WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:03.266 What a setting for an award ceremony is really 00:00:04.766 --> 00:00:07.066 stunningly impressive. 00:00:08.400 --> 00:00:12.200 To recognize stunningly impressive people. 00:00:20.666 --> 00:00:22.733 Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. 00:00:22.733 --> 00:00:24.966 Welcome to Sunny Opa-Locka, Florida. 00:00:26.133 --> 00:00:28.900 Welcome to the Southeast Regional Secretary's Award Ceremony. 00:00:29.833 --> 00:00:31.133 My name is Captain Sean Cook. 00:00:31.133 --> 00:00:32.700 I will be serving as your emcee today. 00:00:32.700 --> 00:00:35.700 I'd like to take the opportunity to welcome leadership 00:00:35.700 --> 00:00:39.000 from DHS components, including Admiral Brendan McPherson. 00:00:39.000 --> 00:00:40.633 Coast Guard District seven. 00:00:40.633 --> 00:00:42.566 Thank you for being here, sir. 00:00:42.833 --> 00:00:43.833 Also, Mr. 00:00:43.833 --> 00:00:47.800 Tony Avelar, the director of mayor of Miami Air 00:00:47.800 --> 00:00:50.766 and Marine Operations, are critical partner here in the region. 00:00:50.966 --> 00:00:54.300 Thank you for coming up with your team. 00:00:55.700 --> 00:00:55.933 Thanks. 00:00:55.933 --> 00:00:58.933 The United States Coast Guard colleagues, DHS brother 00:00:59.000 --> 00:01:01.366 and most importantly, the awardees who are here today. 00:01:02.433 --> 00:01:04.500 We will honor and celebrate 00:01:06.100 --> 00:01:06.766 for the first time. 00:01:06.766 --> 00:01:09.900 The DHS Secretary's Awards are being presented at regional ceremonies 00:01:09.900 --> 00:01:13.800 across the country as we celebrate a month of recognition, acknowledging 00:01:13.800 --> 00:01:17.133 the exceptional work being done across the department by DHS employees. 00:01:18.766 --> 00:01:22.133 In doing so, we will tell the stories of their accomplishments, contributions, 00:01:22.133 --> 00:01:25.833 and in some cases, heroic acts all in the name of public service. 00:01:26.466 --> 00:01:28.466 We're honored to serve alongside these employees 00:01:28.466 --> 00:01:30.733 and to have this special time to recognize their work 00:01:32.000 --> 00:01:32.800 at this time. 00:01:32.800 --> 00:01:35.833 Please stand and join me in welcoming the Secretary of Homeland Security, 00:01:36.433 --> 00:01:38.900 the honorable service. 00:01:38.900 --> 00:01:41.433 Thank you very much, and thank you. 00:01:51.933 --> 00:01:57.266 Sir. Today, we recognize the individuals and teams who have made outstanding 00:01:57.266 --> 00:02:00.000 contributions to the Department of Homeland Security and to our nation. 00:02:00.533 --> 00:02:04.733 During the ceremony, I will share a brief description of the recipients honors. 00:02:04.766 --> 00:02:08.533 Before I ask the awardees a front to join the secretary to be presented 00:02:08.533 --> 00:02:09.800 with their award. 00:02:09.866 --> 00:02:11.433 After receiving these awards, 00:02:11.433 --> 00:02:14.100 the recipients will have a short conversation with the Secretary 00:02:14.433 --> 00:02:16.533 so that we may learn more about your meritorious work. 00:02:17.633 --> 00:02:19.666 Let's begin, sir, with your permission. 00:02:19.666 --> 00:02:21.500 Thank you so much. Please. 00:02:21.500 --> 00:02:22.333 Please be seated. 00:02:22.333 --> 00:02:25.233 Let me let me share with you what these 00:02:25.233 --> 00:02:29.466 award ceremonies are all about and we're having them out in the field 00:02:29.466 --> 00:02:31.600 because we are recognizing 00:02:31.600 --> 00:02:35.800 this year an unprecedented number of colleagues, close to 900. 00:02:35.833 --> 00:02:41.966 And, of course, we couldn't fly 900 people into Washington, D.C., nor would 00:02:42.333 --> 00:02:45.733 900 people want to be flown into Washington, D.C. 00:02:46.333 --> 00:02:50.600 But this is all about standing and applauding, all of you 00:02:51.266 --> 00:02:55.000 and the personnel around you 00:02:55.333 --> 00:02:57.800 who make your heroic achievements possible. 00:02:58.166 --> 00:03:02.800 So I very much appreciate you standing and applauding for me, 00:03:02.800 --> 00:03:07.200 but I'm here to stand and applaud all of our recipients 00:03:07.600 --> 00:03:13.100 on behalf of the 250,000 people in this Department of Homeland Security. 00:03:13.733 --> 00:03:16.166 It is a standing principle 00:03:16.766 --> 00:03:19.366 and it's a fact that the accomplishments of one 00:03:19.366 --> 00:03:22.633 are made possible by the contributions of many. 00:03:22.633 --> 00:03:26.266 And so what we are doing is really celebrating the Department 00:03:26.900 --> 00:03:32.066 by celebrating just exceptional service of particular individuals and teams. 00:03:32.066 --> 00:03:36.166 But this is all about a team and the people whom we recognize. 00:03:36.166 --> 00:03:40.200 And today personify that so, so eloquently. 00:03:40.200 --> 00:03:43.800 So I just want to applaud and stand 00:03:43.800 --> 00:03:47.033 in recognition of those whom we honor today. 00:03:47.033 --> 00:03:49.833 So thank you so very much for taking the time today, 00:03:50.900 --> 00:03:53.533 sir. We'll begin with 00:03:53.666 --> 00:03:56.600 Secretary's Meritorious Service Silver Medal Award. 00:03:57.366 --> 00:03:59.900 This award is the second highest award presented by the Secretary 00:03:59.900 --> 00:04:03.333 and recognizes outstanding leadership, superior public service, 00:04:03.333 --> 00:04:07.066 or unusually significant contributions to strengthening homeland security. 