was recently named Military Sealift Command Shore Sailor of the Year for 2000.

Estella, who works in MSCEURs logistics department, is also competing as one of five finalists for the Navy-wide Chief of Naval Operations Shore Sailor of the Year for 2000.

"Estella is currently in Washington, D.C., where he is competing for the top spot," said MSCEUR Command Chief, Chief Petty Officer Earl Gray. "We're all very excited as this is the first time a sailor from MSC has made it to the CNO Sailor of the Year competition. Should he win, Estella will automatically advance to Chief Petty Officer."

Estella has won MSCEURs sailor of the year competition for two years running.

"His [Estella] teamwork, strong work ethic and initiative has enabled MSCEUR to accomplish its mission and care for its personnel," said MSCEUR commander Capt. Rob Collins.

As the leading petty officer for MSCEUR, Estella is responsible for directing 13 enlisted staff in various command functions.

Estella was noted for his accomplishments as ordering officer, where he displayed superior customer service by processing and expediting the delivery of all fuel bunker requisitions in support of MSCEUR ships operating in the U.S. Naval Forces, Europe area of responsibility.

He also acquired over $30,000 of commercial supplies which included integrating all purchases into MSCs new automated financial management system.

Estella, who enlisted in the Navy in 1983, was recognized in particular for his volunteer work, both inside and outside the command. Collins, who described Estella as "a true team player," served as both command health promotion coordinator, initiated a smoking cessation program. He also served as command career counselor, assisting military personnel with all Navy career enhancement programs.

Estella was a key player in the MSCEUR-sponsored USO "Gala" held aboard USS Wasp last June in Naples. This major fund-raiser for the USO in Naples included more than 600 people in a night of entertainment aboard the ship.

Estella purchased all event supplies, designated and coordinated the manufacture of all USO Gala plaques, coordinated transportation, and a variety of logistical requirements.

An aspiring artist, Estella painted two landscape pictures of the city of Naples, which served as gifts for top corporate sponsors of the USO.

Estella also volunteered as command representative for the local partnership in education program, which benefits the local Naples school system, and participated in the local 2000 "Asian Pacific Heritage Month," and "Earth Day" activities.

Estella, a native of the Philippines, has served with MSCEUR since Feb. 1999. His personal awards include the Navy Commendation Medal, the Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3 gold stars), Navy League Recognition award, and various unit and private organization awards. Estella has now won sailor of the year competitions three times in his career. (FROM MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND - EUROPE PUBLIC AFFAIRS).