Program Executive Office, Air Anti-submarine Warfare, Assault, and Special Mission Programs (PEO(A)) welcomed its new program executive officer, Brig. Gen. David Walsh, in a change of command ceremony on June 27. Gary Kurtz, the outgoing PEO(A) executive officer, retired from government service after 40 years with Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and Naval Air Warfare Center, Aircraft Division (NAWCAD).

The change of command ceremony was presided over by Vice Adm. Francis Morley, Principal Military Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition. In his remarks Morley stated, “To put it simply, the Navy and Marine Corps doesn't work without the products [that PEO(A) owns] and the work that this family does each and every day. Thank you very much for [the work done] under Gary's leadership and vision.”

Kurtz served as the Program Executive Officer (PEO) for PEO(A) from 2022-2024, overseeing 10 program management offices and the acquisition and total life cycle support for a diverse range of products and aircraft. His professional awards include the Navy Certificate of Acquisition Excellence in 1998, Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Awards in 2000 and 2004, and the Coast Guard Civilian Commendation Medal in 2019.

“Over my 40 years of government service, I have been honored to work with the best and brightest. These last few years in my role as PEO(A) have been nothing short of that same level of professionalism and excellence. I can say with confidence that I can vouch and know why this portfolio is called ‘The A Team’,” said Kurtz.

Kurtz led the PEO(A) teams to numerous program awards to include six NAVAIR Commanders Awards for Acquisition and Business Excellence in 2023.

“This PEO is a very dynamic, challenging and rewarding one. We have been in a full sprint – literally and figuratively – with one challenge after another. But, despite the challenges, we have come out stronger and more aligned to better assist our warfighters here and around the world when it matters most,” said Kurtz.

Kurtz turned over the program executive office to Walsh in a traditional Marine Corps ceremony surrounded by family, friends, colleagues, executives, and industry partners.

“We have a generous portfolio in PEO(A): naval rotorcraft, fixed wing aircraft, sonobuoys, and advanced maritime technologies. No matter the type of aircraft, capability, or mission requirements, this ‘A Team’ has always led the way. It’s been a true honor to work alongside so many amazing professionals and to have learned from them, as well,” said Kurtz. “As I take my last steps across this platform as PEO(A) and step away from all the amazing people, I know I am handing this PEO over to an outstanding leader with a wealth of experience best suited for the future.”

Before the PEO was officially transferred, Morley added, “Gary, [you have had] an incredible career and amazing career, and I'm excited to see you go out on such a high note. You're one of the few people in or out of uniform that's been entrusted with the command of multiple PEOs.  It's a testament to your professionalism, dedication and devotion, to the Navy, Marine Corps and all their missions.”

Walsh was commissioned into the Marine Corps in August 1992 after graduating from the University of Virginia. He reported to Naval Air Station Pensacola for flight training and was designated a naval aviator in February 1995. He has accumulated over 2,500 flight hours in more than 30 types of aircraft.

Walsh is returning to NAVAIR after spending the last two years as commander of Marine Corps Systems Command. Prior to that command, he was the acting PEO for Land Systems in 2022 and Military Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition in 2021. Prior to that, he served as the program manager for NAVAIR’s Marine Light / Attack Helicopter Program Office (PMA-276).

“The challenge I have coming in is to build upon the success [left by Gary] in PEO(A),” said Walsh. “You guys have done a lot of great work over the years and we have a great team.”

Walsh thanked his family and mentors who helped him throughout his career. He stressed the importance of people and delivering the capabilities to the warfighter in this current, challenging environment. Walsh called upon his newly acquired team to respond to the challenges with disciplined program execution, strengthening partnerships and focusing on people.

“Never in our lifetime has there been such a sense of urgency to make sure our Marines and Sailors get the gear that they need. I challenge us to be bold, think critically, be aggressive, do what we need to do to make sure our warfighters get what they need every day. We owe it to them,” said Walsh.

PEO(A) provides fleet capability and capacity, supporting development and sustainment of Navy and Marine Corps helicopters, special mission aircraft and aviation anti-submarine warfare equipment and aircraft.  PEO(A) comprises 10 major program offices.