00:04:07.766 --> 00:04:10.933 New to the category this year, our 11 and eight employees 00:04:10.933 --> 00:04:14.700 serving in administrative, technical, clerical and general support positions. 00:04:15.366 --> 00:04:18.566 This award may recognize the body of work regarding remarkable 00:04:18.566 --> 00:04:21.666 innovation or notable resourcefulness and discipline and diligence 00:04:21.833 --> 00:04:24.766 that improve the effectiveness of one or more DHS missions. 00:04:28.333 --> 00:04:30.633 The Silver Medal is awarded 00:04:30.633 --> 00:04:34.400 to the COVID 19 Funeral Assistance Task Force, 00:04:34.833 --> 00:04:37.766 overseen by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. 00:04:38.266 --> 00:04:40.800 Last year, federal legislation 00:04:40.800 --> 00:04:44.000 made it possible to provide financial assistance 00:04:44.000 --> 00:04:47.600 to those who have COVID 19 related funeral expenses. 00:04:48.400 --> 00:04:53.166 FEMA's COVID 19 Funeral Assistance Task Force responded efficiently 00:04:53.666 --> 00:04:58.566 and effectively to distribute approximately $1.1 billion 00:04:58.566 --> 00:05:02.866 to those who tragically lost family members to the pandemic. 00:05:03.500 --> 00:05:06.100 Their efforts have helped alleviate a financial burden 00:05:06.800 --> 00:05:10.266 and made a true difference in the lives of those who are grieving 00:05:10.733 --> 00:05:13.766 and suffering during these unprecedented times. 00:05:14.600 --> 00:05:17.200 Please join me in welcoming to the front. 00:05:17.766 --> 00:05:21.033 Arlene Hurst, Castro, Avril, John 00:05:21.766 --> 00:05:26.200 Susan ofIt's Ray McNabb and Maria Lopez 00:05:29.100 --> 00:05:29.900 thank you 00:05:35.000 --> 00:05:35.700 Thank you. 00:05:35.700 --> 00:05:36.466 Congratulations. 00:05:36.466 --> 00:05:37.733 Thank you. 00:05:40.200 --> 00:05:41.233 Congratulations. 00:05:41.233 --> 00:05:42.300 Thank you. 00:05:42.933 --> 00:05:44.366 Thank you very much. 00:05:46.133 --> 00:05:47.133 Thank you. 00:05:52.000 --> 00:05:53.700 Congratulations. 00:05:53.700 --> 00:05:55.700 Please join me again. 00:06:01.633 --> 00:06:05.100 So if I if I may 00:06:06.000 --> 00:06:08.300 how does it make you feel to 00:06:09.900 --> 00:06:11.533 be able to provide assistance 00:06:11.533 --> 00:06:14.933 not just to those individuals in need? 00:06:15.333 --> 00:06:20.066 But those individuals in need of the most fragile time in their lives? 00:06:20.066 --> 00:06:22.200 Because you really 00:06:22.266 --> 00:06:24.166 have exemplified the principle 00:06:24.166 --> 00:06:27.900 of extending an outstretched arm 00:06:27.900 --> 00:06:30.566 to to those in grief. 00:06:31.500 --> 00:06:34.500 How does that really impact you? 00:06:36.133 --> 00:06:40.700 Mr. Secretary, it was a rewarding effort, and it's an ongoing effort 00:06:41.966 --> 00:06:44.500 for all of my colleagues at FEMA. 00:06:44.533 --> 00:06:49.166 This was the first time that we had a declaration 00:06:49.500 --> 00:06:52.833 that spanned 50 states and all the territories. 00:06:53.500 --> 00:06:55.933 And it's especially rewarding 00:06:55.933 --> 00:06:59.300 because we can at least provide 00:06:59.600 --> 00:07:02.866 some sort of help to those that lost loved ones. 00:07:03.133 --> 00:07:07.200 So that in and of itself, may makes this award 00:07:07.900 --> 00:07:11.500 you know, truly, truly we're truly grateful for this award. 00:07:12.266 --> 00:07:15.266 Well, many, many people around this country 00:07:15.266 --> 00:07:19.200 are grateful for what you have done and what you represented. 00:07:19.200 --> 00:07:21.233 So thank you very much for your service. 00:07:21.233 --> 00:07:23.833 Thank you. Thank you. Congratulations. 00:07:32.666 --> 00:07:35.066 Next, we will have the Secretary's Award for innovation. 00:07:35.833 --> 00:07:38.500 The Secretary's Award for Innovation recognizes individuals 00:07:38.500 --> 00:07:41.766 or teams that employ a strategic and enterprise wide approach 00:07:41.966 --> 00:07:45.300 to strengthen the Department of Homeland Security mission and its operations. 00:07:46.200 --> 00:07:49.500 These nominees should exhibit an ongoing record of high standards of achievement 00:07:49.500 --> 00:07:50.700 and innovation. 00:07:50.700 --> 00:07:52.533 The work of the nominees may have resulted 00:07:52.533 --> 00:07:56.300 in superior performance and or significant operational improvements 00:07:56.600 --> 00:07:59.333 in the manner of which capabilities are developed and deployed. 00:08:00.000 --> 00:08:03.300 The nominees achievement or contribution should include maximizing 00:08:03.300 --> 00:08:06.066 the effectiveness of people, processes and technologies, 00:08:06.733 --> 00:08:09.666 providing wise stewardship of resources, and enhancing 00:08:09.666 --> 00:08:12.500 the capabilities of component or DHS employees. 00:08:14.133 --> 00:08:16.966 So I must say, I just want to emphasize one thing. 00:08:17.000 --> 00:08:21.266 Take a moment that what we are doing is recognizing 00:08:21.533 --> 00:08:24.966 shining examples of the work that's done every single day 00:08:24.966 --> 00:08:26.500 throughout this department. 00:08:26.500 --> 00:08:30.266 You know, behind me, of course, is this helicopter. 00:08:30.266 --> 00:08:36.300 And I was briefed earlier today about the innovation, the valor, the courage, 00:08:36.566 --> 00:08:41.366 the selflessness, the teamwork that goes into flying this helicopter 00:08:42.566 --> 00:08:44.066 in difficult weather 00:08:44.066 --> 00:08:46.333 over turbulent waters, sometimes 00:08:47.000 --> 00:08:49.500 dropping lifesaving rafts. 00:08:49.833 --> 00:08:54.400 At your risk, to oneself in the service of others. 