Nov. 8, 2002 In a Friday morning ceremony in HOVENSA's auditorium, Desmond Duval was given the company's President's Award for manufacturing excellence. Duval, a HOVENSA operator A, was commended for his 35 years of perfect attendance and distinguished service to the facility.
Duval was hired by Hess Oil Virgin Islands Corp. in October of 1967. He continued working for the refinery when it became HOVENSA in 1998.
Duval was accompanied to the ceremony by his wife, Hilaria, whom he credited for assisting him in making his achievement possible. A number of his co-workers also attended the ceremony.
Rene Sagebien, HOVENSA president and chief operating officer, presented Duval with a certificate and cash award. Sagebien said Duval was a role model, not only for other HOVENSA employees but also for refinery workers throughout the nation.
Duval's achievements will motivate his co-workers to excel, Sagebien said, noting that Duval did not just come to work every day for 35 years but was productive and dedicated.
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