This NAVADMIN announces the 2024 recipients of the Vice Admiral
James Bond Stockdale Leadership Award. Commander Justin B. Smith, Commanding
Officer, USS MASON (DDG 87) (U. S. Fleet Forces Command) and Commander Jason
M. Garfield, Commanding Officer, USS STERETT (DDG 104) (U.S. Pacific Fleet)
were selected for their inspirational leadership.
2. This Fleet award was established in honor of VADM James Bond Stockdale,
whose distinguished Naval career symbolized the highest standards of
excellence in both personal and professional leadership. The award is
presented annually to two commissioned officers on Active Duty in the grade
of commander or below who are serving in command of a single ship, submarine,
aviation squadron, Sea, Air, Land (SEAL) team, Naval special warfare
squadron, SEAL delivery vehicle team, special boat team, explosive ordnance
disposal mobile unit, mobile diving and salvage unit, or Navy special
clearance team during the nomination cycle. Candidates are nominated by
peers who themselves must be eligible for the award.
3. The 2024 winners were chosen from among six outstanding finalists in a
review process that included screening at the Fleet commander level and final
selection by a board of senior officers.
4. The following finalists deserve well-earned congratulations:
a. CDR Robert A. Low, Commanding Officer, USS DELAWARE (SSN 791)
b. CDR Tyler C. McQuiggan, former Commanding Officer, Strike Fighter
Squadron ONE THREE ONE (VFA 131)
c. CDR Erik H. Gustafson, former Commanding Officer, Helicopter Sea
Combat Squadron FIVE (HSC 5)
d. CDR Joseph S. Hamilton, Commanding Officer, USS PORTER (DDG 78)
5. CDR Justin Smith and CDR Jason Garfield, as well as all finalists, should
be justifiably proud of their achievements.
6. Awards will be presented at a ceremony on 20 November 2024.
7. This NAVADMIN will be kept for record purposes, and will remain in effect
until canceled or superseded, whichever occurs first.