00:08:54.433 --> 00:08:58.600 And so what we are doing in these ceremonies is just honoring 00:08:58.600 --> 00:09:02.966 those who provide a shining example of the heroic work 00:09:02.966 --> 00:09:07.033 that's done every single day throughout this department. 00:09:08.300 --> 00:09:11.066 Our first award for innovation is presented 00:09:11.100 --> 00:09:15.466 to the flood response capability team, United States Coast Guard, 00:09:16.033 --> 00:09:20.066 in response to historic levels of flooding and unprecedented demand 00:09:20.566 --> 00:09:24.500 for flood response capability due to increased weather events. 00:09:25.066 --> 00:09:28.100 The Flood Response Capability Team rapidly designed 00:09:28.366 --> 00:09:31.200 and acquired 12 mobile flood response kits. 00:09:31.833 --> 00:09:34.700 These kits consist of inflatable flood 00:09:34.700 --> 00:09:37.933 response boats, engines and supporting equipment 00:09:38.066 --> 00:09:42.300 able to be towed by pickup trucks and deployed to multiple catastrophic 00:09:42.600 --> 00:09:46.166 flooding events occurring simultaneously. 00:09:46.766 --> 00:09:52.366 In addition, they innovated specialized policy tactics training and procedures, 00:09:52.366 --> 00:09:55.933 and delivered specialized training courses and protective gear. 00:09:56.466 --> 00:09:59.966 Their efforts enabled more than 224 flood 00:09:59.966 --> 00:10:03.966 responders to conduct catastrophic flood response missions. 00:10:04.533 --> 00:10:08.433 Please join me in welcoming to the front to receive his award. 00:10:08.966 --> 00:10:11.600 Bradford Clark and in recognizing 00:10:11.866 --> 00:10:14.966 Scott Will Drake was unable to join us today 00:10:19.266 --> 00:10:20.200 Congratulations. 00:10:20.200 --> 00:10:21.700 Thank you so much. 00:10:23.933 --> 00:10:25.366 Regulations. 00:10:25.700 --> 00:10:28.800 Well, Bradford, let me ask you a question. 00:10:28.800 --> 00:10:34.166 When you when you innovate and you innovate to develop techniques 00:10:34.666 --> 00:10:39.633 and equipment to work in unprecedented, really difficult times. 00:10:40.400 --> 00:10:42.333 What's your testing regime like? 00:10:42.333 --> 00:10:42.866 To know that 00:10:42.866 --> 00:10:45.933 what you're actually deploying to the field is going to meet the moment? 00:10:47.600 --> 00:10:49.366 Thank you, Mr. Secretary. 00:10:49.366 --> 00:10:52.400 Just for us, I think from a testing standpoint, as you know, 00:10:52.400 --> 00:10:57.166 we've been responding to hurricanes and flooding for a long time now. 00:10:57.166 --> 00:11:00.766 And just when we went back to look within the field of 00:11:01.700 --> 00:11:05.166 of what our units were doing, there was no standardization. 00:11:05.466 --> 00:11:10.366 And so when we we got that feedback from and it was in 2017 post 00:11:10.366 --> 00:11:14.466 Florence and Harvey that we saw a lot of the feedback component. 00:11:14.500 --> 00:11:16.600 There's no formal standardization among our units. 00:11:16.600 --> 00:11:20.033 So what we did is we took that and actually a lot of that feedback 00:11:20.033 --> 00:11:23.500 because myself and several others that are being recognized for this, 00:11:23.866 --> 00:11:26.600 I directly receive that feedback from the field. 00:11:26.600 --> 00:11:30.400 So that's why we were able to implement standardize platforms. 00:11:30.400 --> 00:11:33.733 Those, those those inflatables that you spoke of sir, as well as 00:11:34.333 --> 00:11:37.500 formalized training which we have an actual school for the training. 00:11:37.933 --> 00:11:41.300 And the biggest thing is to is now that it's two 00:11:41.300 --> 00:11:44.766 to three years into the program and we've established a program 00:11:44.766 --> 00:11:48.500 now we can start reaching back out and getting that feedback from the field. So. 00:11:48.700 --> 00:11:52.800 So there's always constant improvement for the for that program. 00:11:52.800 --> 00:11:56.166 So it's just we look forward to hearing that and actually just continue 00:11:56.366 --> 00:11:59.166 from the innovation standpoint as it's continue to 00:11:59.300 --> 00:12:00.633 to receive that feedback from the. 00:12:01.766 --> 00:12:05.500 Thank you very much and congratulations. 00:12:11.700 --> 00:12:14.433 Our second award for innovation is presented to the Coast Guard 00:12:14.433 --> 00:12:17.633 COVID 19 vaccine common operating picture team. 00:12:18.300 --> 00:12:21.600 The coming up operating picture team consists of the Coast Guard, COVID 19 00:12:21.600 --> 00:12:22.766 crisis action team. 00:12:22.766 --> 00:12:26.800 The COVID 19 vaccine incident command and the Data Readiness Task Force. 00:12:27.566 --> 00:12:30.900 This joint team used lean principles and key stakeholder connections 00:12:30.900 --> 00:12:34.766 with field operators to compile hundreds of data sets and public data sources 00:12:35.100 --> 00:12:37.833 which they utilized to develop an analytically based COVID 00:12:37.833 --> 00:12:40.500 19 common operating picture within four weeks. 00:12:41.366 --> 00:12:43.700 Thanks to this novel software tool, nearly half 00:12:43.700 --> 00:12:46.400 of the entire Coast Guard was vaccinated within four months. 00:12:47.500 --> 00:12:49.600 This reduces the planning time from days to minutes. 00:12:49.933 --> 00:12:53.600 Kept leaders informed in real time and enabled them to keep their focus on 00:12:53.600 --> 00:12:54.666 actual operations. 