AF Space Command general garners White Trophy

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WASHINGTON (AFPN) --  The Air Force Association announced this year's winner of the Gen. Thomas D. White USAF Space Trophy this week.

The award, which recognizes "outstanding contribution to the nation's progress in aerospace," goes to Lt. Gen. Michael A. Hamel, Space and Missile Systems Center commander at Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif.

Under General Hamel's leadership, Air Force Space Command has had 49 successful space launches in a row, a feat unparalleled in military history. He also played a major role in the launch of global positioning satellites and creating a constellation used by people worldwide.

General Hamel's strategic vision and deep hands-on expertise across all facets of the space enterprise guided the center to be recognized as the preeminent development and acquisition center for space in the Department of Defense. In addition, he oversaw the advance of global missile warning systems.

Achievements must be of the "highest caliber and reflect the spirit and intent of this high-level award." Previous recipients have included astronauts, major command commanders, Secretaries of the Air Force, and an Air Force Chief of Staff.

General Hamel will receive a bronze plaque at an award ceremony at the AFA Air Force Ball in Beverly Hills, Calif. The original trophy is on display at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.

General White, the awards namesake, was the fourth Air Force chief of staff.

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