Navy League Bestows John Paul Jones Award to Former Greeneville Officer

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Since 06-16-05

Excerpted from NSL UPDATE 06-16-2005

By Chief Journalist (SW/AW) David Rush, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (NNS) -- The Navy League presented Lt. Cmdr. Mark Pyle the John Paul Jones Award June 3 for outstanding leadership while serving as executive officer (XO) from May 2003 to December 2004 here aboard USS Greeneville (SSN 772).

According to the Lexington, Md., native, who received the award at the Navy League’s annual convention in Norfolk, Va., his crew deserves the credit. “Receiving this award is a humbling experience, because I know that behind every successful leader are capable and loyal, hard-working Sailors," Pyle said. "I owe a lot to the Sailors on Greeneville and was honored to have stewardship of these men during my tour."

As a submarine officer, Pyle emphasized how important it is to be a focused leader. “Serving in submarines is arguably the most demanding and challenging work environment on the planet," he said. "Under these arduous conditions unique to submarines, effective leadership is crucial to motivating Sailors to meet the high standards of performance that the nation demands of its submarine force.”

Pyle said that dialogue among the crew is the key to success. “Open communication with the crew on a frequent and recurring basis is critical for the success of any organization," he said. "Embracing this routine ensures unity of effort throughout the command and ultimately makes the organization function more efficiently.”

Cmdr. Lee Hankins, former Greeneville commanding officer, received the Vice Adm. James Stockdale Leadership Award Dec. 15. He said Pyle was selected for the John Paul Jones award for his outstanding leadership ability.

“Pyle's dogged determination, clear vision and excellent organizational skills served as the model for everyone on board our ship," Hankins said. "He never ran out of energy, whether it was in tough tactical situations or trying to help out a crew member with a personal issue. Most importantly, he was a great XO and allowed me the time and opportunity to train our officers and prepare our ship.”

Hankins added that Pyle’s leadership ability was an inspiration to the crew. “Never give up, and keep the standards high. It was these virtues, as well as working hard and taking care of the ship, that made him the best XO with whom I have served," he added. "We are incredibly proud of him and his family and all the contributions he made to improving our ship."

Pyle is currently serving as a military assistant to the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) in the Pentagon.

According to the Navy League, the John Paul Jones Award for Inspirational Leadership is awarded to a Navy officer who has made an outstanding contribution to the high standards of leadership in the naval service.

C. Michael Garverick
Captain, U. S. Navy (Retired)
Executive Director
Naval Submarine League  www.navalsubleague.com
(703) 256-0891(V) - (703) 642-5815 (FAX)