LA JOLLA, Calif. - s4story -- Retired U.S. Navy officer and bestselling author Steven-Paul Lapid has received the 2026 Military Writers Society of America (MWSA) Gold Medal in the How-to/Business/Self-Help category for his book, Helm & Horizon: Daily Leadership Principles for the Motivated Sailor.

The award was announced during MWSA's annual conference and awards banquet on October 24, 2026, in Orlando, Florida.

Published in November 2025, Helm & Horizon features 365 daily leadership principles drawn from established leadership literature, military history, and naval case studies. Designed for military and civilian professionals alike, the book emphasizes character, accountability, sound decision-making, and continuous personal development.

In its published review, MWSA stated:

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"Helm and Horizon is much more than just another leadership development handbook. In the hands of a resolute and eager junior officer, commissioned or non-commissioned, this book can be a real game changer."

"Receiving the MWSA Gold Medal is especially meaningful because this recognition comes from a community that understands military service and the importance of developing future leaders," said Lapid. "My hope is that Helm & Horizon encourages readers to approach leadership as a daily responsibility, one built through character, accountability, and a commitment to continuous growth."

Lapid retired from the U.S. Navy in 2022 following 22 years of service. Beginning his career as an enlisted Sailor, he later earned a commission through the Navy's Seaman to Admiral-21 program. Today, he continues his work in leadership education and professional development as founder of Helm & Horizon, a San Diego-based company focused on executive coaching, leadership development programs, and customized business training.

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In 2026, Lapid was also named a Veterans of Influence honoree by the San Diego Business Journal.

The MWSA Gold Medal joins the book's other literary honors, including the 2026 Readers' Favorite Bronze Medal in Non-Fiction Military and the Literary Titan Gold Book Award. The Amazon bestselling book has also received coverage in Military Review, RealClearDefense, the San Diego Union-Tribune, DODReads, and the Australian Naval Institute.

Official MWSA Book Review:
https://www.mwsadispatches.com/library/2026/helm-horizon

About Helm & Horizon

Founded by Steven-Paul Lapid, Helm & Horizon is a San Diego-based leadership development company dedicated to helping individuals and organizations build values-based leadership capabilities through executive coaching, leadership development programs, and customized business training.

Website: https://helmandhorizon.org

Lead with Purpose. Take the Helm. Keep Your Eyes on the Horizon.