**NESDIS NOMINATIONS**

**Glenn Kevin Rutledge Group**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NESDIS**

**Nomination \# 1**

**The NOMADS Team**

**[List of Nominees:]{.underline}**

Glenn Kevin Rutledge

DOC/NOAA/NESDIS

ZP-1301-IV Physical Scientist

\- NOAA Administrator's Award

Jordan Charles Alpert\
DOC/NOAA/NWS\
GS-1340-14 Meteorologist

Previous Major Awards: None

Wesley Nobuo Ebisuzaki (eh-bee-sue-za-key)

DOC/NOAA/NWS

GS-1340-13 Meteorologist

\- Gold Medal

Steven Charles Hankin\
DOC/NOAA/OAR

GS-1550-14 Computer Scientist\
- Technology Transfer Award

\- OAR Research Employee of the Year

\- NOAA Administrator's Award

\- Bronze Medal

Ronald Jay Stouffer

DOC/NOAA/OAR

ZP-1301-5 Physical Scientist

\- NOAA Administrator's Award\
- 2002 Gold Group Medal\
- 2005 Silver Group Medal

Keith William Dixon\
DOC/NOAA/OAR\
ZP-1340-4 Meteorologist

  - 2005 DOC Silver Group Medal\
  - NOAA/OAR Employee of the Year

**[Nominator:]{.underline}** Thomas R. Karl, NOAA/NESDIS/NCDC Director

**[Category:]{.underline}** Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

Improvements to ocean, climate, and weather models require both U.S. and
International partnerships. NOMADS established a global framework to
address these complex inter-disciplinary sciences.

**I. [Certificate Text ]{.underline}**

For development of the NOAA Operational Model Archive and Distribution
System the first operational US National climate and weather model
archive.

**II. [Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

The NOAA Operational Model Archive and Distribution System (NOMADS) Team
created the first operational U.S. National atmospheric model archive.
Previous to NOMADS the weather forecasts and climate change predictions
generated by NOAA were discarded after use. By fostering national and
international partnerships and through the use of cutting edge
technologies, NOMADS not only retains model output but makes it easy to
access the output for scientific analysis, model improvement, and
improved decision making.

**III. Justification**

**[Section 1 -- Definitions]{.underline}**

US-GEO: The White House Office and Science and Technology Policy (OSTP),
US Group on Earth Observations (US-GEO).

Weather and Climate Models: Numerical models which run on
super-computers and provide information about the weather, and past and
future climate changes.

**[Section 2 -- Award Justification]{.underline}**

[What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?]{.underline}

DOC/NOAA climate and weather forecasts are crucial to commerce and
safety; to seasonal planning of the Nation's agriculture and natural
resources; and to our scientific understanding of climate. Through the
NOMADS Team efforts these model output records, previously lost, are now
retained in our National archives. The technological advances of NOMADS
made such NOAA model outputs accessible by a wide range of customers,
supporting the DOC goal to advance understanding and predict changes in
the Earth's environment to meet America's economic, social, and
environmental needs. These contributions directly address the goals of
the President's Climate Change Research Initiative; the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change; and the US Group on Earth
Observations (US-GEO). Internationally, users include the United Nations
Food and Agriculture Organization, and the World Bank.

[What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal, challenge
or problem?]{.underline}

Prior to NOMADS the loss of model outputs was regarded as unfortunate
but inevitable, due to the volume and complexity of the data. Through
personal initiative, perseverance, many collaborations, and minimal
funding, the NOMADS team overcame many barriers.

[What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?]{.underline}

The NOMADS Team partnered with national and international groups and
implemented promising but unproven approaches to distributing data on
the Internet. This permitted users to extract precise data from a vast
model archive. The NOMADS group added a customer-oriented Web portal and
overcame the risks of applying innovative techniques to address NOAA
operational needs.

[What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?]{.underline}

NOMADS systems serve 10 million downloads per month-more than 1000 times
the typical servers for weather and climate data. For the first time
NOMADS provides specific elements that give the research community the
ability to analyze and improve models. Public use is growing, e.g. Steve
Fossett achieved his world record for the furthest non-stop flight in
aviation history thanks, in part, to NOAA weather technology available
from NOMADS that steered him through the jetstreams.

**[Section 3 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

[How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?]{.underline}

Pilot NOMADS servers were operational in 2003 and by 2006 had tremendous
growth and global recognition.

[What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?]{.underline}

The establishment of the first operational U.S. Weather and Climate
model data archive.

[What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?]{.underline}

The open and distributed communication of weather and climate model
output realized in NOMADS enhances assessment of the models leading to
their improvement and use of the model output in climate change impact
studies for decision support.  Hailed as a prototype for managing and
providing access to large volume data, NOMADS accelerates progress
towards global integrated data management and demonstrates successful
partnership in the Global community and US-GEO.

[Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?]{.underline}

Key to the success of NOMADS is its capacity for Federal and
International Agencies to organize their distributed information
resources into a cohesive presence that is readily usable by public and
private activities in the research, operational, decision support and
educational domains. In a letter to NOAA, Dr. Bryan Lawrence, Director
British Atmospheric Data Center (United Kingdom) states:

"*NOMADS, being led from* \[NOAA\]*, provides a single point of access
to a large number of US initiatives in data sharing. From an
international perspective this is incredibly important, making it
possible for the first time to consider significant international data
sharing without an enormous number of time-consuming and expensive
bilateral meetings to address technical and access issues. From a
technical stand point,* \[the NOMADS Team\] *has managed to bring
together the key players in the US, and for the first time, \[we have\]
a degree of internal US, and US-Europe convergence on data access
technologies.*"

[Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?]{.underline}

NOMADS is the first large scale archive and distribution system for
climate and weather models.

[Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so,
how?]{.underline}

NOMADS access to model data by researchers with subsequent research and
model improvements enables improved weather forecasts and warnings to
the general public and provides more accurate information to decision
makers.

**Paul S. Chang**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NESDIS**

**Nomination \# 2**

**Nominee**

Paul Chang -- NESDIS

Physical Scientist, ZP-1301-IV

Past Awards: 1999 Bronze Individual Award

**Nominator:** Alfred Powell, NESDIS, ORA/STAR Acting Director

**Category**: Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**Significance of accomplishment:** Created the first operational
algorithms that make viable the microwave passive polarimeter for
application to next-generation ocean surface vector wind observations.

**CERTIFICATE TEXT:** For leading the development of ocean wind vector
retrievals from passive polarimetry, enabling successful next-generation
operational observations.

**PROGRAM BOOKLET TEXT:** Paul Chang led the successful development of a
method for obtaining ocean surface wind vectors using satellite passive
polarimetry, providing the first released wind vector retrievals from
WindSat, thus showing, for the first time, that a satellite microwave
polarimetric radiometer was capable of retrieving the ocean surface wind
vector. The success of NOAA's first operational satellite ocean surface
wind vector observations on the next-generation operational
polar-orbiting satellite is directly supported by this development.

**JUSTIFICATION**

**Section 1 -- Definitions**

NOAA: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NASA: National Aeronautics and Space Administration

DoD: Department of Defense

StAR: NOAA National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information
Service (NESDIS) Center for [S]{.underline}a[t]{.underline}ellite
[A]{.underline}pplications and [R]{.underline}esearch

OSWST: Ocean Surface Winds Science Team

SSM/I: Special Sensor Microwave/Imager

TMI: Tropical Rainfall Microwave Mission (TRMM) Microwave Imager

NWS: National Weather Service

NCEP: National Centers for Environmental Prediction

**Section 2 -** **Award Justification**

***What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?***

The critical challenge was proving a concept for obtaining ocean surface
wind vectors using satellite passive polarimetry, a crucial component of
NOAA's next operational satellite system, yet a goal never before
achieved.

***What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge, or problem?***

The success of NOAA's, DoD's, and NASA's investment in the next
generation of satellite remote sensing of ocean surface winds is
directly supported by the development of a methodology for its passive
polarimetric wind vector retrievals, to be tested via WindSat. This new
technique will provide NOAA's first operational satellite ocean surface
wind vector observations, directly addressing crucial requirements for
the NWS, DoD, and the broader user community to provide observations,
forecasts, and warnings to protect public health, safety, and property.

***What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge, or problem?***

Paul Chang created and led the STAR Ocean Surface Winds science team in
establishing a parallel WindSat processing system at STAR; constructing
spatially and temporally co-located WindSat matchup datasets with
QuikSCAT, SSM/I (F-13), TMI, the NWS/NCEP Global Data Assimilation
System (GDAS) analysis, and buoys; developing model functions for
retrieving ocean surface wind vectors and supporting parameters (sea
surface temperature, integrated water vapor, and integrated cloud liquid
water); providing WindSat data to NWS its weather forecast offices; and
assessing operational impact.

***What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?***

NOAA's OSWST's WindSat ocean surface wind vector retrievals were
selected for release as the first wind vector retrievals from WindSat.
This accomplishment showed, for the first time, that a satellite
microwave polarimetric radiometer was capable of retrieving ocean
surface wind vectors. Subsequently, significant improvements have
focused on regions of challenging environmental conditions, such as in
the presence of rain, and low or high wind speeds. This achievement has
made the next-generation instrument, passive polarimetry, viable for one
of its fundamental purposes.

**Section 3 - Additional Information**

***How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?***

This effort commenced in January 2003, with its initial major
achievements released to the scientific community in July 2004. This
effort continues to refine and validate its

accomplishments, as well as prepare for operational implementation.

***What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?***

The short-term impact of this accomplishment is that a passive
polarimeter is now technologically viable for operational
implementation. This accomplishment permits the development of the
operational algorithm and software. WindSat data can now be used in
near-real-time by the NWS to enhance spatial and temporal coverage of
ocean surface wind observations in support of analyses and forecasts.

***What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Departments mission?***

The long-term impact of this accomplishment is that passive polarimetry,
a next-generation technology, is viable for the next NOAA operational
satellite, validating the nation's operational investment in this
technology and providing critical operational environmental observations
in support of NOAA's four mission goals, specifically marine ecosystem
and climatological marine wind fields, weather analyses and forecasts,
and marine wind data and warnings for commerce and transportation.

***Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?***

This accomplishment directly affects many components of the federal
government by providing a crucial component for accurate weather
analyses and prediction by providing accurate surface wind vectors for
ocean areas, approximately 72% of the globe, where there are minimal
other observations. Because NOAA's next-generation operational satellite
addresses joint requirements, this contribution also directly supports
DoD observation requirements, particularly for the Navy.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?***

This accomplishment notably advances both technology and science by
providing a capability for using new technology for measuring
operational observations and, through the use of that technology, being
able to derive additional previously unobtainable measurements of prime
value to science and NOAA mission goals.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how?***

Yes. Customer service is supported through web access to the
developmental data.

**Roger Heymann/Timothy J. Schmit**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NESDIS**

**Nomination \# 3**

**[Nominees:]{.underline}**

Roger W Heymann

National Satellite and Information Service (NESDIS)

Physical Scientist, ZP-1301-IV

Past awards-none

Timothy J. Schmit

National Satellite and Information Service (NESDIS)

Meteorologist, ZP1340-IV

Past awards- Bronze group medal (1999), Silver group medal (2000)

**Nominator:** Gary Davis, NESDIS, OSD Director

**Category**: Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**What is the significance of this accomplishment?**

Current data compression math was insufficient for full use of GOES-R
data. This research doubled compression effectiveness to triple and
quadruple GOES-R data distribution and archive ability.

**I. Certificate citation[:]{.underline}**

For reducing costs and increasing satellite earth science global data
distribution and archiving thru world leading R&D in data compression

**II. Program Booklet citation:**

Mr. Heymann and Mr. Schmit are honored for technical accomplishments
advancing NOAA's satellite earth science data archiving and global
distribution goals. Their work significantly reduces costs and increases
levels of satellite data archiving and distribution for the GOES-R
satellite series. Their R&D achieved unprecedented lossless data
compression levels between 3 and 4 to 1 for three GOES-R sensors.
Compression math reduces data volume for transmission and archiving yet
allows exact restoration for usage. Data compression is essential to
accommodate the GOES-R data stream.

**III. Justification**

**Section 1 - Definitions**

**Compression mathematics -** Mathematics directed at removing
redundancy in data to

reduce its volume.

**Compression (Lossless form)** - Lossless compression means compressed
data can be restored to its original state exactly.

**Compression (near Lossless) -** Some loss of original data is
acceptable with compression.

**CR -** Compression ratio: the amount data was reduced relative to its
original size.

**GEOSS** - "Global Earth Observing System of Systems": a global
observing system to monitor the Earth's environment. Open and low cost
data distribution between nations is a major tenet of the GEOSS program.

**GOES-R -** Next generation geostationary environmental satellites.

**Grating spectrometer sounder** - Hyper-spectral resolution sounder via
a prism-type design.

**Hyperspectral sounder** -- Sounding sensor with greater than 1000
spectral elements.

**Imager** - Instrument taking pictures (infrared and visible) at
certain wavelengths..

**Michelson sounder -** Hyper-spectral resolution instrument based on
interference fringes.

**Multi-spectral Imager** - Sensors of 1-100 spectral elements.

**R&D** -- Research and Development

**Sounder** - sensor with various spectral channels where wavelengths
peak at varying levels of the atmosphere.

**Wavelet mathematics** - Relatively new field of mathematics only some
15-20 years old, similar in importance to the math field as was the
development of the Fourier series. It has emerged as a powerful tool to
compress some types of data, particularly 2 dimensional images. It has
become the foundation of the world for standards to compress pictures.

**WMO --** World Meteorological Organization

**Section 2 - Award Justification**

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

GOES-R is NOAA's next generation geostationary environmental satellite.
It will generate 50 times the data of the satellite it replaces. The new
more capable imager and sounder sensors of the GOES-R series satellites
are expected to have a data volume 3 to 4 times greater than the
satellite's distribution capability. Yet NOAA, through agreements
reached at the Earth Observation Summit, GEOSS, and with the WMO is
committed to a full and low cost satellite data distribution to world
nations. The goal is to make possible full data distribution.

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

Prior to this effort, state of the art data compression had been
developed largely by computer scientists to address 2-dimensional tonal
images. Lossless compression ratio of about 2 appeared to be the limit.
Mr. Heymann and Mr. Schmit recognized the challenge of meeting the data
distribution commitment of very large 3-dimensional data sets.

**What specific actions did the nominee(s) take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

Recognizing the challenge, Mr. Heymann and Mr. Schmit took the
initiative to frame the issue, solicit the resources to address it, and
developed the research plan. They assembled a team of the best thinkers
in the areas of mathematics, atmospheric sciences, and satellite
communications engineering. The team found that existing mathematical
approaches to compression were inadequate to solve the GOES-R
distribution and archive challenge. With the leadership of the nominees,
the team, in a significant paradigm shift, set about an unconstrained
investigation based on an end-to-end signal processing approach. Two
competing teams of experts worked the issue to increase the chances of
success.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

Unprecedented lossless data compression rates between 3 and 4 have been
achieved using innovative mathematical approaches developed by the
research team. These rates are sufficient to meet NOAA's commitment to
the world for full and low cost Satellite data distribution.

**Section 3 - Additional Information**

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

Work began in early 2002; the goal of meeting the GOES-R needs was
achieved in 2005.

The team applied the novel math of adaptive clustering, vector
quantization, and Laplacian pyramids to the data compression demands of
3 principal GOES-R instruments. Two competing teams published papers
showing they had achieved a lossless CR of 3.7 for grating spectrometer
earth science data. A lossless CR of 3 for the multi-spectral imager and
4 for Michelson sounder were achieved. This work has resulted in more
than 50 scientific papers and presentations, 4 refereed articles, and 8
patentable results. While this is an area of ongoing scientific
investigation, meeting the GOES-R requirement and applying a new,
innovative mathematical approach to this area are definitive
accomplishments.

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or department's mission?**

The innovative approach demonstrated by this team can now be applied to
other areas of earth science data compression with commensurate
reduction in costs and increased archive and distribution levels. As a
proof of concept, the results can now be incorporated in the design
architecture of the GOES-R data archiving and data distribution system.

**What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

NOAA will be able to meet its commitment to distribute full satellite
data sets at low cost. The GOES-R system can be designed and implemented
with the knowledge that this aspect of its requirements is achievable.
It further sets the stage for evaluation of considerably greater
compression with "near lossless" conditions.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

The results of this innovative effort are in the open literature and can
be applied wherever beneficial.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

Yes, with many likely patentable. Widely used wavelets mathematics
proved inadequate for compressing earth science data. New math such as
adaptive clustering and vector quantization was needed to achieve the
necessary lossless CR of 3 and greater.

**6. Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how**

Yes: wherever the benefits of large scientific data sets are utilized
for social good, the approach taken by this work is potentially
beneficial.

**LCDR John Adler Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Leadership**

**NESDIS**

**Nomination \# 4**

**Nominees**

LCDR John J. Adler, NESDIS, IPO

LCDR, NOAA Corps Officer

Deputy Chief of Algorithms Division

Past Awards: None

Howard Diamond, NESDIS

Physical Scientist, ZP-1301-V

Past Awards: None

John Jones, NWS

NWS Deputy Assistant Administrator, SES

Past Awards: None

Thomas Karl, NESDIS

National Climatic Data Center Director, SES-1340

Past Awards: 2002 Gold Group Medal

Lewis McCulloch, NESDIS

Management Analyst, ZA-343-III

Past Awards: None

Linda Moodie, NESDIS

International Relations Specialist, ZA-131-V

Past Awards:

2004 Gold Group Medal

2004 Bronze Group Medal

2004 Administrator's Award (Individual)

2000 Bronze Individual Medal

1999 Silver Individual Medal

Peter Steurer, NESDIS

Physical Scientist Administrator, ZP-1301-V

Past Awards: None

Marcia Weaks, NOS

Physical Scientist, GS-1301-14

Past Awards: None

**Nominator:** Brent Smith, NESDIS International & Interagency Affairs
Director

**Category:** Leadership

**What is the significance of this accomplishment?**

The Integrated Earth Observation System will meet our country's need for
quality, global, sustained Earth information as a basis for policy and
decision making in every sector of society.

**I. Certificate Text:** For development of the Strategic Plan for the
U.S. Integrated Earth Observation System and leading 18 federal agencies
to advance the system.

**II. Program Booklet Text:** The US Integrated Earth Observation System
(IEOS) will meet our country's need for high-quality, global, sustained
information on the state of the Earth as a basis for policy and decision
making in every sector of our society. The strategic plan for IEOS,
focused on specific and achievable societal benefits, provides a
framework for prioritizing actions, addressing critical gaps, and
integrating the nation's Earth observation capabilities to address those
imperatives. NOAA serves as co-chair of the US Group on Earth
Observations, charged with developing the IEOS.

**III. Justification:**

**Section 1 -- Definitions**

**Section 2 -- Award Justification**

***What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?***

Enhanced benefit to society from Earth observations depends on
development of a sustained and integrated Earth observation system
underpinned by science and technology. US and foreign partner
investments over the last decade have provided unprecedented views of
the Earth as a set of complex, interacting processes, yet our current
system of observations is fragmented and incomplete. Our national Earth
observation system must be improved in order to realize enhanced
benefits for our people, economy, and planet.

***What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?***

NOAA serves as co-chair of the U.S. Group on Earth Observations (USGEO),
a new standing subcommittee of the White House Committee on Environment
and Natural Resources (CENR). USGEO, composed of 15 federal agencies and
three White House offices, is charged with developing a U.S. Integrated
Earth Observation System (IEOS). The immediate task was to develop a
strategic plan to integrate the government's Earth observation
capabilities to realize enhanced societal benefits.

***What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?***

Nominees formed the U.S. Group on Earth Observations (USGEO) to initiate
the coordination; organized two national fora to develop an integrated
Earth observation strategic plan; and hosted a national forum for
presenting the formal plan to the Nation. Nominees served on the USGEO
Planning and Integration Team to build the plan and to interface with
the private and academic sectors. Also, nominees were themselves the
principal authors of the U.S. Integrated Earth Observation System (IEOS)
Strategic Plan.