00:12:55.866 --> 00:12:56.966 The tool now serves as 00:12:56.966 --> 00:12:58.066 the foundation of the Coast 00:12:58.066 --> 00:13:01.100 Guard's enterprisewide integrated data environment that provides 00:13:01.100 --> 00:13:04.466 executive and field level leaders with real time readiness information. 00:13:05.100 --> 00:13:08.500 It is enabling additional operational and budgetary efficiencies 00:13:08.500 --> 00:13:10.066 throughout the Coast Guard 00:13:10.066 --> 00:13:13.600 Please join me in welcoming to the front to receive their award. 00:13:13.933 --> 00:13:17.500 Greg Lam and Sharon Russell, as well as recognized Josiah Tupper, 00:13:17.633 --> 00:13:20.100 who could not be here today. 00:13:24.833 --> 00:13:26.633 Thank you very much 00:13:28.433 --> 00:13:29.066 Vaccinations. 00:13:29.066 --> 00:13:30.966 Great. Thank you. 00:13:30.966 --> 00:13:32.233 Congratulations. 00:13:32.233 --> 00:13:33.800 Thank you so much. 00:13:35.033 --> 00:13:37.600 Love to hear about the lean principles that you applied. 00:13:37.700 --> 00:13:40.600 You know, it's amazing to take what is a challenge 00:13:41.333 --> 00:13:43.666 and turn it into an opportunity to innovate. 00:13:44.133 --> 00:13:46.433 So would love to hear about that. 00:13:46.433 --> 00:13:46.866 I think so. 00:13:46.866 --> 00:13:50.600 A lot of the foundation for us was set forth by the Data Readiness Task Force 00:13:50.600 --> 00:13:53.266 when we started treating our data like a strategic asset. 00:13:53.666 --> 00:13:56.833 And it really helped us create that integrated data environment that we needed 00:13:57.133 --> 00:14:01.133 to get the senior leadership the information they needed in real time. 00:14:01.833 --> 00:14:03.100 It was a pleasure working with the team 00:14:03.100 --> 00:14:04.900 and a lot of great people, a lot of great support. 00:14:04.900 --> 00:14:07.700 If it wasn't for senior leadership, it's helping us cut through red tape. 00:14:07.700 --> 00:14:08.966 I don't know if we would have been 00:14:08.966 --> 00:14:12.566 successful, but we knew each day, each shot we gave someone to help us 00:14:12.566 --> 00:14:15.400 get our people protected and ready to support the rest of our missions. 00:14:16.900 --> 00:14:19.066 Characteristically pointing out the 00:14:19.466 --> 00:14:21.900 the contributions of others. 00:14:22.233 --> 00:14:26.866 I think one of the other characteristics and qualities that we're recognizing 00:14:26.866 --> 00:14:30.566 today is selflessness, and you exemplify that as well. 00:14:30.866 --> 00:14:32.566 Congratulations again. 00:14:32.566 --> 00:14:33.700 Thank you. 00:14:40.666 --> 00:14:43.333 Our next award is the Secretary's Award for Team Excellence. 00:14:43.933 --> 00:14:47.633 This award recognized as any unit within the department, such as a component 00:14:47.633 --> 00:14:51.133 directorate, office division or section with outstanding team achievements 00:14:51.133 --> 00:14:53.966 and operational areas such as law enforcement, aviation, 00:14:54.166 --> 00:14:59.166 cybersecurity, border patrol, hiring, acquisition and information technology. 00:14:59.866 --> 00:15:03.466 The work will have resulted in measurable improvements in training and development 00:15:03.466 --> 00:15:07.100 and will have demonstrated an investment in the workforce to make it more capable. 00:15:07.866 --> 00:15:10.666 The work of the unit will include superior performance and significant 00:15:10.666 --> 00:15:15.333 operational improvements and or notable innovation in support of DHS. 00:15:15.333 --> 00:15:15.800 Missions. 00:15:17.133 --> 00:15:19.633 So sometimes when we accomplish 00:15:21.033 --> 00:15:23.166 it's the papers and 00:15:23.833 --> 00:15:27.900 is really publicly recognized immediately, and sometimes 00:15:28.966 --> 00:15:31.533 we achieve extraordinary things. 00:15:31.766 --> 00:15:33.000 And the people impacted. 00:15:33.000 --> 00:15:37.766 No, but perhaps the broader community the broader country is not aware of. 00:15:38.066 --> 00:15:42.700 It is our responsibility in the Office of the Secretary to make sure that 00:15:43.466 --> 00:15:46.833 the entire country knows of the great work throughout the Department 00:15:46.833 --> 00:15:50.300 of Homeland Security, the team that we recognize now. 00:15:51.166 --> 00:15:55.366 These accomplishments did, in fact, capture the headlines. 00:15:56.033 --> 00:16:00.166 The first award for team excellence is presented to the Immigration 00:16:00.166 --> 00:16:03.600 and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, 00:16:03.900 --> 00:16:07.933 Haiti Response Team on July 7th, 2021 00:16:08.333 --> 00:16:12.800 HSC special agents assigned to the US Embassy in Port au Prince, Haiti, 00:16:13.133 --> 00:16:17.100 responded to the Haitian government's request for assistance in the immediate 00:16:17.100 --> 00:16:20.800 aftermath of the assassination of the Haitian president. 00:16:21.533 --> 00:16:24.000 The Haiti response team organized and mobilized 00:16:24.000 --> 00:16:27.733 to assist the Haitian National Police in their investigation. 00:16:28.233 --> 00:16:31.133 They helped conduct interviews of detained subjects 00:16:31.133 --> 00:16:35.166 linked to the assassination, assisted with the collection of crucial evidence 00:16:35.566 --> 00:16:38.566 and analyzed seized electronic media. 00:16:39.033 --> 00:16:43.600 These special agents deployed to Haiti and provided superior performance 00:16:43.600 --> 00:16:46.766 and unprecedented ended assistance of the government of Haiti. 00:16:47.100 --> 00:16:50.433 Understand that some of the most adverse conditions. 00:16:51.066 --> 00:16:54.100 Please join me in welcoming Alexandra de 00:16:54.100 --> 00:16:57.466 Armas, John Valentine and U.S. 00:16:57.466 --> 00:16:58.900 Joe Rosario. 