Wave Staff and Wire Report
SAN PEDRO — The National Museum of the Surface Navy at Battleship Iowa in San Pedro will honor Kamin Samuel, the U.S. Navy’s first African American female helicopter pilot, with its 2026 VADM Samuel L. Gravely Jr. Leadership Award during an October ceremony aboard the historic battleship.
The award recognizes leaders who exemplify the trailblazing service of the late Vice Adm. Samuel L. Gravely Jr., the first African American to command a U.S. Navy warship and achieve several flag officer milestones, according to museum officials.
Samuel will receive the award at the sixth annual Freedom of the Seas Awards Dinner on Oct. 24.
She served in the Navy for more than nine years, including as a flight instructor. Samuel is now an international business and career coach who works with professionals on leadership development, performance improvement and career advancement, officials said.
Samuel holds a PhD in positive neuropsychology, a masters of science in information systems, a masters of arts in spiritual psychology, and a masters of science in spiritual science. She also is the author of several books creating wealth and transforming life.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to receive the 2026 Vice Admiral Samuel L. Gravely, Jr. Leadership Award,” Samuel said in a statement. “To be recognized in the name of a leader whose courage, excellence and service opened doors for me and so many others is a privilege beyond words.”
Museum officials said Samuel’s pioneering military career and continued leadership made her a fitting recipient of an award named for the late vice admiral.
“Kamin’s example and her accomplishments embody everything VADM Gravely stood for,” Bruce D.D. MacRae, chairman of the museum’s board, said. “The National Museum of the Surface Navy is proud that the presentation of this award gives us the opportunity to recognize her extraordinary achievements.”
The Freedom of the Seas Awards Dinner is held annually in conjunction with the anniversary of the Battle of Leyte Gulf, widely regarded as the largest naval battle of World War II. Organizers said this year’s event will also commemorate the nation’s 250th birthday.
