After serving for three decades as an oceanographer in the US Navy, Rear Admiral Tim Gallaudet was appointed to lead the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) during the turbulent times of the first Trump administration. NOAA is America's top ocean, weather, climate, and environmental agency, and to say that many federal employees were less than thrilled when Trump took office would be an understatement. Finding himself caught up in the "Sharpiegate" incident and other frustrating events caused Gallaudet to wonder if remaining in office was worth the effort, but his decision to hold fast and lead with empathy and humility kept NOAA on an even keel despite the often stormy environment. He applied the lessons from his life and military service to provide positive servant leadership to NOAA, defying the odds and boosting morale and employee satisfaction to record levels. Drawing from both career accomplishment and personal tragedy, Gallaudet developed and applied a signature leadership approach to connect with employees at every level, making them feel valued and respected. Holding Fast in Heavy Seas provides an inspiring playbook for people of any calling who aspire to improve in their ability to positively influence others.