The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Nashville district presented today its Commander's Award For Public Service to Christopher S. Howley, a stormwater engineer for the City of Knoxville, for demonstrating superior teamwork and providing exceptional service to the community.

"Mr. Howley has demonstrated a thorough knowledge of the flood damage reduction and emergency streambank protection needs of the Knoxville area, and has quickly achieved a thorough understanding of the principals and practices of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to work with the Nashville District and to champion the interests of the citizens of Knoxville," said Lt. Col. Steven Roehmhildt, Nashville district commander, during the presentation of the citation today at the City County Building.

"In particular, his efforts on the First Creek Flood Control Study and Lakeshore Park Emergency Streambank Protection Study have set a high standard for team work among county, state, private, and federal interests," Roehmhildt stated.

Mayor Bill Haslam, who also attended the presentation today, said, "This award is a testament to Chris' expertise and the service he gives to the citizens of Knoxville. I am proud that Chris is a member of our team, and congratulate him on this achievement."

Howley, 32, joined the City of Knoxville in 1997.