Washington, DC - The National Veteran Small Business Coalition (NVSBC) recognized the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) for its proficiency in awarding contracts to veteran-owned small businesses, today.

"It is our pleasure to recognize NAVFAC for your accomplishments in using veteran and service-disabled, veteran-owned small businesses in your procurement program in fiscal year 2015," said NVSBC Executive Director Scott Denniston, in a letter to the command.

NVSBC is a nationwide, not for profit, trade association promoting the use of veteran-owned and service-disabled, veteran-owned small businesses in federal contracting as prime and subcontractors.

Last year, NAVFAC awarded 8.4 percent of contract awards to veteran-owned small businesses and 6.2 percent to service disabled, veteran-owned small businesses -- which exceeds the congressionally mandated goal of 3 percent.

"We are honored to receive this award," said NAVFAC Commander Rear Adm. Bret Muilenburg. "To be recognized for our efforts in helping veteran-owned businesses is a testament to all the hard work of our Small Business Program."

Last year, awarded contracts totaled more than $538 million in obligations to veteran-owned small businesses, including nearly $400 million to service-disabled, veteran-owned small businesses.

"NAVFAC has a proud history of exceptional success in leveraging the capabilities of our nation's veteran-owned small businesses," said Scott Crosson, Small Business Program associate director. "The command's enterprise-wide efforts clearly demonstrate support for public policy, but more importantly, they exemplify smart business decisions."