00:16:58.900 --> 00:17:02.366 Also, please give a round of applause for Christopher Chancey. 00:17:02.566 --> 00:17:06.600 Geoffrey grooming William Hunter, Harrison Lopes, Richard Martin, 00:17:06.933 --> 00:17:12.200 Monero and Gilberto Quintana, who were unable to join us today. 00:17:18.033 --> 00:17:18.800 Confront 00:17:20.866 --> 00:17:22.000 Thank you so much. 00:17:22.000 --> 00:17:23.566 Congratulations. 00:17:24.366 --> 00:17:25.333 Thank you. 00:17:26.966 --> 00:17:30.033 Yours is in the mail, you said. 00:17:30.033 --> 00:17:31.500 Congratulations. 00:17:31.500 --> 00:17:32.933 Thank you so much. 00:17:32.933 --> 00:17:35.200 Thank you. Congratulations. 00:17:35.200 --> 00:17:38.133 So how did it feel 00:17:38.133 --> 00:17:42.466 to conduct an investigation 00:17:42.966 --> 00:17:46.600 not only of such high stakes, 00:17:47.500 --> 00:17:50.400 not only at such a sensitive time 00:17:50.766 --> 00:17:53.300 in another country's history, 00:17:53.800 --> 00:17:56.400 but also with really 00:17:56.400 --> 00:17:59.033 the eyes of the hemisphere 00:17:59.966 --> 00:18:02.500 on the events that you were addressing? 00:18:03.600 --> 00:18:05.533 Think I speak for all of us when I say it 00:18:05.533 --> 00:18:09.133 makes us feel very proud to work for homeland security investigations 00:18:09.133 --> 00:18:12.566 and have a great support of the team back in the US. 00:18:13.600 --> 00:18:17.866 It was we never had any doubt that we had support from our great criminal analysts. 00:18:18.233 --> 00:18:21.800 Our computer forensic agents were right there 00:18:21.800 --> 00:18:25.200 with us working around the clock and 00:18:26.333 --> 00:18:28.533 without their support. 00:18:28.533 --> 00:18:30.733 With their support, it made everything a lot easier. 00:18:30.766 --> 00:18:36.300 So we are proud to work together with our partners from FBI 00:18:36.300 --> 00:18:39.000 and to support the Haitian National Police in our efforts. 00:18:40.133 --> 00:18:43.866 John, do you have anything to add to? 00:18:44.400 --> 00:18:45.333 As you know, 00:18:46.300 --> 00:18:49.133 is a beautiful country, but it's a challenging country. 00:18:50.733 --> 00:18:56.400 But the team we had deploy out there work countless hours. 00:18:57.000 --> 00:18:58.733 There was never 00:18:59.166 --> 00:19:02.166 any complaint to support 00:19:02.166 --> 00:19:04.700 that we receive and provide it 00:19:05.266 --> 00:19:09.300 to our foreign counterparts to get the job done. 00:19:09.633 --> 00:19:14.600 Is is something that, you know, we will always look back and see all the good work 00:19:15.633 --> 00:19:18.866 that that that was accomplished and so forth. 00:19:20.566 --> 00:19:24.266 So with the team we were able to provide a lot of training 00:19:25.133 --> 00:19:28.833 in the how to do certain things because at the end of the day, 00:19:28.833 --> 00:19:34.766 our main goal was to make sure that the our nexus in the U.S. 00:19:34.766 --> 00:19:38.633 and individuals that were part of of this 00:19:40.700 --> 00:19:41.766 of this 00:19:43.133 --> 00:19:44.366 activity make 00:19:44.366 --> 00:19:48.333 sure that we were able to facilitate and prosecute and state 00:19:48.333 --> 00:19:51.400 so the investigation is still ongoing. 00:19:52.500 --> 00:19:57.166 But our support and the team and the work that we're doing, our foreign. 00:19:57.333 --> 00:20:00.800 Partners continues 00:20:00.800 --> 00:20:04.400 Congratulations again and thank you 00:20:08.600 --> 00:20:09.300 You know, 00:20:09.700 --> 00:20:11.800 when I learned earlier today 00:20:12.100 --> 00:20:17.066 the details about when when, in fact, two hostages were first 00:20:17.666 --> 00:20:20.166 released by reason of the great work 00:20:20.166 --> 00:20:22.600 of our colleagues, so was the United States Coast Guard 00:20:23.266 --> 00:20:27.766 that was called to respond to Haiti and very, very difficult circumstances 00:20:28.133 --> 00:20:32.000 and bring those two hostages home to the United States 00:20:32.000 --> 00:20:33.266 to safety. 00:20:38.100 --> 00:20:40.900 The second award for team excellence. Is 00:20:40.900 --> 00:20:42.200 so great. 00:20:42.200 --> 00:20:43.933 I don't want to ruin the surprise, sir. 00:20:43.933 --> 00:20:45.000 Go for it. 00:20:45.000 --> 00:20:47.933 Teamwork presented to the cybersecurity workforce. 00:20:47.966 --> 00:20:48.733 Sprint team. 00:20:48.733 --> 00:20:50.033 The Sprint team facilitated 00:20:50.033 --> 00:20:52.933 the department's largest cybersecurity hiring initiative in its history. 00:20:53.300 --> 00:20:57.933 With the onboarding and nearly 300 of nearly 300 cybersecurity professionals 00:20:58.600 --> 00:21:01.433 and the extension of an additional 300 tentative job offers. 00:21:01.900 --> 00:21:04.700 Their efforts advanced cyber resilience across all sectors 00:21:04.700 --> 00:21:06.900 and at every level of government. Integrating diversity, 00:21:06.900 --> 00:21:09.333 equity and inclusion throughout every aspect of our work. 00:21:09.833 --> 00:21:10.933 Both important priorities. 00:21:10.933 --> 00:21:12.966 Both are important priorities of this department. 00:21:13.633 --> 00:21:16.233 This hiring action comes when attacks on critical infrastructure, 00:21:16.233 --> 00:21:18.533 including pipelines and agricultural facilities, 00:21:18.966 --> 00:21:21.366 have heightened the focus on DHS cyber mission. 00:21:22.133 --> 00:21:23.700 Please welcome to the Front to receive as a word 00:21:23.700 --> 00:21:25.933 from the United States Coast Guard. Jason Gillis. 