BEAUFORT — Kevin Bickel, Air Station bulk fuel civilian crew leader, received the Marine Corps Civilian of the Year Award and the American Petroleum Institute Award for Excellence in Fuels Management on July 10.

Col. Brian Murtha, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort commanding officer, and Navy Captain Willie Robohn, director, U.S. Naval Supply Systems Command Energy Office aboard the Air Station, presented Bickel with his awards.

According to Staff Sgt. Gilberto Warren, fuels staff noncommissioned officer-in-charge, the well deserving Bickel was selected above his peers from all Marine Corps Installations East bases to be recognized by the American Petroleum Institute.

“[Bickel’s] skill supports the Marine aircraft group and is involved in every facet of improvement we are conducting and planning in the near future,” said Chief Warrant Officer Kevin Pierre, the Air Station’s fuels officer. “If we ever lose him it would do the Air Station a vast disservice.”

The API, is an internationally-recognized petroleum trade organization that highlights activities and personnel of all four branches of military service and civilian companies, who have made the significant contributions bulk fuel operations, petroleum chain management and fuel support.

“There is no greater pleasure than having the opportunity to recognize units and personnel for their outstanding performance and contributions to the Marine Corps mission,” Pierre said.