Three Defense Credit Unions have been recognized with Distinguished Service Awards by their respective branches of the armed services and the Defense Credit Union Council. The awards were presented during DCUC's annual conference.
The winners were Global CU, Spokane, Wash., which won the 2004 Army Distinguished CU Service Award. Among the efforts of GCU that were recognized was its Rent Allotment Program, a service in which rent payments are automatically deducted from the members' account each month-a huge convenience for both the tenant and landlord.
Pen Air FCU in Pensacola, Fla., was selected as Navy/Marine CU of the Year, in part, due to its quick response to Hurricane Ivan in September 2004. While Pen Air sustained substantial damage to its branches, they deployed their Mobile Service Center to assist military personnel with immediate cash needs and financing; and they were able to open some branches and operate ATMs through the use of their backup generators. Due to the lack of power and postal service Pen Air refunded foreign ATM fees and late loan payment fees.
Meanwhile, Liberty FCU, based in Great Falls, Montana, which supports Malmstrom AFB, has been named the 2004 Air Force CU of the Year. LFCU was recognized for numerous efforts, including ongoing financial education and community support.