***What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?***

In April 2005, the USGEO released the Strategic *Plan for the* *US
Integrated Earth Observation System*, as announced by the Director of
the White House National Science and Technology Council. The NOAA team
spearheaded the interagency effort to draft the plan and develop the
consensus required to gain approval from the CENR. The plan meets USG
and Department objectives by providing a framework for prioritizing
actions and addressing critical gaps while maximizing return on
investments.

**Section 3 -- Additional Information**

***How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment deployed?***

USGEO developed the IEOS Strategic Plan in 18 months. NOAA led the
organization of two public engagement workshops, drawing the public and
private sectors and academia into development of the plan. Lastly, NOAA
led in the conduct of a public Earth Observation Forum in May 2005 at
which the Strategic Plan was presented.

***What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?***

The IEOS Strategic Plan positions the U.S. for immediate contribution to
an international Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS)
including better response to disasters. Strong department leadership was
evident in Secretary Gutierrez leading the U.S. delegation to the Third
Earth Observation Summit to present the IEOS Strategic Plan as the US
contribution to GEOSS.

***What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?***

NOAA-generated Earth information will be fully shared with and used by
the U.S. (IEOS) and the world (GEOSS) to better address societal needs
in nine critical areas. Furthermore, the formation of the USGEO as a
standing White House subcommittee, with NOAA as Co-Chair, provides the
necessary process and infrastructure by which these benefits can be
realized.

***Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?***

The CENR established USGEO to develop and implement a coordinated,
multi-year plan for Earth observations. The OSTP/OMB FY2007 R&D
Priorities memo points to the IEOS Strategic Plan as providing guidance
for Earth observation efforts, and urges agencies to work through the
USGEO to ensure the plan's implementation and continued strong US
leadership in the international community.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation If so, how?***

This accomplishment will result in substantial advancement in
information services, by reducing observational data gaps, improving
data inoperability across the globe, and enabling user access to
critical data never before achieved.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how?***

The biggest challenge to create a truly integrated Earth observing
system is institutional. A stovepipe mentality that funds, acquires, and
promotes single-use observing systems must be overcome if the goals of
the Strategic Plan are to be realized. The USGEO with strong NOAA
leadership is well poised to do this.

**Jane D'Aguanno Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Leadership**

**NESDIS**

**Nomination \# 5**

**Recipients:**

Jane D'Aguanno, NOAA Satellite and Information Service

Physical Scientist, ZP-1301-IV

Past Awards: 2005 Administrator's Award (Individual)

Doug Brauer, NOAA's Satellite and Information Service

International Relations Specialist, ZA-031-IV

Past Awards: 2004 Bronze Group Medals (Mr. Brauer received 3 group
medals in 2004.)

2001 Bronze Group Medals

Michael Hales, NOAA's Satellite and Information Service

International Relations Specialist, ZA-031-IV

Past Awards: 2004 Bronze Group Medal

Jason Kim, NOAA's Satellite and Information Service

Technology Policy Analyst, ZA-1101-IV

Past Awards: None

John Pereira, NOAA's Office of Systems Development

Physical Scientist, ZP-1301-V

Past Awards: 2003 Silver Group Medal

2001 Administrator's Award (Group)

Brent Smith, NOAA's Satellite and Information Service

Director, NESDIS International and Interagency Affairs, ZA-0131-V

Past Awards: 2004 Gold Group Medal

2004 Bronze Group Medals (Mr. Smith received 2 group medals in 2004.)

1999 Silver Group Medal

Glenn Tallia, NOAA General Counsel

Attorney Adviser (General), GS-905-15

Past Awards: 2005 Silver Group Medal

2004 Bronze Group Medals (Mr. Tallia received 2 group medals in 2004.)

2003 Silver Group Medal

2001 Bronze Group Medal

Kay Weston, NOAA's Satellite and Information Service

Supervisory International Relations Specialist, ZA-0131-V

Past Awards: None

Kim Wells, International Trade Administration (DoC/ITA)

International Trade Specialist, GS-1140-14

Past Awards: None

Fred Wentland, National Telecommunications and Information
Administration (DoC/NTIA)

Associate Administrator for Spectrum Management, SES-391
(Telecommunications Series)

Past Awards: None

**Nominator:** Gregory Withee, NESDIS AA

**Category:** Leadership

**What is the significance of this accomplishment?**

Never before has the White House adopted five national security policies
focused on a single sector in the short span of three years.

**I. Certificate Citation**: For shaping the adoption and implementation
of five Presidential-level space policy directives.

**II. Program Booklet Text:** The National Space Policy, promulgated by
President Bush in 2006, provides an overarching framework for previously
concluded NSPD policy documents including: the Commercial Remote Sensing
Space Policy; the Space-Based Positioning, Navigation, and Timing
Policy; the Space Transportation Policy; and the Space Exploration
Policy. One key outcome included in the National Space Policy charges
NOAA to operate civil environmental space-based remote sensing systems
and manage their associated requirements and acquisition process.

**III. Justification**

**Section 1 Definitions**

**Section 2 -- Award Justification:**

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?\
**

The directives that are used to promulgate Presidential decisions on
national security matters are designated National Security Presidential
Directives (NSPDs). Staff from the Department of Commerce and its
agencies walked a very fine line to meet national security requirements
while defending the vital role industry has in providing goods and
services for national security purposes.

**What was the context in which the nominees addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?\
**

The Department/NOAA's policy staff actively developed and negotiated
policy language at high levels with their counterparts in an interagency
forum led by the National Security Council Director of Space Policy.
These discussions were very comprehensive and sometimes turned into
heavy negotiations sessions among agencies and the White House.

**What specific actions did the nominees take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?\
**

Department and agency staff assessed U.S. national security goals in
juxtaposition to various Department and agency goals. Department and
agency staff proposed language that was incorporated into the space
policy documents. The resulting policies support the Department's
mission and equities to the fullest extent, while also addressing USG
concerns regarding U.S. national security.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

Results included approval and implementation of four NSPDs that support
the overarching U.S. National Space Policy. It should be noted that the
Department, and NOAA particularly, spent significant resources to
implement the goals of the U.S. Commercial Remote Sensing Space Policy.
This policy (adopted in 2003) was the first of the four policies that
support the National Space Policy. The Department/NOAA has implemented
numerous recommendations provided by its Federal Advisory Committee on
Commercial Remote Sensing, and has worked extensively on implementation
actions that support the advancement of the U.S. commercial remote
sensing industry.

**Section 3 - Additional Information:**

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

The five NSPDs involving the commercial space sector were adopted over a
period of 3 years. The U.S. National Space Policy is the umbrella policy
for the other four, completing the construction of a new U.S. space
policy framework.

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?\
**

Short term impacts will result from the comprehensive direction provided
by the Administration to shape the Department's priorities for
supporting the commercial space sector. Space is seen by this
Administration as being vital to national security and economy; and U.S.
industry is viewed as a key partner in strengthening U.S. national
security capabilities.

NOAA's responsibilities are specifically noted in the U.S. Space Policy
to include:

-   Operational civil environmental space-based remote sensing systems
    and management of associated requirements and acquisition process

-   Continuing role in civil/military polar-orbiting operational
    environmental sensing system

-   Continuing program of civil geostationary operational environmental
    satellites

-   Continuing work with NASA and other departments/agencies to
    transition mature research and development capabilities to long-term
    operations

**What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?\
**

Long-term impacts include development of a stronger national security
capability while shaping, supporting, and maintaining strong industry
growth in the space sector. This clear direction from the Administration
will help increase U.S. industry's international competitiveness for
space-related goods and services.

The U.S. will continue under this policy to support and promote space by
all nations for peaceful purposes.

NOAA will continue to determine environmental observation requirements
and develop operational systems and other agency capabilities to meet
those requirements.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Departments or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

All five space policies were negotiated within intense interagency
environments under the direction of the National Security Council. They
represent a very strategic framework of priorities and responsibilities
that are delicately balanced among many bureaus/Departments and Federal
agencies.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology or automation? If so, how?**

No

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support. If so, how?**

No

**Fuzhong Weng Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NESDIS**

**Nomination \# 6**

**[NESDIS Silver Medal Group Nomination]{.underline}**

1.  Full Names:

> Dr. Fuzhong Weng, NOAA/NESDIS/STAR
>
> Dr. Changyong Cao, NOAA/NESDIS/STAR
>
> Dr. Tsan Mo, NOAA/NESDIS/STAR
>
> Dr. Xiangqian Wu, NOAA/NESDIS/STAR
>
> Dr. Jerry T. Sullivan, NOAA/NESDIS/STAR
>
> Dr. Thomas Kleespies, NOAA/NESDIS/STAR
>
> Mr. Michael Chalfant, NOAA/NESDIS/STAR
>
> Mr. Anthony Reale, NOAA/NESDIS/STAR
>
> Dr. Alexander Ignatov, NOAA/NESDIS/STAR
>
> Dr. Lawrence E. Flynn, NOAA/NESDIS/STAR

2\. Line Offices: NESDIS/STAR (Center for Satellite Applications and
Research)

3\. Position Title and Grade for each nominee:

Weng, ZP-5 Supervisory Physical Scientist

Cao, ZP-4 Physical Scientist

Mo, ZP-4 Physical Scientist

Wu, ZP-4 Physical Scientist

Sullivan, ZP-4 Physical Scientist

Kleespies, ZP-4 Physical Scientist

Chalfant, ZP-4 Physical Scientist

Reale, ZP-4 Physical Scientist

Ignatov, ZP-4 Physical Scientist

Flynn, ZP-4 Physical Scientist

4\. Past Awards:

(Weng) DOC Gold Group Medal for Data Assimilation Techniques, 2005

NOAA Bronze Group Medal for High Quality Microwave Products, 2004

SPIE Scientific Accomplishment Award, 2002

IPO Spirit of NPOESS Award, 2002

The NOAA David Johnson Award, 2000

(Cao) DOC Silver Group Medal for Intersatellite Calibration, 2005

NOAA Bronze Group Medal, 2003

(Mo) DOC Silver Group Award 1999

NOAA Bronze Group Medals - 2001, 2003

(Kleespies) DOC Silver Medal, 1999

NOAA Bronze Medals, 1998, 2003

NASA Group Achievement Award, 1978

(Chalfant) 2001 Bronze Group Award

1999 Silver Group Award

(Reale) NOAA Silver Medal, 2001

NOAA Bronze Medal, 2000

(Sullivan) DOC Silver Group Medal, 2005

NOAA Bronze Medals, 1995, 2003

(Flynn) EPA Stratospheric Ozone Protection Award 2005

NOAA Bronze Medals, 2001, 2003

IPO Spirit of NPOESS Award, 2002

**[Nominator:]{.underline}** Dr. Alfred M. Powell, Jr., NESDIS/STAR

**[Category]{.underline}**: Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**What is the significance of the accomplishment?**

The team developed an integrated system for calibrating NOAA-18
instruments that led to early delivery of high quality satellite
products and solutions for mitigating the HIRS/4 on-orbit anomaly.

