Air Force Association Announces National Awards

Honors go to top civilian, military and industry leaders during the Air Force Association 2001 National Convention and Aerospace Technology Exposition. However, due to the events on September 11, 2001, the convention and the exposition were both cancelled. All awards will be distributed at a later date. AFA is an independent, non-profit, civilian aerospace organization promoting public understanding of aerospace power and the pivotal role it plays in the security of the nation. AFA publishes Air Force Magazine, sponsors national symposia and disseminates information through outreach programs of its affiliate, the Aerospace Education Foundation.

H.H. Arnold Award
The most outstanding military contributions in the field of National Security
General Joseph W. Ralston commander in chief, U.S. European Command and Supreme Allied 
Commander Europe, NATO, Mons, Belgium
Gen. Ralston is recognized for his outstanding service to the nation. His superb leadership continues to help sustain NATO's 50-year tradition as the guarantor of stability and security in Europe. During a period of dynamic change, Gen. Ralston oversees operations to stem ethnic violence in the Balkans and works daily to improve cooperation and communication throughout a unified combatant command with an area or responsibility that includes 89 nations in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

W. Stuart Symington Award
The most outstanding civilian contributions in the field of National Security
Senator Michael B. Enzi and Congressman Cliff Stearns
Senator Enzi and Congressman Stearns are recognized for co-founding the Congressional Air Force Caucus. The Caucus has worked to increase congressional awareness for Air Force modernization and quality of life programs. Caucus members also have provided invaluable advice and counsel to senior Air Force leaders. The Caucus sends a strong signal to Air Force members that there are Members of Congress prepared to speak out and act on their behalf.

John R. Alison Award
The most outstanding contributions to National Defense by an industrial leader
George David, Chairman and CEO, United Technologies Corporation
George David is recognized for his demonstrated leadership in the defense community. Under Mr. David's guidance, United Technologies has strengthened its commitment to research and development, which contributes to the modernization of out nation's defense industry and keeps its systems at the forefront of technological advances. He is also a knowledgeable and effective advocate of lifelong education and international trade.

David C. Schilling Award
The most outstanding contributions in the field of Flight
Lt. Col. David M. Nelson, Edwards AFB, CA
Lt. Col. Nelson is recognized for his tireless efforts, as the first F-22 operational test pilot, to improve the F-22 Raptor. He led the F-22 Combined Test Force in high-risk test sorties, expanding the aircraft's flight envelope. Colonel Nelson completed several first ever F-22 events to include sustained flight at negative 60 degrees angle-of-attack and the launch of an Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile. His multitude of operationally oriented design changes have significantly improved the aircraft's utility. AFA salutes the piloting shills of this unique airman as well as his role as expert spokesman for the F-22 program to Congress, DoD, foreign air leaders and the media.

Theodore von Karman Award
HAVE CSAR Team, Schriever AFB, CO
The team is recognized for formulating a revolutionary solution for a demonstrated Combat Search and Rescue mission shortfall. This capability, which puts over-the-horizon data into the cockpit of search and rescue aircraft, progressed from concept to initial operational fielding in just three months. Installed on Operation Northern Watch and Southern Watch helicopters, it provides a near-real-time intelligence system that displays information on the downed crew member position and how to safely avoid threats en route to and from the rescue. This increases the chance of rescue by 400 percent and the survivability of the rescue package by 300 percent by significantly increasing precision of the rescue forces. 

Gill Robb Wilson Award
Dr. Benjamin S. Lambeth, RAND Corp.
For his insightful book, "The Transformation of American Air Power", a perceptive examination of the evolution of American air power from the time of U.S. involvement in Southeast Asia to the dawning of the 21st century. Among other achievements, Dr. Lambeth also explains the reasons for air power's spectacular performance during the Gulf War and the increasing importance of space in military operations. The Air Force Association salutes his in-depth research and superb presentation which retired General Bill Creech, a former commander of Tactical Air Command, has called "…the best read yet on the air power story."

Hoyt S. Vandenberg Award
Aerospace Basic Course, Maxwell AFB, AL
For creating a highly effective four-week training and education course for newly commissioned officers, inspired by the vision of General Ronald Fogleman, while Chief of Staff. It emphasizes team achievement, and ensures future aerospace leaders are first of all airmen who understand, can articulate, and live by, USAF core values and competencies. Additionally, it produces officers capable of championing aerospace power's unique contributions to joint operations. General Fogleman has said, "You have exceeded my expectations." Students say, "I really feel that I have a much better understanding of my Air Force role." The Air Force Association salutes this testament to the clear vision of one leader and the skill and dedication of others in making it happen. This course will significantly strengthen the culture of the USAF officer corps.

Thomas P. Gerrity Award
Maj. Marcus F. Novak, RAF Lakenheath, UK
Recognized for strong leadership, superior performance, and dedication to duty while assigned as Squadron Maintenance Officer, 493rd Fighter Squadron, and Commander, 48th Component Repair Squadron - the largest such unit in the Air Force - RAF Lakenheath, England. His extraordinary leadership balanced daily and long-range mission requirements to lead the 493rd Squadron in posting an 85.2 percent mission capable rate, far exceeding any other F-15C unit. This was key to the 48th Fighter Wing being named the best maintenance complex in USAFE in the year 2000. Maj. Novak also provided decisive direction to his squadron's implementation of the Centralized Intermediate Repair Facility concept, enabling the expeditious repair of over 311 critical avionics assets and 15 F-100 engines for units deployed to Operations NORTHERN and SOUTHERN WATCH, an unparalleled production rate. His commander calls him a proactive and innovative thinker who inspires better and smarter ways of performing maintenance, just one reason his squadron was named best maintenance squadron in USAFE in 2000. Maj. Novak has rendered outstanding service to the logistics community, the Air Force, and the nation.