The U.S. Department of War announced the six recipients of the 2026 Commander in Chief's Annual Award for Installation Excellence, recognizing their outstanding and innovative efforts in supporting military missions. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth revealed the winners of this highly competitive presidential award on June 4, 2026.
This prestigious award acknowledges the exemplary work of personnel who operate and maintain U.S. military installations, highlighting their contributions to Department of War objectives. Installations were evaluated on several management areas, including mission support, quality of life, unit morale, real property management, safety, health, security, communications, and public relations.
The 2026 award recipients include U.S. Army Garrison Fort Bliss, Texas, commanded by Major General Curtis D. Taylor and Colonel Brendan R. Gallagher; Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, led by Colonel Jared K. Stone; and Naval Station Mayport, Florida, under the command of Rear Admiral John Hewitt. Also honored were Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, commanded by Colonel Jun S. Oh; Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado, led by Colonel Kenneth F. L. Klock; and Defense Supply Center Columbus, Ohio, commanded by Rear Admiral Julie M. Treanor.
These excellent installations are crucial for enhancing mission performance and improving working and living conditions for military personnel, Department of War civilians, and their families. Each winning installation will receive a commemorative trophy, an Installation Excellence flag, and a congratulatory letter from the President.