US Navy Chaplain (Lt) David Duprey recently received one of two Admiral Zumwalt Awards for Visionary Leadership — a prestigious recognition of leadership not often recognized in the chaplain corps: 

The award is presented to the [sailor] who best exemplifies the ideals of Admiral Zumwalt and demonstrated dynamic leadership, operational excellence, unselfish dedication to duty, visionary zeal and exemplary care for personnel under his or her direction.

The criteria for the award requires that a leader be nominated by a junior or peer. LtJG Bryan Gill nominated Chaplain Duprey:

Lt. Duprey is the most dynamic and passionate officer in our command. No leader has more impact on our Sailors, as individuals, than Dave does,” said Gill. “Words like force-multiplier, synergy, passion, sacrificial leadership, humble and inspiring truly define his character. Admiral Zumwalt would yearn for a chaplain like Dave Duprey.”

Chaplains are an integral part of the US military, and, yes, their excellence and professionalism leads to even “non-chaplain” awards — including the Medal of Honor.

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