**I. Certification Text**

For developing an integrated system for accurately calibrating NOAA-18
instruments that lead to a high quality of operational satellite
products.

**II. Program Booklet Text**

This team is recognized for developing an integrated system for
accurately calibrating the NOAA-18 instruments, near real-time diagnosis
of instrument on-orbit performance that led to the finding of the root
cause for HIRS/4 long-wave channel anomaly (i.e. instrument high
sensitivity to dynamic disturbances and assembled with a loose lens).
The team also developed advanced algorithms and procedures for
validating products which led to an early delivery of high quality
satellite observations from NOAA-18 for uses in NOAA operational
forecast systems in the 2005 hurricane season.

**III. Justification**

**Section 1: Definitions**

AOD -- Aerosol Optical Depth

ATOVS -- Advanced TIROS Operational Vertical Sounder

AMSU-- Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit

AVHRR -- Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer

Cal/Val -- Calibration and Validation

HIRS -- High Resolution Infrared Radiation Sounder

METOP -- Europe's polar-orbiting satellite dedicated to operational
meteorology

MHS -- Microwave Humidity Sounder

MSPPS -- Microwave Surface Precipitation Product System

NDVI -- Normalized Difference Vegetation Index

NOAA-18 - The 18th of NOAA TIROS series Polar-Orbiting Satellite

NWS -- National Weather Service

OV -- On-orbit Verification

SBUV -- Solar Backscatter Ultra-Violet Radiometer

SST -- Sea Surface Temperature

STAR -- Center for Satellite Applications and Research

TIROS -- Television InfraRed Observational Satellite

TOAST -- Total Ozone Analysis from SBUV and TOVS

UV -- Ultra Violet

**Section 2: Award Justification**

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department's Mission and/or strategic plan?**

The team produced a timely and correct diagnosis of a serious anomaly in
performance of a satellite instrument in orbit, which reduces the risk
of failures on future satellites. Their achievements contribute to
NOAA's goal to assess, predict, and manage the Earth's resources and to
promote environmental stewardship.

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

The team faced three major challenges for NOAA-18 instrument calibration
and product validation: 1. To accurately calibrate all instruments
including new HIRS/4 and MHS, 2. To provide initial demonstration and
assessments of NOAA-18 data for improving numerical weather prediction,
and validate more than 20 environmental data records for transition into
operation, and 3. Provide critical analyses and information to the
multi-agency team for the investigation of the unprecedented HIRS/4
noise anomaly which became critical for finding the loose lens as the
root cause of the anomaly.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

With the team initiative working beyond their performance duties,
NESDIS/STAR, with minimal funding, delivered high quality satellite
observations to users within 45 days (a 50% reduction in latency period)
after satellite launch. Their efforts resulted in an early
implementation of NOAA-18 satellite observations in NOAA weather
forecast systems during the 2005 hurricane season.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

The STAR calibration and validation system for NOAA-18 led to an early
delivery of high quality satellite observations that were assimilated
into NOAA's operational forecast model in the 2005 hurricane season. The
early delivery resulted in an overall saving equivalent to 2.5% of the
total cost of the satellite, or about 5 million dollars. In addition,
the team found the root cause of the instrument performance anomaly, and
provided strategies for reducing the noise in the data and reducing the
risk that the same problem would recur on future satellites.

**Section 3: Additional Information**

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

The integrated calibration and validation system was developed in
2004/2005 and tested on NOAA-18 instruments. Problems were resolved
within 45 days after launch.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

Early delivered satellite observations from NOAA-18 have been
assimilated into NOAA operational forecast model in the 2005 hurricane
season. This contributed to NOAA's objective to increase development,
application, and transition of advanced science and technology to
operations and services in order to achieve its goal to Serve Society's
Needs for Weather and Water Information.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

The calibration of instruments on soon-to-be launched METOP, NOAA-N',
and NPOESS weather satellites will be further enhanced by using our
integrated system and will result in savings of millions of dollars. As
a result of the team's accomplishments, NOAA is better prepared to
provide early delivery of the data to improve operational weather
forecasts.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Departments or other
    federal agencies? If so, how?**

Yes, the NWS uses NOAA-18 satellite data in its Global Forecast System
to produce forecasts. Agencies such as FEMA, FAA, DHS, DOD, state and
local emergency management, national and local media outlets depend on
these forecasts. The improvement in the accuracy of the global forecasts
helps these agencies in their evacuation and other mitigation activities
associated with severe weather events.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology or automation? If so, how?**

Yes, the integrated system was developed for the near real-time trending
of satellite on-orbit performance and the characterization of the
instrument bias, and is a major advancement in providing high quality
satellite data through rigorous end-to-end calibration and validation.
For the first time in the history of the TIROS program, users can
visualize the instrument performance in near real-time and assess its
impact on their products.

-   Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in a
    non-scientific area such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?

Yes, the implementation of the new system for operational satellites
provided a major improvement in customer service; data users can now see
the time series in near real-time to better assess the impact of
instrument performance on the quality of their products.

**Brian Hughes/Thomas Renkevens**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Personal and Professional Excellence**

**NESDIS**

**Nomination \# 7**

**Submitted by OSDPD**

**[Title]{.underline}:** GOES Ingest NOAAPORT Interface (GINI) Data
Processing Back-up System.

**[Nominees]{.underline}:**

Mr. Brian Hughes - NOAA Satellite and Information Service

Office of Satellite Data Processing and Distribution

Satellite Service Division

Meteorologist, ZP-1340-IV

Past Awards: None

Mr. Thomas Renkevens - NOAA Satellite and Information Service

Office of Satellite Development

Physical Scientist, ZP-1301-IV

Past Awards: 2003 Silver Group Award

**[Nominator:]{.underline}** Richard Barazotto, NESDIS, OSDPD Director

**[Category:]{.underline}** Personal and Professional Excellence

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}:**

The team designed a system that eliminated a critical single point of
failure for transmission of NOAA satellite imagery, significantly
enhancing capability to satisfy NOAA mission goal requirements.

**I. [Certificate Text]{.underline}:**

For designing a system to eliminate a critical single point of failure
for NOAA satellite imagery to ensure continuity of mission critical
operations.

**II. [Program Booklet Text]{.underline}:**

The group is honored for implementing an offsite back-up system to
eliminate a critical single point of failure and ensure continuity of
operations for real-time processing and distribution of Geostationary
Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) data. This GOES Ingest
NOAAPORT Interface (GINI) system is part of the NESDIS Critical
Infrastructure Plan and provides satellite imagery to support NOAA
mission goal requirements for environmental satellite information. This
critical data is routinely used by NWS for production of severe weather
forecasts and the protection of life and property.

**III. Justification:**

**Section 1 - Definitions**

BNCF - Backup Network Control Facility

CDA - Command Data Acquisition station

CIP - Critical Infrastructure Protection plan

COOP - Continuity of Operations Plan

GOES - Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite

FB4 - Federal Building #4

GINI - GOES Ingest NOAAPORT Interface system processes and distributes

geostationary satellite image data.

GVAR - GOES VARiable data is real-time direct readout GOES satellite
imagery.

NCF - Network Control Facility

NWS - National Weather Service

NESDIS - NOAA Satellite and Information Service

**Section 2 -- Award Justification**

• **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

The challenge addressed by the team resulted from a NWS/NESDIS study
evaluating NOAA responsiveness during Hurricane Isabelle in September
2003. This study focused on "lessons learned" and issued recommendations
to improve NOAA hurricane and severe weather support activities. It was
determined that an offsite backup capability for the primary GINI system
located in FB4 in Suitland, MD was critical to national security and
NOAA's mission to protect life and property. The reason for this was
GINI had no back up system, yet it provides mission critical satellite
imagery to the NWS.

• **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

Reinforced by the severity of the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season, the
team worked with urgency to design, develop and implement a backup GINI
system that would ensure continuity of operations for GOES satellite
imagery. The GINI system ingests and processes real-time GVAR image and
sounder data into geo-located calibrated images that are transferred to
the NWS telecommunication circuits for distribution to Government users
via the NOAAPORT system.

**• What specific actions did the nominees take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

The action to implement the GINI backup system was closely monitored by
NOAA senior managers due to the high importance placed on implementing
the system in a timely manner. The team developed a system design,
identified resources, selected the site and successfully installed,
tested and implemented into operations the GINI backup system. The team
established and tested failover procedures, adhered to configuration
management practices and ensured network/system security by negotiating
cooperative service agreements between several NOAA organizations. This
work was done without any additional funding.

**• What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

The team eliminated a single point of failure for a data processing
system that provides critically important environmental satellite
information to NWS Field Offices, NWS National Centers for Environmental
Prediction and many other Government agencies responsible for public
safety and the protection of life and property.

**Section 3 - Additional Information**

**• How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?  When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

The team was assigned the task to draft and present a conceptual backup
GINI system design in February 2005. Resources were identified and
management approval was obtained in May 2005. The installation of the
Wallops GINI system was completed in December 2005 with final
implementation scheduled for February 2006.