00:21:34.433 --> 00:21:36.566 Issued regulations. 00:21:36.566 --> 00:21:39.033 So I think everybody is very well aware 00:21:39.500 --> 00:21:43.800 of the increasing prominence of the cybersecurity threat 00:21:44.300 --> 00:21:47.966 and to really meet the challenge, the urgency 00:21:48.333 --> 00:21:53.400 and gravity of the challenge, we really had to undertake a cybersecurity 00:21:53.400 --> 00:22:00.266 hiring a sprint, and that was accomplished in unprecedented fashion. 00:22:00.266 --> 00:22:06.533 This was the largest cybersecurity hiring effort in in the department's history. 00:22:06.533 --> 00:22:12.200 And it was an extraordinary success because of your accomplishments 00:22:12.200 --> 00:22:16.966 and just want to congratulate you and just ask you, 00:22:18.133 --> 00:22:22.000 do you think the model that you defined in 00:22:22.000 --> 00:22:24.166 this effort can be easily replicated 00:22:25.133 --> 00:22:27.300 elsewhere in the department, 00:22:27.300 --> 00:22:30.700 just as the standard operating procedure, was there something exceptional 00:22:30.966 --> 00:22:34.100 that you were able to do that we could replicate? 00:22:34.100 --> 00:22:34.833 So, absolutely. 00:22:34.833 --> 00:22:40.600 So in my role, I'm responsible for the data analytics for this cyber team. 00:22:40.600 --> 00:22:45.000 And by using this, we are going to benchmark this activity 00:22:45.000 --> 00:22:48.800 and hiring other cyber positions. So. 00:22:48.933 --> 00:22:52.166 So this will definitely be something that we use and we're going to study 00:22:52.400 --> 00:22:56.133 and move forward with with hiring additional cyber positions. 00:22:57.066 --> 00:23:01.666 So the the point or one of the points really is that, 00:23:02.100 --> 00:23:06.133 you know, these accomplishments, they're not momentary. 00:23:06.566 --> 00:23:09.133 They're not momentary in the lives that we impact, 00:23:09.133 --> 00:23:13.133 but they're also not momentary in the life of the department itself, 00:23:13.133 --> 00:23:16.766 because what we do is we draw upon the best 00:23:17.000 --> 00:23:19.233 and then the best becomes what is standard. 00:23:19.566 --> 00:23:22.300 And we define we redefined 00:23:22.300 --> 00:23:25.666 the best at every chapter of our department. 00:23:25.666 --> 00:23:27.700 So congratulations again 00:23:34.433 --> 00:23:37.166 the final Team Excellence Award is presented 00:23:37.466 --> 00:23:40.833 to the Fast Response Code acquisition or Warranty Team. 00:23:41.166 --> 00:23:45.366 This team is recognized for outstanding team achievement in support of Cutter 00:23:45.366 --> 00:23:49.200 Mission Readiness and execution of Homeland Security Operations. 00:23:49.466 --> 00:23:50.733 Worldwide. 00:23:50.733 --> 00:23:53.566 The warranty team's responsive and passionate focus 00:23:53.900 --> 00:23:56.833 on operational readiness drove swift resolution 00:23:57.233 --> 00:24:01.466 on a range of post delivery career issues made more impressive 00:24:01.800 --> 00:24:05.466 due to the geographic disbursement of the 45 cutter fleet. 00:24:06.233 --> 00:24:10.900 The warranty team strategically staged its members in transit ports of call 00:24:11.133 --> 00:24:16.066 to focus on strict enforcement of contract requirements with the prime contractor. 00:24:16.433 --> 00:24:20.366 As a result, Qatar has made timely transitions to new home ports 00:24:20.366 --> 00:24:24.800 in Guam and the Persian Gulf to support emergent national security priorities 00:24:25.266 --> 00:24:29.933 and execute a range of Homeland Security and Department of Defense missions. 00:24:30.566 --> 00:24:33.766 Please give a round of applause for Scott to Joseph and James 00:24:33.766 --> 00:24:36.800 Sanford, who were unable to join us today. 00:24:46.266 --> 00:24:47.100 And now Sarah will 00:24:47.100 --> 00:24:49.966 move to the final category, Secretary's Award for Valor. 00:24:50.866 --> 00:24:53.733 This award is the highest recognition for extra extraordinary 00:24:53.733 --> 00:24:56.233 acts of valor occurring either on or off duty. 00:24:56.866 --> 00:24:59.800 The employee will have demonstrated selfless response by performing 00:24:59.800 --> 00:25:02.833 courageously in a highly dangerous or life threatening situation 00:25:03.100 --> 00:25:04.366 to protect another's life 00:25:04.366 --> 00:25:07.133 or to save significant assets or infrastructure from harm. 00:25:07.966 --> 00:25:10.700 Both civilian and military employees of the department are eligible 00:25:10.700 --> 00:25:11.900 for the award. 00:25:13.733 --> 00:25:15.666 The Award for Valor 00:25:15.666 --> 00:25:19.066 is presented to deportation officer Jose Negron, 00:25:19.700 --> 00:25:21.933 Immigration and Customs Enforcement, 00:25:22.400 --> 00:25:25.233 Enforcement Removal Operations. 00:25:25.233 --> 00:25:28.800 Deportation Officer Negron demonstrated exceptional valor 00:25:29.233 --> 00:25:32.233 while assigned to the Combined Mission Flight Squadron 00:25:32.700 --> 00:25:37.100 in Afghanistan from December 20, 20 through May 2021. 00:25:37.666 --> 00:25:41.400 During his 19 years of service, he has been deployed 00:25:41.400 --> 00:25:45.266 five times to Afghanistan and once to Iraq. 00:25:45.900 --> 00:25:49.833 In his most recent deployment, he was assigned to the Combat Search 00:25:49.833 --> 00:25:53.833 and Rescue Squadron, where he conducted 23 missions 00:25:54.266 --> 00:25:58.833 in a challenging, hostile and volatile warzone environment. 