Navy Federal Credit Union said its Groton, Conn., branch servingSUBASE New London has been selected for the 2011 DistinguishedService Credit Union Award by the Department of the Navy.

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

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

The 4 million member credit union said 44 out of its 75 on-basebranches also received distinguished service nominations; 40 forNavy and Marine Corps installations, three for the Army and one foran 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 asguaranteeing direct deposit of their paychecks in the face of alooming government shutdown last year.

“Members and non-members in the Groton area have endured tryingtimes,” said Steve Romano, vice president, branch operations. “As acredit union founded in service for the military and theirfamilies, it's our duty to be there for them when they need itmost.”

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