Joe Negri was a WWII Submarine veteran and later COB on USS Piper. He was a prime mover in the creation of USSVI along with several others, and is considered to be our primary founder. Now deceased, Joe was a legend on the Groton Sub Base waterfront, and also well known for signing up new members using the back of a cocktail napkin as an application form!

Tim was voted to be this year's awardee because he has made gigantic contributions to the advancement of this organization. While Tim prefers to remain in the background, it is only right that his accomplishments and dedication see the light of day and he receive just recognition for his work.

USSVI, Naval Submarine League (NSL) and Sub Vets WWII online database & national web sites, over 100 USSVI Base and NSL Chapter websites, hundreds of submarine & ship websites,  and the national USSVI Membership and voting system are all testimonial to his expertise and generosity.