Awards
The space community maintains a cadre of some of the best and brightest minds our country has to offer. The National Security Space Association is proud to honor these dedicated individuals for their outstanding achievements in support of the national security space enterprise.
Lifetime Achievement Award
NSSA’s Edward C. "Pete" Aldridge Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to distinguished individuals in recognition of their special contributions towards the preservation of the national security space enterprise. It is awarded annually with respect to the Honorable Edward C. “Pete” Aldridge, whose storied career stretches across several senior industry and government positions. These include Director of the National Reconnaissance Office; Secretary of the Air Force; and Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics.
The Honorable Sue Gordon
2026 Edward C. "Pete" Aldridge Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient
Previous Edward C. "Pete" Aldridge Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients
2025 - General Lester "Dude" L Lyles
2024 - Dr. Lawrence K. Gershwin
2022 - Martin C. "Marty" Faga
Distinguished Service Award
Contributions supporting the advancement of the national security space enterprise come from government, industry and academia. NSSA is pleased to recognize outstanding contributions and achievements by individuals or teams of people. The distinguished service award will be presented periodically throughout the year.
Honoring Congressman Jim Cooper
On November 29, 2022 the National Security Space Security community came together to honor Rep. Jim Cooper for his enduring contributions to the National Security Space Enterprise. Leaders from across the National Security Space community, including Rep. Mike Rogers, Rep. Doug Lamborn, Gen (ret) Jay Raymond, Gen (ret) John Hyten, and other high-ranking officials came together to offer their thanks and congratulations on a job well-done by Rep. Cooper.
Gen (ret) John Hyten's Remarks to Rep. Jim Cooper
Doug Loverro's Remarks to Rep. Jim Cooper