Milford Residents Recognized for 'Outstanding' Work Performance

Photo (left to right): Chief of Military Records Michael Perna, Jr., Geraldine Kingkade, Rep. John V. Fernandes (D-Milford). (Credit: Office of John D. Fernandes).

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Military Records Branch, based in Milford, has been recognized for its employees’ “outstanding efforts,” State Rep. John D. Fernandes (D-Milford) said in a news release Tuesday.

Specifically, the branch’s employees were commended at the 30th annual Performance Recognition Program awards ceremony on July 18 at the Massachusetts State House. The local employees were recognized for updating 47,000 veteran’s records into a database, which “enabled many to apply for the first time to the state’s Vietnam-era bonus program,” according to the announcement.

Fernandes presented a citation in honor of the efforts of the employees at the meeting to Milford residents Geraldine Kingkade and Karen Villani, who also received citations from Gov. Deval Patrick.

“I commend the tireless professionalism of Geraldine Kingkade, Karen Villani and everyone affiliated with the Military Records Branch who rapidly and successfully connect thousands of people with their service-related documents in order that they can receive services, incentives and benefits directly related to their honorable military service for our nation,” Fernandes said in a statement.

Said Michael Perna, Jr., who serves as the Chief of Military Records, “We are very proud of the service we provide to the veterans of Massachusetts. We strive to provide our veterans with their records in the most timely way possible. We have the most comprehensive set of veteran’s records of any state in the nation, dating as far back as 1940. My staff deserves a great deal of credit for their dedication, timely responses and caring attitude towards our veterans.”

The following five awards are given annually through the PRP:

The Manuel Carballo Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Service
Given to 10 individuals or groups of employees who demonstrate outstanding leadership, innovation and creativity.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Workforce Mentoring Award
Given to employees who demonstrate leadership in the area of mentoring in the workplace.

The Eugene H. Rooney, Jr. Public Service Award
Given to employees who have made a meaningful contribution in the area of human resource development and training.

The Commonwealth Equity in Governance Award
Given to employees who demonstrate commitment to and attainment of the principles of equity in one or more areas of government operations.

The Commonwealth Citation for Outstanding Performance
Given to employees who are honored for their demonstrated exemplary work performance.

In total, 317 state employees were honored a Commonwealth Citation for Outstanding Performance this year, according to Tuesday’s announcement.