During a visit to the area on August 2, 2024, Peter I. Belk, assistant secretary of defense for readiness, presented the Chief of Naval Operations Expeditionary Safety Award to SEAL Team FOUR. This prestigious award was given in recognition of the team’s outstanding achievement in readiness and economy of operations, as well as their unwavering commitment to warfighter safety. Belk commended the team for their dedication to safety, stating that their performance from individual operators to command staff exemplifies the highest traditions of service.
The official citation for the award was read during a small ceremony, highlighting the leadership commitment to fostering a positive safety culture within SEAL Team FOUR. Navy Cmdr. Bryan Jennings, the team’s commanding officer, emphasized the importance of safety in building and maintaining warfighting readiness. The team’s rigorous training programs prioritize safety at every step, ensuring that SEALs develop critical skills while minimizing risks. During joint exercises with allied forces, safety remains a top priority, with effective communication, coordination, and adherence to safety guidelines enhancing mission success.
Belk expressed his admiration for the accomplishments of SEAL Team FOUR and stated that he was proud to have leaders like them in the Department of Defense workforce. The award recognizes the team’s commitment to safety and their efforts to create a model for other commands to emulate. This focus on effective risk management and decision-making sets a standard for excellence in safety and readiness. The CNO Expeditionary Safety Award has also been recently earned by three other SEAL teams, including SEAL Team TWO in 2022, SEAL Team THREE in 2021, and SEAL Team FIVE in 2020.
Overall, SEAL Team FOUR’s dedication to safety and their emphasis on effective risk management have earned them the Chief of Naval Operations Expeditionary Safety Award. Through their commitment to safety and readiness, the team has set a standard for excellence in warfighter safety and operations. Their rigorous training programs and focus on safety protocols ensure that SEALs develop critical skills while minimizing risks, making safety a top priority in all their missions and exercises. Belk commended the team for their achievements and expressed pride in having leaders like them in the Department of Defense workforce.
