Capt. Deems McKee

A prior-enlisted sailor and soldier, Capt. Deems McKee commands 333rd Signal Company, which has more than 100 members stationed in Okinawa, Japan, and in Guam. Taking over a unit with morale problems stemming from unfavorable shift schedules and a discontinued Family Readiness Program, McKee worked toward improving unit productivity and soldier quality of life, replacing a 12-hour shift schedule with eight-hour shifts, hosting regular town hall meetings to encourage family involvement, and improving and consolidating training programs to allow for more flexible scheduling and more capable troops.

The unit received multiple honors for its work in 2014, completing more than 200 satellite communications missions involving everything from support of naval exercises to searches for missing aircraft (including the Indonesia Air Asia Flight 8501). McKee also led a series of community relations efforts: outreach to local schools, monthly nursing home visits and support for the Special Olympics.

Notable quote from his nomination: "He allows his actions and results to speak on his behalf and is 100% dedicated to his mission and his soldiers and their families."