Navy Federal Credit Union said its Groton, Conn., branch serving SUBASE New London has been selected for the 2011 Distinguished Service Credit Union Award by the Department of the Navy.

The $49 billion Navy Federal said the award, announced this week and based on the 2011 calendar year, is the sixth straight such honor for one of its 222 branches.

“The award is highly prized in the credit union sector, as the installation commander must make the nomination on behalf of the on-base credit union to the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy,” Navy Federal said in a statement.

The 4 million member credit union said 44 out of its 75 on-base branches also received distinguished service nominations; 40 for Navy and Marine Corps installations, three for the Army and one for an Air Force branch.

The credit union said its assistance after Hurricane Irene flooded the Groton area last year was a factor, along with the service it provides all its members, such as guaranteeing direct deposit of their paychecks in the face of a looming government shutdown last year.

“Members and non-members in the Groton area have endured trying times,” said Steve Romano, vice president, branch operations. “As a credit union founded in service for the military and their families, it's our duty to be there for them when they need it most.”

Navy Federal said the award will be presented at the Defense Credit Union Council Conference on Aug. 20 in Denver.