DAHLGREN, Va. - Surface Combat Systems Training Command (SCSTC) recently announced its Small Site Civilian of the Year (COY) for 2023.
 
Mr. Ben Wallace, the IT specialist/N9 for SCSTC Detachment Western Pacific (WESTPAC), located aboard Fleet Activities Yokosuka, was selected for this award.
 
“It’s an honor and a privilege to be receiving this,” said Wallace.
 
Mr. Brian Parker, SCSTC’s executive director, says Wallace was selected because of his exceptional performance, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to excellence.
 
“Across the domain, we have a very talented civilian workforce consisting of subject matter experts [SME] who are dedicated to America’s Warfighting Navy,” explained Parker.  “However, Mr. Wallace’s technical expertise and collaborative skills have set a high benchmark for his teammates to emulate, making him the perfect choice for Small Site COY.  He is an instrumental member of the SCSTC team and very deserving of this recognition.”  
 
Throughout 2023, Wallace has excelled at managing inventory, conducting system vulnerability scanning and patching, and managing the Electronic Key Management Systems program and Communications Security Material System vault, as well as serving as the onsite representative for all ONE-Net assets. As a SME in IT, he provides valuable support for intrusion detection system installation, tracks authority to operate for all trainers, and works closely with headquarters (HQ) to finalize the risk management framework plan for all training devices. 
 
According to Cmdr. Mike Arnold, SCSTC Det WESTPAC’s officer in charge, Wallace is indispensable to his team and the entire SCSTC domain. 

"Through his exceptional operational management skills and strategic implementation of technology solutions, Mr. Wallace has significantly contributed to our command's efficiency and security, exemplifying the highest standards of professionalism and technical proficiency,” said Arnold.  “Demonstrating a relentless commitment to professional growth and technological innovation, his contributions have not only solved immediate challenges but have also positioned SCSTC for future success, making him the undeniable choice for my command’s COY and SCSTC’s Small Site COY."

Wallace has also been contributory in ensuring that all Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) electronic classroom information systems and virtual simulators comply with directed cyber and information security standards and regulations.  His close collaboration with SCSTC’s information systems security manager has resulted in significant contributions to establishing, implementing, and executing cybersecurity procedures in support of NETC and SCSTC HQ operations in the Forward Deployed Naval Forces in Japan.
 
Furthermore, as a trusted agent, he has been trained to repair and upgrade the Surface Training Advanced Virtual Environment - Combat Systems (STAVE-CS) Aegis and Anti-Submarine Warfare Virtual Operator Trainers reducing downtime and maintaining mission readiness.
 
Wallace was selected as Civilian of the Quarter for the first quarter of 2023 and has been part of the SCSTC team since June 2022.   
 
“While this position has been my first experience with the Navy, I must say it’s been an absolute pleasure,” he said.  “Everyone I’ve worked with here at SCSTC, both at our local detachment and at headquarters, has been helpful and welcoming. My team is great and my work is fulfilling – I couldn’t ask for more.”

The criteria for SCSTC’s Small Site COY Award includes superior service in support of the detachment and its mission, notable contributions to the training and development of Sailors, and demonstrated professionalism in assigned duties.
 
Surface Combat Systems Training Command (SCSTC), headquartered in Dahlgren, Virginia, falls under the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC), led by Rear Adm. Jeffrey Czerewko.  SCSTC is a global training organization that consists of 15 learning sites and detachments.  SCSTC’s mission is to provide the U.S. Navy and our allies with highly trained warfighters to maintain, operate, and tactically employ surface combat systems across the spectrum of operations.  Annually, SCSTC delivers training to over 37,000 U.S. Navy Sailors as well as 700 international Sailors from 27 partner nations. 
 
For information about SCSTC, visit https://www.netc.navy.mil/SCSTC      
 
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