Gavin Auerbach, who worked in Newport News Shipbuilding’s Foundry, had not been with the company for long when he passed away last year. However, his positive impact lingers on his fellow shipbuilders.

When Auerbach’s crew heard the Foundry Women’s Council was planning to create an award for those who go above and beyond and are always helpful, dedicated to their job and demonstrate a strong work ethic, they requested it be named in his honor.

“We all wholeheartedly supported the decision,” said Foundry Women’s Council Chair Stephanie West. “Gavin was with the shipyard for less than a year, but during that time he always went above and beyond for his co-workers and helped in every way he physically could. He is greatly missed in the building by all, but especially his former crew.”

Last week, Auerbach was posthumously awarded the inaugural Gavin Auerbach Award. His father Mark Auerbach Jr. and brother Jordan Auerbach – both shipbuilders – accepted the award on his behalf.