**• What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission? **

The primary and backup GINI systems provide satellite data that are
critical for NOAA Mission Goals and Programs to meet their mission
objectives and requirements. Users such the NWS Field Offices, National
Hurricane Center and Severe Weather Center are ensured a continuous,
uninterrupted flow of near real-time GOES imagery for use in tropical
storm prediction, flooding and severe weather forecasts.

**• What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

The successful development and deployment of the backup GINI system
represents a first step for planned IT backup operations that improve
the reliability of NOAA data information to customer.

**• Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies?  If so, how?**

The establishment of the backup GINI system ensures the uninterrupted
availability of GOES satellite imagery that is used as a primary data
source for ensuring the accuracy of severe weather forecasts. GVAR data
products are of critical importance to the NOAA Weather and Water
Mission Goal Team, the NWS, and Federal Government agencies charged with
national security, public safety, disaster planning and recovery and
protection of life and property.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation?  If so, how?**

The establishment of the backup GINI system was the first step in
establishing critical infrastructure protection for the delivery of
mission critical GOES satellite imagery.

**• Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
support?  If so, how?**

The backup GINI system improves the consistency and quality of NOAA
customer service by eliminating temporary outages and the loss or delay
of critically important and time sensitive satellite data. Surveys
indicate that GINI image products and their availability are rated the
highest importance and value to user mission goals.

**Keith Mann Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Personal and Professional Excellence**

**NESDIS**

**Nomination \# 8**

**Nominees:**

Mr. Keith Mann -- NESDIS, OSO

GS-2210-13, IT Specialist

Past Awards: None

Mr. Dennis Mailhot -- NESDIS, OSO

GS-1311-IV, Physical Science Technician

Past Awards: None

Mr. Michael Settles -- NESDIS, OSO

ZP-1301-IV, Supervisory Physical Scientist

Past Awards: 2002 Bronze Group Medal

Mr. Albert McMath -- NESDIS, OSO

GS-2210, IT Specialist

Past Awards: 2005 Bronze Group Medal

Mr. Greg Johnson -- NESDIS, OSO

ZP-855-IV, Electronics Engineer

Past Awards: 2004 Bronze Group Medal

Ms. Diane Robinson -- NESDIS, OSO\
GS-2210-IV, IT Specialist

Past Awards: 2004 Bronze Group Medal

Mr. Gary McBrien-- NESDIS, OSO

GS-2210-IV, IT Specialist

Past Awards: 2002 Bronze Group Medal

Mr. Mark Noto -- NESDIS, CIO

ZP-2210-IV, IT Specialist (INFOSEC)

Past Awards: None

Mr. Eric Clemons---NESDIS, OSO

ZP-1301-V, Supervisor Physical Scientist

Past Awards: None

**Nominator:** Kathy Kelly, NESDIS, OSO Director

**Category:** Personal and Professional Excellence

**I. Certificate Text:**

For excellence in management, technical support and teamwork in
developing the first successful Certification and Accreditation package
for NOAA.

**II. Program Booklet Text:**

The group is honored for their efforts in the development of the GOES
Certification and Accreditation (C&A) package. The support and teamwork
demonstrated in the GOES Certification and Accreditation effort is
unparalleled in NOAA. In less than one year, the NOAA/NESDIS team
developed and integrated a C&A package that was to be used for a model
for all Department of Commerce systems. The achievements of this group
constitute an extraordinary contribution of exceptional value in support
of the Departments and NOAA's overall goals.

**III. Justification:**

**Section 1 - Definitions**

**C&A -- Certification and Accreditation**

**CIO -- Chief Information Officer**

**GOES - Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites**

**OIG - Office of Inspector General**

**Section 2 - Award Justification**

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

To serve society's needs for weather and water information. In
particular, the Department's Inspector General determined that
weaknesses in the Certification and Accreditation process merited the
assessment of a Material Weakness. The team led efforts to remove the
basis for this assessment by developing acceptable C&A documentation and
model processes.

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

This model process and package was a full C&A of a highly complex,
national critical system, subject to the scrutiny of the NOAA and DOC
CIOs and the DOC IG. Toward the conclusion of the FY05 C&A campaign, the
Director of IT Security for the DOC CIO said that NESDIS "earned
bragging rights across the Department" for its C&A leadership. A major
portion of that leadership was performed by the GOES C&A team.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

Development of a system security plan and risk assessment documents that
fully addressed the deficiencies noted by the OIG was a critical action
in gaining OIG agreement that this area of the Material Weakness was
properly addressed.

The introduction of new processes into the GOES operational environment
included automated patch management; development of new configuration
management boards and procedures; and the installation of hardware for
IT security monitoring.

After C&A submission, the group supported system audits and tests
conducted by the NOAA NESDIS IT security teams. All of this was
accomplished on an operational National Critical system during one of
the busiest hurricane seasons on record. No data was lost during this
time.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

This effort culminated in the ability to provide the Department of
Commerce a model C &A package that can be applied to other DOC systems.
This effort increased the reliability of systems by: Improving business
continuity and contingency planning and testing; improving individual
accountability and user tracking; and improving system security
management, operational, technical, access, and physical controls.

**Section 3 - Additional Information**

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

The initial kick off meeting was at the NOAA NESDIS headquarters on
November 10, 2004.

Certification test and evaluation for the GOES system was completed on
May 20, 2005.

On May 31, 2005, the GOES C&A package was approved by the NESDIS
Director, (the Designated Approving Authority). Approval was granted
after the successful review package from the OIG.

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

The intense effort and in the development of an acceptable system
security plan and risk assessment processes can be leveraged by other
DOC organizations saving time and money.

**What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

The effort was a seminal effort in the improvement of the C&A process,
and its after-effects will help ensure the security of all DOC IT
systems.

GOES spacecraft will continue in providing this useful data in a secure
manner. Continuity of operations in the event of a site failure is
greatly improved.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

This achievement created the impetus for Department of Commerce efforts
to successfully remove the Material Weakness. By providing a process and
concrete examples of acceptable documentation, other DOC organizations
will be able to develop acceptable packages with an economy of effort.
Application of the process will help ensure DOC IT systems are secure.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

No

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how?**

Prior to development of the package there was no evidence of a C&A
process, nor was there any demonstrated proof that a process could be
developed and implemented to produce acceptable C&A packages. The result
of this effort was a significant advancement in the quality and
acceptability of C&A processes and documentation sufficient to drive
substantive improvements in the security of national critical systems.

**Office of Satellite Operations, Engineering Management Team and Office
of Satellite Data Processing and Distribution, Engineering Management
Team**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NESDIS**

**Nomination \# 9**

OSO/OSDPD Support to Hurricanes Rita and Katrina

**Nominees**

The OSO and OSDPD Operations, Engineering and Management Teams

**Nominators**

Kathleen A. Kelly, Director of Office of Satellite Operations

Richard M. Barazotto, Director of Office of Satellite Data Processing
and Distribution

**Category:** Customer Service

**What is the Significance of this accomplishment?**

The near flawless efforts of the OSO and OSDPD Operations, Engineering
and Management Teams accomplished the collection of critical satellite
environmental data during hurricanes Rita and Katrina.

**Certificate Text:**

For excellence in management and technical support in providing vital
satellite data during the peak of the 2005 hurricane season.

**Program Booklet Text:**

During the 2005 hurricane season, the US experienced a record
twenty-seven tropical systems, of which a record fifteen became
hurricanes. In order to meet the surge in scheduled and unscheduled data
requests, OSO and OSDPD optimized their service, teamwork and ingenuity
in the capture of nearly 100% percent of the satellite data user
requirements.

**Section 1 Definitions**

GOES - Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite

POES -- Polar Operational Environmental Satellite

OSO -- Office of Satellite Operations

OSDPD -- Office of Satellite Data Processing and Distribution

NWS -- National Weather Service

RSO -- Rapid Scan Operations

SOCC -- Satellite Operations Control Center (Suitland, Maryland)

**Section 2 Award Justification**

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

OSO and OSDPD's specific goal was to maximize the collection, processing
and dissemination of NOAA vital satellite environmental data in order to
enhance society's ability to plan, forecast, respond, and prevent loss
of property and lives during this highly active hurricane season

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

During support to hurricanes Rita and Katrina, the nominees provided
99.86% of GOES and POES data to the National Weather Service and other
key government agencies. This was significantly above our nominal
operational standard of 98.5%.

The nominees provided unprecedented number of images from GOES
satellites during the peak of the hurricane season. At the request of
the NWS, OSO and OSDPD provided images every 5 minutes to provide more
precise monitoring of hurricane movement and severe storm development.
To accomplish this request the Team excelled by optimization of staff
and ground resources, development of new operations procedures, and
teamwork. This effort enabled NWS to provide accurate hurricane,
tornado, and flood warnings in the effected areas. NOAA's satellites
provide over 90% of the data used in NWS prediction models.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

The Team came together and increased their performance by utilizing
effective processes, first time procedures and teamwork to ensure the
delivery of all requested data during these critical periods of National
need.

These intense spacecraft and data processing operational activities were
successfully planned and flawlessly executed without interruption to
user requests.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

In order to meet these increased data requests and ensure that all
requirements were met, the nominees were able to effectively utilize
existing resources Their professionalism was exhibited in the percentage
of data delivery, while keeping management informed at all times of
operational systems status (staff and ground systems).

**Section 3 -- Additional Information**

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

Hurricane Katrina support efforts were from 23 to 30, August 2005.
Hurricane Rita support activities were from 18 to 25 September 2005.

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

By successfully obtaining this data, NOAA was able to provide better
forecasting and improved products to its Customers in this time of
National need.

**What is the short-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

The data will be utilized by forecasters in determining future forecasts
of hurricane activity. These forecasts will come in the form of
seasonal, pre-season and mid-season outlooks. These forecasts will be
beneficial in preventing serve damage to property and loss of life.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

The data affects other bureaus/line offices within NOAA that exploit and
utilize this data for prediction and post analysis. Successfully
providing all the nominal and additional data allowed Federal emergency
activities to be planned around the hurricane activities and optimized
at all Federal levels.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

N/A

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how**

The nominees improved customer service during the 2005 hurricane season
by providing additional products to NWS and other government agencies.

