Fleet Readiness Center East Executive Director James Ogburn, center, received the Navy's Meritorious Civilian Service Award during a ceremony Tuesday, October 6 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. Rear Adm. Trent DeMoss, Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers, and FRCE Commanding Officer Capt. Mark E. Nieto presented the award, the third-highest honor for a Navy civilian.

While serving as executive director at FRCE, Mr. Ogburn's leadership contributed to noteworthy improvements in safety, quality, production throughput and cost. In fiscal year 2020, despite COVID-19 pandemic challenges, FRCE achieved a record financial year in revenue goals. Mr. Ogburn helped shepherd FRCE through implementation of the Naval Sustainment System initiative and transformation from a competency-aligned organization to a mission-aligned organization, and positioned the facility for the future. His professionalism and dedication have earned Mr. Ogburn respect throughout the Naval Aviation Enterprise, and uphold the highest traditions of the United States Navy.