JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – VyStar Credit Union was recently named Credit Union of the Year by the Department of Navy for its contributions to military-related activities and awards programs such as the NAS Jacksonville Air Show, annual military appreciation luncheons, high school Navy ROTC programs and the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots. The recognition came at the Defense Credit Union Council's recent annual meeting in San Diego. "Through the years, we have expanded our field of membership to bring the benefits of credit union service to more individuals; however, serving military and civil service personnel and their families remains a core focus," said Terry West, Vystar president/CEO. Each year, the Navy recognizes on-base financial institutions that provide exceptional service to military and civilian personnel. VyStar received accolades for providing low-cost and no-cost financial services and support to active-duty military, federal civil servants and their families and for making access to VyStar accounts, cash and other services convenient through the Naval Air Station Jacksonville branch and for installing the greatest number of ATMs on any military base. "It is a great honor and privilege to be acknowledged for outstanding service and performance," said Terry R. West, President/CEO of VyStar Credit Union. "We were founded in 1952 to serve civil service and military personnel and their families, and while our field of membership has expanded over the years, our focus on the military and their families has not changed. It is a privilege to serve those who serve our country. We want to be the credit union that fits everyone's lifestyle, whether military or civilian, and we are dedicated to giving the best in every way we can." VyStar was also awarded for outstanding customer service at its Fernandina Beach branch. The branch was named "Best of the Best" in the Fernandina Beach News Leader's 2003 Readers' Choice Awards. VyStar, formerly Jax Navy Federal Credit Union, is the 13th largest in the nation, with 300,000 members and more than $2.6 billion in assets. [email protected]