**Joseph Stinus Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NESDIS**

**Nomination \# 10**

**[Nominees]{.underline}:** Joseph Stinus

NOAA, NESDIS, NODC, NCDDC

Director, NCDDC, ZP-1301-V

Past Awards: None

> Russell H. Beard

NOAA, NESDIS, NODC, NCDDC

Oceanographer, ZP-1360-IV

Past Awards: None

Elizabeth Schenck-Gardner

NOAA, NESDIS, NODC, NCDDC

Oceanographer, ZP-1360-IV

Past Awards: None

Bradlee Nunn

NOAA, NESDIS, NODC, NCDDC

Computer Scientist, ZP-1550-III

Past Awards: None

Mary O'Chery

NOAA, NESDIS, NODC, NCDDC

Administrative Officer, ZA-341-III

Past Awards: None

Susan Starke

NOAA, NESDIS, NODC, NCDDC

IT Specialist, ZP-2210-IV

Past Awards: None

Sharon Mesick

NOAA, NESDIS, NODC, NCDDC

Geographer, ZP-150-III

Past Awards: None

Eric Roby

NOAA, NESDIS, NODC, NCDDC

IT Specialist, ZP-2210-III

Past Awards: None

> Julie Bosch

NOAA, NESDIS, NODC, NCDDC

Technical Information Specialist, ZA-1412-III

Past Awards: None

**[Line Office]{.underline}:** National Coastal Data Development Center

National Oceanographic Data Center

National Environmental Satellite, Data and Information Service

**[Location of NCDDC]{.underline}**: Stennis Space Center, MS

**[Nominator]{.underline}:** Zdenka Willis

Director, National Oceanographic Data Center

**[Category]{.underline}**: Customer Service

**[Significance of this accomplishment]{.underline}**:

In the days following Hurricane Katrina, NCDDC became operational in an
extremely short time and provided significant support to Local, State
and Federal agencies during extreme conditions.

**I. [Certificate Text]{.underline}**: For extraordinary service
exhibited during the post Hurricane Katrina Recovery of the National
Coastal Data Development Center (NCDDC).

**II. [Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**:

Through dedication and sacrifice, NCDDC was back in service days after
Katrina. They provided outstanding service to NOAA, FEMA, MDMR, MS and
LA coastal communities. They recognized a need for a Katrina web site to
link/access imagery, data, maps, and models to assist recovery programs
(ex. FEMA). Within 60 days the website had over 1.5 million hits. MDMR
lost everything due to the storm surge. Coordinating with NESDIS, NCDDC
ordered new equipment, maintained their website and arranged for their
archive recovery. In addition, NCDDC assisted the recovery of others who
had lost their homes.

**III. [Justification]{.underline}**:

**[Section 1]{.underline} -- Definitions**

COOP: Continuity Of Operations Program

EPA: Environmental Protection Agency

FEMA: Federal Emergency Management Agency

IT: Information Technology

LA: Louisiana

MEMA: Mississippi Emergency Management Agency

MS: Mississippi

MDMR: Mississippi Department of Marine Resources

NASA: National Aeronautics and Space Administration

NESDIS: National Environmental Satellite Data and Information Services

NCDDC: National Coastal Data Development Center

NOAA: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration

NRL: Naval Research Laboratory

NAVOCEANO: Naval Oceanographic Office

**[Section 2]{.underline} -- Award Justification**

***What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?***

Minimize NCDDC's down time after the destruction caused by Hurricane
Katrina. Establish a base of operations to allow recovery of severely
damaged ecosystem management activities and allow other federal, state
and local recovery activities to use our capabilities, facilities and
staff.

***What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?***

Shortly after Katrina, the team provided a staff head count and assessed
the damage to the facility. Once the Center was stabilized, a plan to
assist other state and federal activities was developed. The next phase
of action was organizing work crews to assist employees who had lost
their homes to recover any salvageable property and gut their flooded
homes.

***What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?***

Restore power and LAN capability to allow staff to return to duty.
Contacted MEMA and MDMR to determine how NCDDC could support the local
recovery process. Established a plan to replace MDMR's damaged
equipment. Secured funding and purchased the equipment. Worked with MDMR
to receive/setup the equipment. Designed, built and brought online a
"Katrina" web site for post Katrina imagery, data and models. Gathered
data from NOAA, NASA, EPA, FEMA, Navy and state agencies and prepared
search tools, metadata and Geospatial data layers. Within 60 days 1.5
million users had visited the site.

***What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?***

NCDDC was up in a matter of days after surviving the worst national
catastrophic event in history. The Center supported federal, state and
local agencies with their recovery. They assisted fellow employees and
their families with recovery of personal property and restoration of
homes. MDMR was back up and running within weeks using NOAA IT equipment
which allowed them to conduct ecosystem assessment and recovery
programs. The Katrina website helped numerous citizens recover their
property, locate boats, determine best transportation routes, access
damage to homes, businesses and environment. NCDDC was there when the
taxpayer needed coastal data and information and actively assisted with
the restoration of homes and coastal ecosystem.

**[Section 3 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

***How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?***

The Center was back on line in days. Providing equipment to MDMR took
weeks. The Katrina site was completed in a few months. Work on homes
started immediately and continued for months.

***What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?***

NCDDC benefited COOP/Homeland Security and assisted ecosystem
monitoring/restoration programs within EPA, NOAA, and MDMR.
Relationships with fed, state and universities strengthened due to
NCDDC's ability to deliver useful coastal data and information. NOAA's
credibility and reliability were enhanced.

***What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?***

NCDDC\'s support to MDMR and work with FEMA, NASA & NRL to build the
Katrina web page will result in better preparation and post restoration
for future hurricane seasons. NCDDC\'s relationship with the community,
state and federal agencies, as a \"one stop\" coastal data and
information provider will grow due to proven reliability. NOAA was there
when the need for information was greatest.

***Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?***

NOAA was able to help MDMR become operational. The Katrina page assisted
FEMA and MEMA to link/post useful recovery data, including imagery to
locate grounded boats. Relationships with EPA GOM Program, NASA/Stennis
Earth Science Division, NRL and NAVOCEANO were enhanced by collaboration
in sharing coastal ecosystem data. NCDDC quickly made model output, data
and imagery from these activities available to the public through web
access.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how*?**

The Katrina page resulted in a geospatial tool creation allowing merger
of different imagery and data types in a map environment. The user typed
in a street address and viewed associated imagery/data. This was an
enhancement to the raw imagery that was originally posted and required
time consuming searches to find the desired site. A surge model/imagery
display was developed depicting flood surge and accessible statistics.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how?***

NOAA/NCDDC connected with the community and delivered data and
information requests. The Katrina page was a public service success and
resulted in numerous requests. NCDDC was recognized as a reliable/unique
asset by the community and fellow state/fed agencies.

## **NMAO Nominations**

## **Emile "Todd" Wilson Group**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Heroism**

**NMAO**

**Nomination \# 11**

**Nominees**

Emile "Todd" Wilson ("Emile" is pronounced eh-MEEL)

Vernon "Tom" Swiger

Mondle "Tim" Burrell

**Major Line or Staff Office of Each Nominee**

All nominees -- NMAO

**Position Title and Grade**

Emile Wilson -- Lead Fisherman, WM-9927-13

Vernon Swiger -- Electronics Technician (Rotating), GS-0856-11

Mondle Burrell -- Engineering Technician, GS-0802-12

**Past Awards**

Emile Wilson -- None

Vernon Swiger -- None

Mondle Burrell -- None

**Nominator's name and major Line/Staff Office**

LT Jeremy Adams, NOAA

Commanding Officer, NOAA Ship OREGON II

NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations

Mr. Francis J. Colohan

Chief, Electronics Engineering Division, Marine Operations Center

NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations

**What is the significance of this accomplishment?**

The quick, decisive, and heroic action during the waning hours of
Hurricane Katrina saved NOAA Ship OREGON II from breaking free of her
moorings, going adrift, and becoming a casualty of the storm.

**I.** **Certificate Text**

For heroic acts in the waning hours of Hurricane Katrina that ensured
the NOAA Ship OREGON II remained secured at her mooring. *(128
characters)*

**II. Program Booklet Text**

On August 29, 2005 Hurricane Katrina nearly tore NOAA Ship OREGON II
from her moorings on the east bank of the Pascagoula River. As Katrina
moved inland and surge waters began to recede, OREGON II was tenuously
held to the dock by one mooring line. Lead Fisherman Emile "Todd"
Wilson, Rotating Electronics Technician Vernon "Tom" Swiger, and
Engineering Technician Mondle "Tim" Burrel met at the dock and
immediately sprung into action to avert a catastrophe. The quick action
and heroic conduct of these three persons prevented the OREGON II from
becoming a casualty of Katrina's wrath.

*(590 characters)*

**III. Justification**

[Section 1. Definitions]{.underline}

Heaving Line: a length of small diameter line, usually with a weight
tied to one end, and the other end tied to a mooring line. The heaving
line is used to assist with passing the mooring line to a dock.

Pad eye: A loop shaped fitting attached to the deck and used to secure a
line to some part of the ship.

Scupper: any opening through the bulwarks to allow water to run off a
deck and back to the sea.

Storm Line: a heavy duty rope of extra long length used to secure a ship
to the dock during bad weather.

[Section 2. Award Justification]{.underline}

*• What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?*

On August 28^th^, 2006 as Hurricane Katrina bore down on the Gulf Coast,
the crew of the NOAA ship OREGON II, tied up alongside the pier in
Pascagoula, MS, was ordered to abandon ship and find other shelter in
which to ride out this major hurricane.

