Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) commander Vice Admiral Phillip M. Balisle USN was the honorary speaker at this year's patent award ceremony at NAVSEA’s Carderock Division in Bethesda. The event recognizes outstanding creativity in science and engineering accomplished by Navy civilian employees of the division. The vice admiral recognized the 1,640 patents awarded to the division since 1940 compared to other government agencies. "I am stunned at the number of patent recipients. This is not just an award but more a recognition of a culture, of a profession, on the leading edge of what we do for the nation.” He said he was overwhelmed by the relevance of the latest patents. He underscored the need to rapidly transition these technologies to the Navy.