[DNFSB LETTERHEAD]

 

July 25, 2005

 

Admiral Kirkland H. Donald

Deputy Administrator for Naval Reactors

National Nuclear Security Administration

Naval Sea Systems Command

Washington Navy Yard

1240 Isaac Hull Avenue, SE, Stop 8010

Washington, DC 20376-8010

 

Dear Admiral Donald:

 

Thank you for your letter of June 15, 2005, which provided the recent reports of Naval Reactors on radiological waste disposal and environmental monitoring, occupational safety and health, and occupational radiation exposure, as well as the annual overview of the program.  These reports cogently demonstrate Naval Reactors’ enduring commitment to protecting the public, workers, and the environment while providing for the defense of the nation.

 

I am pleased to note that the Naval Reactors’ program, extending from headquarters to the prime contractors and the construction and repair facilities, continues to exhibit extraordinary standards in the performance of work.  Naval Reactors consistently maintains a model program for the design, construction, operation, and decommissioning of nuclear-powered vessels, as well as the technical research necessary to support advances in nuclear propulsion technology.  The Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board (Board) believes Naval Reactors exhibits the traits of a high-reliability organization and considers it to be worthy of emulation by others within the Department of Energy.

 

The Board congratulates you for your sustained superior performance, and extends its best personal wishes to you and your associates.

 

Sincerely,

 

A. J. Eggenberger

Chairman

 

c:   The Honorable Samuel W. Bodman

The Honorable Linton Brooks

The Honorable John S. Shaw

The Honorable David K. Garman

Mr. Charles E. Anderson

Mr. Mark B. Whitaker, Jr.