00:25:59.666 --> 00:26:04.133 The squadron displayed extraordinary heroism by conducting multiple emergency 00:26:04.133 --> 00:26:09.833 medical evaluations, which resulted in saving the lives of 13 U.S. 00:26:09.833 --> 00:26:13.733 servicemen who had been injured while providing training and support 00:26:14.000 --> 00:26:15.400 to Afghan soldiers 00:26:17.433 --> 00:26:18.266 The squadron 00:26:18.266 --> 00:26:23.066 displayed extraordinary heroism by conducting multiple emergency 00:26:23.066 --> 00:26:29.066 medical evaluations, which resulted in saving the lives of 13 U.S. 00:26:29.066 --> 00:26:32.100 servicemen who had been injured while providing training 00:26:32.366 --> 00:26:35.133 and support to Afghan soldiers. 00:26:35.400 --> 00:26:39.166 Please join me in welcoming to the front to receive this award 00:26:39.400 --> 00:26:41.066 because they make it all 00:26:50.266 --> 00:26:51.866 Thank you so much. 00:26:52.033 --> 00:26:53.466 You know, Jose 00:26:55.433 --> 00:26:57.733 I use the 00:26:57.733 --> 00:27:01.800 I use the term hero to describe the people 00:27:01.800 --> 00:27:05.733 that Department of Homeland Security I use it advisedly. 00:27:05.733 --> 00:27:08.733 I do not use it loosely. 00:27:09.400 --> 00:27:11.833 And our society 00:27:12.000 --> 00:27:14.700 recognizes different types of heroism. 00:27:15.333 --> 00:27:20.966 And you exemplify many different qualities 00:27:21.733 --> 00:27:25.500 that really comprise heroism. 00:27:25.633 --> 00:27:28.400 And I spoke very generally 00:27:29.366 --> 00:27:32.266 about the circumstances 00:27:32.266 --> 00:27:34.700 that you encountered and 00:27:36.300 --> 00:27:38.533 that you brave through 00:27:38.533 --> 00:27:41.333 to save other people's lives. 00:27:41.400 --> 00:27:46.833 Is there anything that you want to share with us about that experience and 00:27:48.900 --> 00:27:51.500 how what prepared you for 00:27:51.500 --> 00:27:53.900 it and how it impacted you? 00:27:55.300 --> 00:27:56.733 I would say, like 00:27:57.100 --> 00:28:00.433 I'll say 19 years of experience will prepare me for that. 00:28:01.000 --> 00:28:05.033 It comes to a point, becomes a reflex just when humanity cause 00:28:05.033 --> 00:28:08.066 you just react in and provide help. 00:28:09.800 --> 00:28:13.933 Those 13 servicemembers are 00:28:15.500 --> 00:28:18.533 you know, I still see their faces and 00:28:20.033 --> 00:28:22.166 and unfortunately, 00:28:23.166 --> 00:28:25.366 the last 13 I wasn't there for them. 00:28:25.566 --> 00:28:26.766 You know what I mean? 00:28:27.600 --> 00:28:31.100 And so 00:28:31.333 --> 00:28:33.633 coming from a combat search and rescue squadron, 00:28:34.466 --> 00:28:37.733 I wish I was in Afghanistan. 00:28:40.766 --> 00:28:42.100 Every last minute of it, 00:28:42.100 --> 00:28:45.766 you know, just to find help from my fellow armed forces. 00:28:46.066 --> 00:28:49.166 So it's a great honor 00:28:49.300 --> 00:28:51.933 to be part of that mission. 00:28:53.500 --> 00:28:56.600 It's very rewarding and challenging. 00:28:58.166 --> 00:29:01.133 Like I said, it just it becomes a reflex 00:29:02.133 --> 00:29:03.266 at one point. 00:29:03.266 --> 00:29:06.433 And so. So thank you. 00:29:06.666 --> 00:29:10.200 And I guess I would just like it to be there to be role. 00:29:10.766 --> 00:29:11.466 Thank you. 00:29:11.633 --> 00:29:12.366 Thank you. 00:29:12.366 --> 00:29:13.333 Was a 00:29:14.033 --> 00:29:14.800 great year. 00:29:21.066 --> 00:29:24.100 So Jose very modestly said that 00:29:26.100 --> 00:29:27.600 luck had something to do with it. 00:29:27.600 --> 00:29:32.266 I remember a Branch Rickey who was the famous manager of the Los 00:29:32.266 --> 00:29:39.300 Angeles Dodgers who really helped Jackie Robinson break a race barrier. 00:29:39.300 --> 00:29:44.433 And Major League Baseball said that luck is the residue of design 00:29:45.833 --> 00:29:49.000 I don't I don't think there was anything lucky 00:29:49.366 --> 00:29:54.766 about what you accomplished, Jose, when when heroism becomes a reflex 00:29:55.766 --> 00:29:58.833 that's a personal and professional accomplishment. 00:29:59.666 --> 00:30:04.800 And I think you said something very, very beautiful 00:30:04.800 --> 00:30:08.633 which I think speaks to everyone throughout this department. 00:30:08.633 --> 00:30:10.700 When humanity causes us to react 00:30:11.766 --> 00:30:13.400 and will remember that. 00:30:13.400 --> 00:30:17.066 And with your permission to use that again, 00:30:18.733 --> 00:30:20.700 the Second Valor Award 00:30:20.700 --> 00:30:24.466 is presented to the fish fishing vessel by irony rescue 00:30:24.866 --> 00:30:27.566 flight crew, United States Coast Guard 00:30:28.333 --> 00:30:30.633 Air Station, Sitka, Alaska, 00:30:31.766 --> 00:30:33.000 on November one. 00:30:33.000 --> 00:30:34.633 20. 20. 00:30:34.666 --> 00:30:38.333 A helicopter rescue was launched from Coast Guard Air Station 00:30:38.333 --> 00:30:42.033 Sitka, Alaska, during a significant winter storm. 00:30:42.733 --> 00:30:45.400 The sole operator of the sinking vessel Irony 00:30:45.866 --> 00:30:51.033 had activated an emergency radio beacon as the fishing boat was capsizing, 00:30:51.366 --> 00:30:55.833 battling zero visibility 60 knot winds. 00:30:56.066 --> 00:31:00.933 Severe turbulence in southeast Alaska's perilous mountain fjords. 00:31:01.433 --> 00:31:03.933 The pilot, Lieutenant Justin Neil, 00:31:04.400 --> 00:31:08.300 skillfully navigated to the scene despite approaching 00:31:08.300 --> 00:31:12.300 the limits of aircraft endurance and waning fuel reserves. 00:31:12.866 --> 00:31:16.733 Remember in zero visibility, the aircraft, 00:31:16.733 --> 00:31:21.266 the aircrew located the individual through expert use of infrared sensors. 