The week of May 4–10 is designated as Public Service Recognition Week. It is a time set aside to reflect on the many and continuing contributions of civil servants at every level of government—including the federal workforce—to the well-being of our nation.
As Vice President of Chapter 168 of the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), I have the honor of representing employees who work locally in Vicksburg, Gulfport, and Pascagoula for U.S. Customs and Border Protection. NTEU is the largest independent federal union, representing 150,000 federal employees in 31 agencies and departments.
More than 85 percent of federal workers live outside of Washington, D.C. In our community and across the country, NTEU members and other federal employees perform such services as helping protect our border; ensuring the quality of our air and water; making sure our food, medicines and medical devices are safe and effective; and much more.
Everyone I represent and know in the federal workforce considers public service more than just a job. To each of them, the opportunity it presents to help improve the lives of others truly makes it a calling. I encourage you to learn more about how federal employees contribute to our country and our state at www.TheyWorkforUS.org.

John M. Turner Jr
Mobile, Alabama
Vice President of Chapter 168
National Treasury Employees Union