The National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Undersea Warfare Division has announced the recipients of the 2017 Vice Adm. Charles E. Weakley award, presented at the annual Joint Undersea Warfare Technology Spring Conference held at Naval Base Point Loma, California, April 25.

Mr. Donald Hoffer, Commander, Submarine Forces' Executive Director, and
Mr. Donald McCormack, Naval Surface Warfare Center and Naval Undersea Warfare Center's Executive Director received this year's award. The Vice Adm. Weakley award is given in recognition for meritorious service and noteworthy contributions to effective government and industry communication, in the field of undersea warfare.

"I'm thankful to be recognized by NDIA," said Hoffer. "I have always been impressed by the commitment of industry to our Sailors and their desire to always deliver the best possible undersea warfare systems."

As the Executive Director of the Submarine Force, Mr. Hoffer is the principal advisor to the Submarine Force Commander on all matters relating to undersea warfare programs and requirements. Prior to this posting, he led submarine new construction and undersea warfare acquisitions at the Naval Sea Systems Command. During his career he has contributed to development projects and programs responsible for implementing undersea technologies and systems through Navy and industry collaboration.

"Good communication is a key attribute of excellent program execution and I encourage it between the government and industry," said Hoffer.
Mr. Hoffer shared his philosophy and approach on building a team with teams and the importance of aligning efforts across organizations.

"As we move forward, more teaming between the Systems Commands, industry, academia and the fleet is important to rapidly implement emerging technologies and the future undersea capabilities that our forces require," said Hoffer.

For this unwavering motivation Hoffer is being recognized with this award, commending his efforts of encouraging collaboration across the undersea warfare community.

For more information on the submarine force visit the Submarine Force web site at: http://www.public.navy.mil/subfor/hq/Pages/default.aspx.

For more news from Commander, Submarine Forces, visit www.navy.mil/.