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Vandenberg Joint Space Operations Center named best in Strategic Space and Information Operations
VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Joint Space Operations Center here was awarded the 2005 Omaha Trophy for best Strategic Space and Information Operations in US Strategic Command Nov. 20.
Gen. James Cartwright, U.S. Strategic Command commander, was present to congratulate the team and reemphasize the importance of the JSpOC mission.
"We have already proven the JSpOc's value with all of your great work," said General Cartwright. "Now we must move forward and increase its diversity -- diversity meaning we need to add the other services to increase the joint aspect and do it fast, so every civilian and military person knows the way we do business."
The general also spoke of the honor to have the civilian community recognize the importance of the JSpOC mission.
Ken Stinson, U.S. Strategic Command Consultation Committee chairman, presented the award to Col. Stephen Whiting, 614th Space Operations Group commander, and his team for their outstanding performance.
The award is presented annually to assigned units that demonstrate the highest standards of performance. Selection for the award is based on formal evaluations, meritorious achievement, safety and other factors such as community involvement and humanitarian efforts.
"The team conducted a superb performance," Mr. Stinson said. "Thank you for all you do to keep our freedom."
The Omaha Trophy has been awarded by USSTRATCOM since 1971. However, the SSIO category has only been around since 2003.
The citation described the great work of the team and how they stood out amongst the competition:
As the focal point for space operations of United States Strategic Command, Space and Global Strike, the JSpOC distinguished itself by flawlessly executing orbit-satellite control, global ballistic-missile warning, spacelift, and space control of 28 weapon systems operated by over 12,000 people in 155 units at 44 worldwide locations, directly supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom and the Global War on Terror.
It expertly integrated joint operational space effects for the Commander United States Strategic Command's Global Command and Control Systems supporting joint and coalition forces.
Through innovation and determination, they developed a million-dollar Joint Space Operations Center providing United States Strategic Command unmatched strategic and tactical space effects utilizing over $27 billion of space system resources and proved to be a critical force multiplier for the warfighter.
"Not to be presumptuous, but I look forward to your return for the 2006 presentation," said Colonel Whiting.
Maj. Gen. William Shelton, Joint Functional Component Command for Space commander, also had words of congratulations to the team.
"Our people have been doing great work to create and expand the vision for the JSpOC," General Shelton said. "The entire team has done a tremendous job supporting the fight around the globe and they deserve our congratulations."