USS CHANCELLORSVILLE, At Sea - Sailors from USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) dug deep in December to make a difference in this year’s Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) fund drive to support their favorite local, national and international charities.

More than $35,000 was raised, making this the ship’s most successful CFC effort in recent memory.

Command Master Chief (SS) Joseph D. Steadley remarked on the crew’s selflessness.

“The crew of USS Chancellorsville continues to amaze me. The Job they do is very difficult and requires dedication, professionalism and self-sacrifice, and yet they always seem to rise to the occasion to help those who need it most," he said. "From [community service] projects to the overwhelming support during the CFC campaign, my hat goes off to them.”

Within two weeks’ time, all 360 Sailors aboard were personally contacted and given the opportunity to donate to any of 1,300 charities affecting millions around the globe. Sailors were able to donate either by monthly deductions from their paychecks or by a one-time donation.

In addition to the individual contributions from Chancellorsville’s Sailors, the crew raised nearly $3,000 through fundraising activities.

Chancellorsville’s total contributions this year earned her a Bronze Award from CFC for achieving an average gift of almost $90 per potential contributor and more than 40 percent unit participation.

The ship’s CFC coordinator, Information Systems Technician 1st Class (SW/AW) Maximiliano Pino III, highlighted with pleasure the crew’s charity.

"The true volunteer spirit in our Sailors has shown once again in their actions. I am proud of my shipmates’ 100 percent support for our annual Combined Federal Campaign, and I am thankful we had the opportunity to contribute to so many worthy causes," he said.

Chancellorsville is assigned to Carrier Strike Group 5 and operates out of Yokosuka, Japan.