Alaska Chadux̂ Network Receives Nation’s Highest Maritime Environmental Protection Honor
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (June 2, 2026) — Alaska Chadux̂ Network (ACN) has once again been recognized among the nation’s top maritime environmental response organizations, receiving the prestigious Gold/Osprey Award in the Special Small Business category as part of the United States Coast Guard’s 2026 Benkert Awards program.
Presented during the North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) Safety at Sea Seminar and AMVER Awards Program in Washington, D.C., the Gold/Osprey distinction represents the highest level of recognition awarded for excellence in marine environmental protection, operational readiness, and safety leadership.
Even more meaningful, this award continues a legacy of excellence established by ACN’s predecessor organizations, making it the third Osprey recognition within the ACN family of organizations.
Named in honor of Rear Admiral William M. Benkert, the Benkert Awards recognize organizations demonstrating exceptional commitment to protecting the marine environment while advancing safe and responsible maritime operations.
“This recognition reflects the dedication, professionalism, and readiness of the entire Alaska Chadux̂ Network team and our response partners across Alaska,” said Buddy Custard, President & CEO of Alaska Chadux̂ Network. “Protecting Alaska’s coastal waters and communities is at the center of everything we do. The companies we support believe that environmental protection and responsible commerce are not competing interests—they are inseparable responsibilities. They recognize that protecting the marine environment is a fundamental obligation and social responsibility inherent in operating on Alaska’s waters.”
Alaska Chadux̂ Network was recognized alongside other national maritime organizations during National Maritime Week events in Washington, D.C.
As Alaska’s premier oil spill prevention and response cooperative, ACN provides statewide response readiness, training, and environmental protection services supporting vessel operators, industry partners, and coastal communities throughout Alaska.
The organization continues to invest in advanced response capabilities, workforce development, training, and emerging technologies to strengthen maritime safety and environmental stewardship in Alaska and beyond.
For more information, visit www.alaskaosro.org.
About Alaska Chadux̂ Network
The Alaska Chadux̂ Network is Alaska’s premier nonprofit oil spill removal organization. With a mission to protect life, property, and Alaska’s environment, ACN is a U.S. Coast Guard-certified Oil Spill Removal Organization and the State of Alaska’s Primary Response Action Contractor in multiple regions. ACN leads the way in environmental stewardship, technological innovation, and emergency response readiness.
Contact:
Jessica Wright | Vice President / Business Manager
Direct 907.348.2365
Jessica.Wright@AlaskaOSRO.org | www.AlaskaOSRO.org
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