The San Diego Oceans Foundation is pleased to award the 2006 Roger Revelle Award to Dick Long, Founder of Diving Unlimited International, Inc., in recognition for his contributions to man's capacity to explore the ocean, with concern for the quality of the environment.
The San Diego Oceans Foundation's most prestigious honor, the Roger Revelle Award, is awarded annually to individuals from science, academia, industry, military, recreation and philanthropy who take the initiative in resolving ocean issues and to encourage stewardship of ocean resources. The award is named for the late Dr. Revelle, the former director of Scripps Institution of Oceanography and a driving force in the University of California, San Diego's early development.
Dick's fascination with the ocean directed him to develop his underwater skills leading him into scuba diving, and then equipment design at his dive shop in San Diego. After exposure to the Bering Sea on a Navy project and Sea Lab II, Dick developed a successful hot-water suit which allowed greater capabilities for science, the U.S. Navy, offshore oil and other commercial divers. He was a founder of NAUI (National Association of Underwater Instructors) in 1960, and has been a long-time consultant to government and industry on ocean technology and safe diving procedures.
After learning about the successful Canadian artificial reef project off Vancouver Island, Dick saw a great opportunity for San Diego, and led the San Diego Oceans Foundation in a multi-year, over 7000 man-hour volunteer effort to sink the Yukon off Mission Beach. The Yukon set the standard for the preparation, location and monitoring for all ships-to-reefs projects in the world.
Dick's experience with so many aspects of maritime operations helped give him a deep appreciation of the need to protect the ocean environment. Recognizing that a community-wide effort is needed to achieve that goal, as President of SDOF he led the effort to get things done. His enthusiastic leadership, commitment, and concern for others attracted excellent members for the SDOF Board of Directors to perpetuate these efforts.
Dick has received many awards for diving safety, education and innovation. SDOF is proud to present its Roger Revelle Award to him for his contributions in promoting the understanding and use of San Diego's ocean waters.
