The Chief of Naval Operations Naval Intelligence Foundation (NIF) Navy League Award for Exceptional Leadership is presented annually to recognize leadership in providing excellence in operational intelligence support to the Fleet. Any Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard officer, O-4 through O-6, serving in an intelligence billet is eligible to receive the award, which was established in 2000. An awards committee composed of NIP and NLUS members selects the winner winner who is awarded a certificate of recognition, a commemorative wall plaque, an engraved "spy" telescope, an engraved watch, and a 1-year membership in Navy Intelligence Professionals.
LCDR Kenneth M. Panfilio, USN
CDR Jeffrey T. Vanak, USN, NSWDG Director of Intelligence
CDR Brian E. Harpuder, USN (ESG 7/CTF 76 IWC)
CDR Jeffrey P. Buschmann, USN
LCDR Andrew Hamilton, USN
CDR Peter M. Koprowski, USN
CDR Albert Angel, USN
No winner
LCDR Stephany Moore, USN
CDR Michael N. Oluvic, USN
CAPT Carl Inman, USN
LCDR Jason H. Davis, USN
LCDR George M. Lowe, USN
CDR Robert D. Sharp, USN
COL Robert K. Beauchamp, USMC
LCDR Jason L. Ansley, USN
CDR Eric A. Taylor, USN
LCDR D. Mark Houff, USN
CAPT Thomas Bortmes, USN
CDR Samuel J. Cox, USN