News Summary
Tom Davin, the former CEO of 5.11 Tactical, has passed away after battling ALS. He is remembered for his impactful leadership and contributions to the tactical apparel industry. Davin’s work and commitment extended beyond business, emphasizing advocacy for ALS awareness and supporting military veterans affected by the disease. Colleagues reflect on his legacy as one of bravery and mentorship, ensuring his mission against ALS continues through various organizations.
Newport Beach – Tom Davin, the former CEO of 5.11 Tactical and Panda Express, passed away on September 1 after a year-long battle with ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. He succumbed peacefully surrounded by his wife Molly and their three daughters.
Prior to his death, Davin was an influential executive in the tactical and casual apparel industry, known for his leadership at 5.11 Tactical, a company he helped grow into a recognized brand. His legacy is marked by the tremendous impact he left on the organization, as noted by his colleagues. Francisco J. Morales, co-founder of 5.11 Tactical, referred to Davin as a mentor, friend, and inspirational leader. The current CEO of 5.11 Tactical, Troy Brown, acknowledged the foundational work that Davin established, which positioned the company for promising future growth.
Davin’s diagnosis of ALS came a year ago, a disease he had a personal connection to through his close friend Augie Nieto, who also battled ALS. This connection spurred Davin to join Nieto’s nonprofit organization, Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS, which focuses on raising awareness and finding a cure for the disease. Following his passing, Augie’s Quest remarked on the ongoing fight against ALS, noting that while the disease had prevailed over both men, the war against ALS continues, especially emphasizing the elevated incidence of the disease among U.S. military members.
In June, Davin shared insights on his military experience as a Marine infantry and reconnaissance officer, reflecting on how it shaped his leadership abilities. He conveyed that the skills and resolve cultivated during his service provided him with the strength to confront his illness actively and keep pressing forward despite the challenges posed by ALS.
Davin’s contributions to the business world began long before his tenure at 5.11 Tactical. His career has encompassed various leadership roles across different sectors, significantly impacting his companies and colleagues. At 5.11 Tactical, he became known for fostering innovation and expanding the brand’s reach into new markets. His leadership style was characterized by an emphasis on teamwork, resilience, and the importance of building a strong corporate culture.
The battle against ALS has become more prominent due to its growing recognition, particularly concerning its incidence among military veterans. Advocates for ALS research like Augie’s Quest are bringing attention to the urgency of finding effective treatments and ultimately a cure for the devastating disease. The organization continues its fight, aligned with other advocacy groups, aiming to eradicate ALS and assist those who are currently diagnosed.
Throughout his life, Davin exemplified a commitment to service, both through his military career and subsequent business leadership. He is remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his personal bravery in fighting ALS and supporting vital causes related to the disease. In the wake of his passing, colleagues and friends will continue to honor his memory and legacy by pushing forward with the mission to combat ALS.
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Additional Resources
- Orange County Business Journal: Tom Davin Dies
- Wikipedia: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
- Orange County Business Journal: OC Leader Board
- Google Search: Tom Davin
- Augie’s Quest: To Cure ALS
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Neurological Disorder
- Orange County Business Journal: Tom Davin’s Military Experience
- Google News: ALS Research
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