00:31:21.700 --> 00:31:26.200 They delivered the rescue swimmer who then swam through high seas to rescue 00:31:26.566 --> 00:31:29.666 a severely hypothermic mariner, clinging 00:31:29.666 --> 00:31:32.566 to a small piece of shipwrecked debris. 00:31:33.333 --> 00:31:37.233 Please join me in welcoming to the front to receive his award. 00:31:37.700 --> 00:31:39.733 Lieutenant Justin Neil 00:31:48.300 --> 00:31:51.100 That's what I can do. 00:31:54.700 --> 00:31:56.033 Well. 00:31:56.033 --> 00:31:57.166 Justin. 00:31:58.400 --> 00:32:01.366 At any point in that operation. 00:32:01.466 --> 00:32:03.233 Zero visibility. 00:32:03.233 --> 00:32:06.066 All of the challenges that I just 00:32:06.633 --> 00:32:08.933 I just identified 00:32:11.666 --> 00:32:13.466 was their fear. 00:32:14.733 --> 00:32:15.633 In you. 00:32:15.833 --> 00:32:18.066 And honestly, when we came on duty that night, 00:32:18.066 --> 00:32:19.700 it was one of those nights where you go and you do like 00:32:19.700 --> 00:32:22.166 if I have to go out, tonight is more challenging. 00:32:22.166 --> 00:32:24.733 The wind was shaking the house before I left. 00:32:25.500 --> 00:32:27.766 I mean, within about an hour. 00:32:27.766 --> 00:32:29.666 Of coming. On duty, we got the call. 00:32:29.666 --> 00:32:32.966 And it wasn't till I landed in Ketchikan about three 00:32:33.000 --> 00:32:36.333 and a half hours later, I was like, wow, what did we just do it? 00:32:37.066 --> 00:32:39.000 I can't be here today there in Alaska still. 00:32:39.000 --> 00:32:41.366 But my rescue swimmer, Grant Roberts, 00:32:41.366 --> 00:32:44.366 Jimmy Water, a fine mechanic, and the other pilot John Workman. 00:32:44.866 --> 00:32:45.466 What a team. 00:32:45.466 --> 00:32:48.066 Effort that we were able to put together to include. 00:32:48.433 --> 00:32:52.033 District 17 sector Juneau District Air Resource assets 00:32:52.466 --> 00:32:55.200 to keep updating us for the position of the vessel was I mean 00:32:56.033 --> 00:32:58.100 that that's I mean I still think about today you know 00:32:58.233 --> 00:33:00.933 it's been a while since that happened and sitting down to just kind of 00:33:01.666 --> 00:33:05.600 it's one of those cases that you'll never forget it always remember and hope. 00:33:05.600 --> 00:33:06.433 They never have to repeat. 00:33:08.200 --> 00:33:10.466 Well please join me in congratulating 00:33:10.466 --> 00:33:12.866 another DHS for. 00:33:21.833 --> 00:33:24.466 Thank you to all of our awardees for sharing their talents. 00:33:24.966 --> 00:33:26.900 Making a commitment to public service 00:33:26.900 --> 00:33:29.866 and representing the department in the highest possible manner. 00:33:30.566 --> 00:33:33.933 Let's have another round of applause. 00:33:39.733 --> 00:33:42.266 Last week I was in I was in Vermont. 00:33:44.233 --> 00:33:46.433 To give some awards there as the first 00:33:47.733 --> 00:33:49.833 ceremony in what is going to be 00:33:49.833 --> 00:33:53.433 a series of of awards throughout 00:33:53.733 --> 00:33:57.566 throughout the country to recognize so many people, so many colleagues. 00:33:58.200 --> 00:34:00.666 And I mentioned something that I'd like to repeat 00:34:03.200 --> 00:34:07.300 There are many people who earn a living 00:34:08.000 --> 00:34:10.066 and don't necessarily 00:34:11.733 --> 00:34:14.433 understand or realize 00:34:14.700 --> 00:34:19.766 whether or not their work impacts other people in a meaningful way. 00:34:20.366 --> 00:34:24.100 And one of the greatest privileges to be in the Department of Homeland Security 00:34:24.700 --> 00:34:29.700 is to understand and appreciate how much our work 00:34:30.100 --> 00:34:35.266 every single day impacts the lives of others and makes it better, 00:34:35.400 --> 00:34:40.633 whether it's safer, more secure or in some of the examples we understood 00:34:40.633 --> 00:34:45.100 today actually saves a life, touches 00:34:45.333 --> 00:34:48.200 a life at a time of greatest grief, 00:34:48.966 --> 00:34:53.933 makes life better to the improvement of the processes and operations 00:34:54.533 --> 00:34:58.266 that we execute, whether one is 00:34:59.666 --> 00:35:02.400 flying through a perilous 00:35:03.033 --> 00:35:06.366 weather to save a life in distress 00:35:06.866 --> 00:35:10.100 or whether one is in an office, 00:35:10.100 --> 00:35:13.833 improving a process that makes our department run. 00:35:14.400 --> 00:35:17.166 Whatever one does in this department. 00:35:17.433 --> 00:35:22.633 I hope everyone understands and appreciates how much your work matters 00:35:23.033 --> 00:35:26.466 in the life of others and in the life of this country. 00:35:26.466 --> 00:35:30.633 And I just want to say thank you very much and congratulations to all of you 00:35:31.666 --> 00:35:32.433 Thank you. 00:35:38.666 --> 00:35:40.566 And thank you for taking the time today. 00:35:40.566 --> 00:35:42.800 I look forward to mingling. 00:35:44.000 --> 00:35:45.766 Congratulations, awardees. 00:35:45.766 --> 00:35:46.766 Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, 00:35:46.766 --> 00:35:51.633 for taking the time as we recognize some fantastic DHS employees 00:35:51.633 --> 00:35:55.566 who keep America and Americans safe here at home and abroad. 00:35:56.233 --> 00:35:58.233 This concludes our ceremony awardees. 00:35:58.266 --> 00:36:00.233 You and your guests are welcome to join the Secretary 00:36:00.233 --> 00:36:02.433 as we take some pictures up front. 00:36:02.433 --> 00:36:03.866 Thank you Thank you so much. 00:36:07.033 --> 00:36:07.200 Thank.