Doyle's JO Proves Tactical Agility, Skill

On Doyle's flight deck just hours before the ship departed Mayport to begin its deployment, Lt.j.g. Dan Newman received the award for excellence in tactics. Capt. Glenn Zeiders, Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 14 presented Newman with the award.

In its third annual competition for the Tactician of the Year Award, the Surface Warfare Development Group (SWDG) sought out the tactical action officer (TAO) qualified junior officer who signified the best-of-the-best in tactical excellence in the Atlantic Fleet.

Newman, who serves as Doyle's electronics material officer, received a nomination for his innovations and accomplishments in tactics from his commanding officer and was subsequently chosen as the nominee for DESRON 14. In the final stages of the competition against nine other nominees, Newman submitted his point paper and participated in an interview process outlining how to employ in-depth oil platform defense tactics. Newman's was chosen as the top submission, and he received the award from Zeiders on behalf of Rear Adm. K. M. Quinn, Commander, NAVSURFLANT.

"Lt. j. g. Newman's proposal was impressive; from tactical innovations and outstanding watchstanding onboard USS Doyle, to his excellent white paper and brief on how to change oil platform defense tactics," stated Quinn in the award presentation letter. "Lt. j. g. Newman thoroughly demonstrated the traits of a superb tactician and surface warfare officer."

Likewise, Doyle's Commanding Officer Cmdr. John M. Zuzich had great praise for Newman.

"I am so proud of Dan, not only because of this award, but of his ability to thoughtfully address every problem presented," said Zuzich. "When we were designated OPLAT (oil platform) defense commander for the multinational exercise Joint Warrior, Dan developed and refined his in-depth defense tactics. I know his hard work can now help others succeed in this important mission area."

Newman thanked his shipmates for their role in his award.

"I'm honored to have received the award on behalf of the captain and crew of Doyle," said Newman. "Many thanks to my fellow warfighters for their knowledge, expertise and professionalism. "This award shows the rest of the fleet that Doyle is producing top-notch JO's (junior officers) in tactical warfighting and professional development."

Doyle is currently participating in the Southern Seas Deployment to Central and South America as part of Task Group 40.0 with DESRON 40, USS Kauffman and USS Ford.