OUTSTANDING AMERICAN AWARD

1964-1967: Wrestled at Oak Harbor High School

1967-1972: University of Washington

1972-2008: U.S. Navy

Robert Passmore wrestled for Oak Harbor High School where he placed second in league and district as a junior and league and district champion as a senior in 1967. As a senior he was presented the Captains Award and the Inspirational Award by his teammates. Robert continued his education at the University of Washington on a Naval ROTC scholarship, and received both his commission and a Bachelor of Science degree in Oceanography in June of 1972. Passmore them completed a Master of Science degree in Computer Science in 1983. 

Passmore earned his Navy wings in 1973, and then served in numerous roles for the Navy. He was a flight instructor; flew anti-submarine aircraft around the world; Commanding Officer of Patrol Squadron 69; Commanding Officer of NAS Whidbey Island Reserve Unit; Commanding Officer of the USS Nimitz Reserve Unit; Navy Emergency Preparedness Officer for Washington State. Robert Passmore was promoted to Rear Admiral in 2000 and served as Deputy Commander of Fleet Air Mediterranean, then Vice Commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe after earning his second star (RAMD). He also served as Vice Commander of Naval Reserve Forces Command.

While visiting Naval Station Souda Bay, on the Island of Crete in the Mediterranean on 9/11, RADM Passmore was immediately tasked with the safeguard security of all shipping in the Mediterranean as well as the Naval bases in his command. Under his leadership his staff did an outstanding job coordinating the safety of civilian, Navy, allied ships, and facilities during the crisis.

In 2005, RADM Passmore was ordered to New Orleans to support search and rescue operations after Hurricane Katrina. After several weeks in New Orleans, he was ordered to Washington DC, where he organized and commanded the Task Force Navy Family. Over 100,000 Navy families were contacted and provided full spectrum services including emergency housing, schooling, relocation, healthcare, legal assistance, pay and benefits for those families affected by Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma. For all his team’s accomplishments RADM Passmore was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal.

In recognition of his leadership, Passmore has received numerous personal awards including the Legion of Merit (two awards), Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (three Awards), and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards). Rear Admiral Robert Passmore retired in March of 2007.

Passmore and his wife Janet currently reside in Mill Creek, Washington and are the parents of two adult sons, Brett (44) and Derek (41). The are also proud grandparents to grand daughter Keira (4).