Naval Air Station Patuxent River has named Sgt. Kevin Molitor its Police Officer of the Year for 2026.
The award was presented during a special ceremony hosted by the St. Mary’s County Commissioners and Department of Aging and Human Services. Molitor, a Naval District Washington Police Officer stationed at Pax River, has served with the base’s Security Department since January 2022.
Prior to joining the federal police force, Molitor spent 10 years with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, where he developed the tactical and interpersonal skills that now define his leadership at Pax River.
Col. Stephen Schuyler, NAS Patuxent River chief of Police, praised Molitor’s hands-on leadership style.
“Sgt. Molitor’s leadership style is hands-on, consistently leading by example,” Schuyler said. “He is frequently seen out in the field, not only overseeing his officers but also actively participating in tasks alongside them. This approach fosters a positive and supportive environment where his officers feel guided and mentored. His dedication to being a visible, approachable leader has earned him the respect of his team, with his commitment to their success further reinforcing his role as both a supervisor and a mentor.”
Since his promotion to sergeant in July 2023, Molitor has served as Delta Shift Patrol Lead, managing daily operations and leading subordinate officers. He frequently steps into additional roles, including responding to calls for service, conducting traffic enforcement, taking reports, serving as Duty Armorer, functioning as a Field Training Officer and acting as Watch Commander when needed.
Most recently, Molitor took on the role of Selective Traffic Enforcement Program Coordinator and became an Emergency Vehicle Operator Course Instructor. He is also a NHTSA certified Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Instructor, a certification that is critical for training both Navy Master-at-Arms and civilian police officers to maintain compliance with Department of the Navy law enforcement standards.
“The feedback Sgt. Molitor has received from colleagues, supervisors, and community members has been overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing his outstanding reputation,” Schuyler added. “His professionalism, unwavering dedication, and positive attitude leave a lasting impression on all those who work with him. Sgt. Molitor’s contributions to the department and the community make him an invaluable asset and a true embodiment of the qualities of an outstanding law enforcement officer.”
Naval Air Station Patuxent River is one of the largest employers in St. Mary’s County and Southern Maryland, supporting thousands of military, civilian and contractor jobs. The base plays a critical role in naval aviation research, development, testing and evaluation. Strong law enforcement leadership at the installation helps maintain safety and security for the workforce and surrounding communities.
Molitor’s recognition highlights the close partnership between federal police at Pax River and local St. Mary’s County law enforcement agencies. The award ceremony, hosted by county leaders, underscores the shared commitment to public safety in the region.