As this ferocious storm approached, the OREGON II was thrashed about by
severe winds and waves, breaking mooring lines and leaving just one line
to secure the ship to the pier. This precarious situation surely would
have ended in disaster for the ship had it not been for the actions of
three crew members. *(555 characters)*

*• What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?*

Facing great personal peril, two nominees boarded the ship and one
remained on the pier to handle lines through surging tidewaters and
storm-forced winds. The three were able to piece together enough parted
lines to re-secure the ship and avert a possible collision with the
other pier-side NOAA ship, the GORDON GUNTER, or the nearby railroad
bridge.

*(353 characters)*

*• What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?*

Lead Fisherman (LF) Wilson left is family and ailing mother's bedside to
check the condition of the ship in the midst of the approaching
Hurricane Katrina. Reaching the pier, he found the surge waters
impassible. Returning an hour later, he was able to reach the ship and
climb aboard using pad eyes and hull fittings for footholds and a
scupper for a hand hold. Once aboard the dark ship he gathered a
flashlight and heaving line, and donned a lifevest.

Rotating Electronics Technician (RET) Swiger and Engineering Technician
(ET) Burrell arrived shortly after LF Wilson. ET Burrell climbed aboard
ship to assist LF Wilson with salvaging enough line to secure the ship
while RET Swiger remained ashore to handle the fabricated lines and
secure them to the pier.

*(780 characters)*

*• What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?*

In less than two hours, the selfless and heroic actions of LF Wilson, ET
Burrell and ET swiger secured OREGON II and averted a certain disaster
for the ship. Of the twelve total storm mooring lines used to secure the
ship, only one survived the wrath of Hurricane Katrina.

*(273 characters -- 1961 characters total)*

[Section 3 -- Additional Information]{.underline}

*• How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?*

This event occurred on April 28, 2006 in the hours just prior to
Hurricane Katrina's landfall.

*(101 characters)*

*• What is the short-term impact (1-2) years of the accomplishment on
the bureau/or Department's mission.*

The OREGON II was saved from imminent severe damage due to the impending
hurricane. Some damage occurred pier-side but was able to be repaired
relatively quickly in time for the SEAMAP Groundfish Survey in support
of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS).

*(263 characters)*

*• What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?*

The OREGON II is a strategic tool used by NOAA to maximize U.S.
competitiveness and enable economic growth for the American Fisheries
Industry. It is one of the busiest ships in the NOAA fleet with 243 sea
days scheduled for FY06. A severely damaged or lost OREGON II without a
viable replacement online would have greatly hindered the stewardship
responsibilities and goals of NMFS, NOAA and DOC for years to come.

*(417 characters)*

*• Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Departments or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?*

Maintaining the viability of the OREGON II ensured that the critical
role this ship plays in helping NMFS to maintain cooperative
partnerships with the many marine fisheries conservation offices on the
state, interregional and national levels will be sufficiently supported
to further the goals of all involved. *(311 characters)*

*• Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology or automation? If so, how?*

N/A

• *Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how?*

The extraordinary efforts of these nominees in securing and safe
guarding their ship resets the bar for customer service and is in the
finest maritime traditions of the Agency, the Department and the
Country.

*(208 characters -- 1300 total)*

**Aircraft Operations Center**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Personal and Professional Excellence**

**NMAO**

**Nomination \# 12**

***What is the significance of this accomplishment? (200 characters)***

NOAA's Aircraft Operations Center doubled its annual Hurricane flights
in 2005, provided 7000 Katrina damage photos in 7 days, and delivered
life saving supplies to NOAA teammates and facilities.

**I.** Certificate Text: In recognition of the Aircraft Operations
Center's outstanding effort during the 2005 Hurricane season and after
Hurricane Katrina landfall.

**II**. Program Booklet Text: During the Hurricane Season of 2005, the
NOAA Aircraft Operations Center (AOC) performed flawlessly, flying 123
Hurricane missions including post Hurricane Katrina flights. During the
same period, NOAA's Citation aircraft took over 7000 photos in 7 days
following Katrina's landfall which allowed the public to download over 5
million photos of the affected area. NOAA's helicopter crew delivered
life saving supplies to both NOAA personnel and facilities in
Pascagoula, MS including the NOAA ships Gordon Gunter and Oregon II as
well as the National Data Buoy Center in Stennis, MS.

**III.** Justification

**Section 1** **-- Definition of Terms**

AOC \-- Aircraft Operations Center

Hurricane Reconnaissance -- aircraft missions flown into tropical
cyclones used to document current conditions and location of a hurricane
for the purposes of providing warnings to the public. Missions are
tasked by NOAA's National Hurricane Center in Miami, Florida.

Hurricane Research -- aircraft missions flown into the tropical cyclone
environment for purposes of data collection used in studies to interpret
future track forecast improvements, intensity forecast improvements, or
other information. Missions are conducted in conjunction with NOAA's
Hurricane Research Division in Miami, Florida.

NDBC \-- the National Data Buoy Center in Stennis, MS.

NHC -- the National Hurricane Center

RSD \-- the NOAA National Ocean Service Remote Sensing Division

# Section II -- Justification

• *What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?*

NOAA AOC's capabilities were tested in its hurricane reconnaissance
mission during the 2005 Hurricane Season which spawned a record 27
storms, well above seasonal forecasts resulting in the most active
hurricane season on record.

The post-Katrina Gulf Coast damage assessment was initially unknown
while many NOAA facilities were caught in the swath of destruction and
left in dire need of supplies and immediate support.

*(364 characters)*

• *What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?*

AOC flawlessly performed its mission requirements of providing
time-critical storm data to the National Hurricane Center forecasters
despite the demanding pace.

In conjunction with the RSD, AOC's remote-sensing Citation aircraft
captured over 8000 high-resolution photos of the devastated Gulf Coast
region within days of Hurricane Katrina making landfall.

Concurrently, NOAA's helicopter and crew delivered water, generators,
medical supplies, and other life saving materials to the NOAA ships
Gordon Gunter and Oregon II, and the Fisheries Lab in Pascagoula, MS, as
well as the NDBC in Stennis, MS.

*(595 characters)*

• *What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?*

AOC delivered a 97% accomplishment rate of this time-critical mission to
the NHC, while nearly [doubling]{.underline} the number of hours, and
missions into tropical cyclones from 2004.

Professional and dedicated personnel captured, processed and posted the
damage assessment photography to the worldwide web within 24 hours of
capture. This data was used extensively by emergency responders.

Helicopter crews assisted in tide station repair, Hazardous material
assessment for the USCG Pollution, and provided supplies to NOAA
facilities, employees and their families without clean water and
shelter.

*(515 characters)*

*• What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?*

The hurricane landfall forecasts and evacuation warnings given to
millions of U.S citizens minimizing loss of life during an unprecedented
hurricane season.

Downloads of 5 million photos per day with a total 27 terabytes of data
delivered to the public within 7 days of the storm landfall enabling
real time decision-making by emergency managers.

Working from remote camps with little or no support, the helicopter
crews provided for the most basic needs of our team members and families
in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

*(524 characters -- 1998 total characters in section)*

Additional Information:

• *How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?*

During the 2005 Hurricane Season, particularly during and after
Hurricane Katrina.

*(82 characters)*

*• What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?*

Showcased the capabilities of AOC during times of national duress which
caught the attention of Congress and helped to justify \$54.6M in
Hurricane Supplemental Funding for additional assets to augment critical
NOAA missions.

*(224 characters)*

*• What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?*

These accomplishments will allow NOAA to realize greater efficiencies in
both the Hurricane Reconnaissance/Research missions and the
post-hurricane damage assessment missions. This will result in more
accurate hurricane track and intensity forecasts, as well as a greater
national ability to utilize the critical data from these missions and
better assist emergency managers in responding to storm-damaged areas.

*(413 characters)*

*• Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Departments or other
Federal agencies?*

NHC products are used by DOD, DHS, DOT and DA, as well as federal,
regional and local emergency responders to determine evacuation areas
and routes, impact areas, damage assessment and rescue operations.

*(203 characters)*

• *Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?*

As evidence of the extraordinary effort by the Aircraft Operations
Center during 2005, the following flight summaries provide tangible,
objective data. AOC has not increased the number of hurricane aircraft
or manning during the measured period.

Flight Hours supporting Hurricanes for AOC and number of hurricane
flights each season, respectively:

2000 -- 181, 26

2001 -- 240, 31

2002 -- 376, 54

2003 -- 292, 43

2004 -- 487, 67

2005 -- 892, 123

Previous Awards received by the Aircraft Operations Center:

March, 2006 - NOAA Bronze Medal for support provided during 2004
hurricane season.

March 2005 - Richard Hagemeyer Award from the 59th Interdepartmental

Hurricane Conference, OFCM

March 2005 - National Hurricane Conference Outstanding Achievement

Award for Meteorology.

November 2004 - Unit Citation for 2004 Hurricane season.

The NOAA Aircraft Operations Center reports to NOAA's Office of Marine
and Aviation Operations in Silver Spring, Maryland.

*(935 characters -- 1857 Total)*

**NMFS NOMINATIONS**

**Vera Trainer**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 13**

**[Nominee]{.underline}**

Vera Trainer

NOAA Fisheries Service, Northwest Fisheries Science Center

Supervisory Research Oceanographer

ZP 1360-04-02

Past Awards: Department Bronze Medal Group Award (2003)

**[Category]{.underline}**

Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**[Nominator]{.underline}**

William T. Hogarth, Ph.D

Assistant Administrator, Fisheries

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

Dr. Trainer established a research and monitoring program for early
warning of harmful algal blooms that reduces economic loss to US coastal
fisheries and is being copied on the Russian Pacific Coast.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For establishing an internationally recognized research and monitoring
program for early warning of harmful algal bloom events.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

Dr. Trainer created a monitoring program for harmful algal blooms (HAB)
that now is funded from fees collected by Washington State for
recreational licenses. She strengthened collaborations between
Department, state, and tribal partners to develop an early-warning
system, using advanced technologies, for transfer to Washington state
managers. Reduced time

and area closures saved Washington coastal fisheries \$3 million each
year during bloom events in 2001 and 2003--2005. The HAB program is
serving as a template for one in Oregon and the first-ever HAB
monitoring program on a Russian coast.

