NAVAL AIR SYSTEMS COMMAND, PATUXENT RIVER, Md. -- Todd Balazs (right), deputy assistant commander, Naval-Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Logistics and Industrial Operations (AIR 6.0) presented Robert N. Leavitt (center) with the inaugural Daniel L. Nega Excellence in Logistics Leadership award during a ceremony at the Logistics and Industrial Complex (LIC) here, Feb. 2.

Leavitt, product support manager (PSM) for NAVAIR's H-53 Heavy Lift Helicopter Program Office (PMA-261), was honored for his leadership, mentoring and development of personnel and advocacy of hiring wounded warriors and individuals with targeted disabilities.

“Although this award recognizes leadership excellence over the past calendar year, Robert Leavitt has been a key leader for Naval Aviation over the past 40 years,” said Bruce Dinopoulos, assistant program executive officer logistics, Logistics Management Integration (AIR 6.6.1), Program Executive Office for Air Assault and Special Mission Programs (PEO (A)), who nominated Leavitt for the award.

Leavitt was “the first GS-15 logistician in PMA-261 and had to develop a strategic vision,” Dinopoulos continued.  “His vision included documenting product support strategies (Life-Cycle Sustainment Plans), bringing in a diverse workforce (wounded warriors, interns, retired military, etc.), encouraging innovation (Integrated Logistics Management System, Fleet Common Operating Environment) and continuing education, recognizing his people, and achieving fleet and project management activity readiness and cost goals.”

Leavitt began his 29-year career in the Marine Corps as a CH-53 pilot. He transitioned to civilian work and has been at Pax for the past 12 years as a contractor and a civilian. He was honored in October with a Meritorious Civilian Service award.

The Nega award recognizes individuals (civilian or military) for the consistent display over the past calendar year of leadership excellence with the underpinnings of demonstrated commitment to people, to mission and to professionalism. Each year, the name of the recipient will be added to a plaque in Bldg. 449 in the LIC.