AUGUST 10, 2024 – Peter I. Belk, performing the duties of assistant secretary of defense for readiness, presented the Chief of Naval Operations Expeditionary Safety Award to SEAL Team FOUR during a visit to the area, Aug. 2, 2024.
This prestigious accolade recognizes the team’s outstanding achievement in readiness and economy of operations through unwavering commitment to warfighter safety.
“The personnel of SEAL Team FOUR have demonstrated superlative performance from the individual operator up through the command staff,” said Belk. “Your dedication to safety is indicative of our core values and exemplifies the highest traditions of our service, and your emphasis on effective risk management and good decision-making has created a model for other commands to emulate.”
The official citation was read during a small ceremony and highlighted leadership commitment to fostering a positive safety culture and the exemplary efforts of all SEALs in Team FOUR in addition to warfighter safety.
“Our commitment to warfighting readiness is unwavering and safety is a key aspect of building and maintaining our ability to fight,” said Navy Cmdr. Bryan Jennings, Team FOUR’s commanding officer. “Developing realistic safety programs ensures our warfighters get to and remain in the fight.”
The team’s rigorous training programs prioritize safety at every step. From live-fire exercises to combat simulations, safety protocols ensure that SEALs develop critical skills while minimizing risks.
During joint exercises with allied forces, the team maintains safety as a top priority. In addition, effective communication, coordination and adherence to safety guidelines enhance mission success.
Belk added, “I am truly impressed by your accomplishments and proud to have leaders like you in our Department of Defense workforce.”
Since 2020, three other SEAL teams have recently earned the CNO Expeditionary Safety Award: SEAL Team TWO in 2022, SEAL Team THREE in 2021 and SEAL Team FIVE in 2020.
By Lt.j.g. Martin Carey
Naval Special Warfare Group 2