NSWC Dahlgren Division Secretary of Defense Global War on Terrorism medal recipients standing from left to right in the photo are: Dennis Lilly, Dr. David Stoudt, (Capt. Sheila Patterson), Keith Ofsowitz, Ward Weberg, Patrick Cady, Emanuel Galarza, J. Sue Hyatt-Tracy, David Stewart, Michael Hatfield, Michael Richardson, Gregory Martin, Dr. Walter Sessions, Leslie Thaxton, Cristopher Lake, Stephan Brown. GWOT medal recipients not present: Timothy Spivak and Michael Smith.

The Secretary of Defense GWOT Medal was presented to the awardees - all NSWCDD employees - to recognize and honor their contributions and accomplishments in direct support of members of the armed forces engaged in operations to combat terrorism. This medal is the civilian equivalent of the GWOT Expeditionary Medal awarded to our military members. The award of this medal acknowledges the essential service of the Department's civilian workforce supporting and maintaining the security of our nation.

“It is a particular honor to recognize our NSWC Dahlgren recipients of the Secretary of Defense Medal for Global War on Terrorism,“ said Patterson in a letter published in the ceremony's brochure. “These dedicated members of our workforce directly supported our warfighters in theater. In several cases, they have deployed to dangerous locations where they joined troops to field weapons, solved security challenges, and performed troubleshooting in real time scenarios, and for this we are deeply grateful for their selfless dedication.“

The NSWCDD employees who were awarded the Secretary of Defense GWOT medal are: Dennis Lilly, Dr. David Stoudt, Keith Ofsowitz, Ward Weberg, Patrick Cady, Emanuel Galarza, J. Sue Hyatt-Tracy, David Stewart, Michael Hatfield, Michael Richardson, Gregory Martin, Dr. Walter Sessions, Leslie Thaxton, Cristopher Lake, Stephan Brown, Timothy L. Spivak, and Michael P. Smith.

In the letter, Capt. Patterson continued:

“Many times the jobs we ask our people to do seem impossible and the situations are demanding. From the long hours devoted to design and implementation, to deployment into harm's way, the men and women of our Dahlgren workforce continue to meet each challenge - possible not only because of their expertise, but also due to their unfailing dedication.

Our award recipients are an inspiration and example for all. Their work makes a difference on a daily basis to the men and women who wear the uniform of the United States military.

The people we honor today exemplify a workforce that is the very best. Also, the role of their families in their success cannot be understated. Their patience and understanding of the long hours and extended travel are greatly appreciated.“