**Justification**

**[Section 2 - Definitions]{.underline}**

HAB = harmful algal bloom

HARRNESS = Harmful Algal Research and Response National Environmental
Science Strategy

MERHAB = Monitoring and Event Response to Harmful Algal Blooms

ORHAB = Olympic Region Harmful Algal Bloom partnership

**[Section 3 -- Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

1.  **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
    Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

> To protect, restore, and manage the use of coastal and ocean resources
> (Pacific razor clams and Dungeness crabs) through ecosystem-based
> management.

2.  **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> Toxins from harmful algal blooms can be retained by shellfish, thereby
> reducing their availability to tribal, recreational, and commercial
> consumers, and endangering public health.

3.  **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> Dr. Trainer led a diverse group in conducting the research and then
> operationalizing an early-warning system using advanced technologies.
> She strengthened collaborations within NOAA and with state, academic,
> and tribal partners, and successfully transferred technologies to
> state managers for routine use.

4.  **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

> Dr. Trainer's efforts resulted in an efficient monitoring program for
> harmful algal blooms that was transferred to Washington State agencies
> and Tribes. By enabling selective beach openings during bloom events
> in 2001 and 2003--2005, Washington coastal fisheries saved at least
> \$3 million each year during those years.

**[Section 4 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

1.  **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?** Five years.

    **When was the accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

> The optimized Olympic Region Harmful Algal Bloom partnership (ORHAB)
> monitoring program was transferred to Washington State in summer 2005
> after 5 years of federal funding from the Department's Center for
> Sponsored Coastal Ocean Research, under the National Oceanic and
> Atmospheric Administration. This program now receives stable funding
> from Washington State via a fee collected for recreational licenses,
> which was established based on the findings of Dr. Trainer's research.

2.  **What is the short-term impact (1--2 years) of the accomplishment
    on NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> The harvest of shellfish is managed using cost-effective, accurate
> methods that will allow for the restoration of fisheries harvest along
> the outer coast of Washington State.

3.  **What is the long-term impact (3--5 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> The ORHAB data set will help identify how oceanographic and climate
> processes affect the dynamics of coastal phytoplankton species.

4.  **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

> The Monitoring and Event Response to Harmful Algal Blooms (MERHAB)
> competitive research program (approximately \$2 million available
> annually) is working to reproduce elements found in ORHAB (e.g.,
> coordination between scientists and managers, serving as a test bed
> for new technologies, effective communications/outreach, garnering
> sustainable funding to make the research operational) in other
> programs around the nation. ORHAB is included in *Harmful Algal
> Research and Response: A National Environmental Science Strategy
> 2005--2015* (HARRNESS) as an example program for prevention, control,
> and mitigation of HABs. ORHAB was used as a template for developing
> HAB monitoring programs in Oregon and for a proposal to develop the
> first-ever monitoring program for HABs on the east coast of Russia
> (Kamchatka Peninsula) in 2005--2006.
>
> **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
> technology, or automation?**
>
> ORHAB greatly reduced the number of shellfish samples needed for
> analysis by the Washington Department of Health, and thereby, created
> greater confidence in opening beaches in a timely fashion for
> shellfish harvest.

5.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

> ORHAB generated higher public satisfaction with and confidence in
> recreational clam digging on Washington State's outer coastal beaches.

**William Richards Group**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 14**

**[Nominees]{.underline}**

William Richards, Ph.D., Research Fishery Biologist, GS-15

NOAA Fisheries, Southeast Fisheries Science Center

> Silver Medal (1985)
>
> Distinguished Career Award (2003)

James G. Ditty, Ph.D., Research Fishery Biologist, ZP 3

NOAA Fisheries, Southeast Fisheries Science Center

Joanne Lyczkowski-Shultz, Ph.D., Research Fishery Biologist, ZP 4

NOAA Fisheries, Southeast Fisheries Science Center

Larry Massey, Ph.D., Operations Research Analyst, ZP-4

NOAA Fisheries, Southeast Fisheries Science Center

Jack C. Javech, Scientific Illustrator, NOAA-Fisheries, GS-11

NOAA Fisheries, Southeast Fisheries Science Center

**[Category]{.underline}** Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**[Nominator]{.underline}**

William T. Hogarth, Ph.D

Assistant Administrator, Fisheries

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

The Team, working with 70 international scientists, enhanced sustainable
fisheries by publishing previously unknown data identifying larvae that
look different from the economically important adults.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For working with 70 international scientists to publish an extensive
guide on economically important fish larvae of the western central N.
Atlantic.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

The Team, working with 70 international scientists, enhanced sustainable
fisheries by publishing previously unknown data identifying larvae that
look different from their commercially and recreationally important
adult forms. The guide, *Early Stages of Atlantic Fishes: An
Identification Guide for the Western Central North Atlantic,* covers
2,285 species found in territorial waters of 40 nations. This early life
history data is critical to predicting abundance of year classes at the
time of harvest and potential impacts of natural and human-induced
environmental changes on fish populations.

**Justification**

**[Section 2 - Definitions]{.underline}**

**Early Life History (ELH) --** the period from fertilized egg to
juvenile, when the fish is able to control its own movements and closely
resembles the adult.

**Year Class** -- the fish spawned in a particular year.

**[Section 3 -- Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

1.  **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
    Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

Understanding the ELH of fishes is fundamental to fishery science and
management, as it is needed for predicting the abundance of year classes
at the time they are harvested and for evaluating the potential impact
of both natural and human-induced environmental changes on fish
populations. The fundamental challenge for ELH studies is that most fish
larvae do not resemble the adults and are therefore difficult to
identify. For this reason, ELH studies are rare.

2.  **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

The waters of the western central North Atlantic are biologically
diverse, with over 2,200 marine fish species. Existing information for
identifying early life stages in this area was widely scattered and
poorly known, and guidelines did not exist for identifying many species.
Furthermore, the identification of larval fishes requires highly
detailed, graphic and distinguishing scientific descriptions.

3.  **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

The Team thoroughly gathered existing published ELH information;
conducted voluminous new and original research on ELH; determined
specific identifying characteristics for each species; wrote much of the
treatise; prepared over 600 original pen-and-ink drawings of specimens;
assembled and supervised more than 70 leading scientists worldwide;
established an online database for organizing, communicating, and
reviewing this information worldwide in a variety of formats (e.g.,
textual descriptions of families and line art illustrations); and edited
all the content. In addition to Department scientists, experts
participated from other federal and state agencies, academia, and
non-governmental organizations, as well as international agencies and
organizations.

4.  **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

A widely and highly regarded masterwork, *Early Stages of Atlantic
Fishes* presents detailed scientific ELH information for 2,285 species.
This guide directly advances new research, previously hindered due to
little information on early stages, which will result in the delivery of
new and urgently needed scientific advice to fishery managers.

**[Section 4 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

1.  **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?**

*Early Stages of Atlantic Fishes* represents the culmination of the
Team's consistent, collaborative efforts with 70 scientists and experts
worldwide over 5 years.

**When was the accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

The volumes were published in August 2005.

2.  **What is the short-term impact (1--2 years) of the accomplishment
    on NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

This body of knowledge serves as an immediate scientific reference that
will enhance the caliber of data and advice delivered by the
Department's scientists to managers. This work also advances the
international research and management of marine resources.

3.  **What is the long-term impact (3--5 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

This collection of knowledge will serve as a valuable research reference
for many years to come, and will form the basis for ELH studies for the
next several decades. Although it will be supplemented by various
research papers, it is unlikely that this work will be revised for
another 20 years.

4.  **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

*Early Stages of Atlantic Fishes* is of great utility to Federal
scientists, including fishery and marine biologists, oceanographers,
ecologists and environmental scientists, who provide advice to marine
and coastal resource managers. The ability to identify larvae, allows
scientists to predict future abundance; and assess human-induced and
environmental impacts on western central North Atlantic species, thereby
enabling managers to improve the conservation and management of these
invaluable resources.

5.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation?**

This work presents the most up-to-date and scientifically detailed
information on ELH stages of fishes from the western central North
Atlantic. Because of the large number of species covered and the level
of detail provided, no other similar work compares in breadth, depth and
completeness of information.

6.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

    N/A

**NOAA Fisheries Service: National Seafood Inspection Lab, et al**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Personal and Professional Excellence**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 15**

**[Organizations]{.underline}**

NOAA Fisheries Service

National Seafood Inspection Laboratory

Southeast Fisheries Science Center-Mississippi Laboratories

NOAA Corporate Services

Office of the Chief Administrative Officer, Project Planning and
Management Division

NOAA Office of Marine and Aviation Operations

**[Category]{.underline}**

> Personal and Professional Excellence

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

Despite vast destruction to personal residences, a unified NOAA Team
resumed severely disrupted NOAA Fisheries Service's Northern Gulf of
Mexico operations within 10 days of Hurricane Katrina.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For expeditiously re-establishing NOAA Fisheries Service's Northern Gulf
of Mexico operations, under formidable post-hurricane Katrina
conditions.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

Quickly resuming severely disrupted NOAA Fisheries Service's Northern
Gulf of Mexico operations, this One-NOAA Team accounted for employees
and ensured temporary accommodations; secured on-site hazardous
materials; retrieved critical data, specimens and equipment; and
accelerated procurement of vital supplies and services. The Team flew
aircraft to assess hurricane impacts; swiftly resumed key survey
cruises; collected critical data for the Department to assess marine
fishery resources post-Hurricane Katrina; and resumed
national/international seafood inspection for export/import services.

**JUSTIFICATION**

**[Section 1I -- Definitions]{.underline}**

[GUNTER]{.underline}: Gordon Gunter, NOAA Research Vesse

[USEPA]{.underline}: United States Environmental Protection Agency

[FDA]{.underline}: U.S. Food and Drug Administration

[NIH]{.underline}: National Institutes of Health

[CDC]{.underline}: Centers for Disease Control

[DOD]{.underline}: Department of Defense

[DOI]{.underline}: Department of Interior

[Codex]{.underline}: Joint WHO/FAO International Food Standards
Programme

[USDA]{.underline}: United States Department of Agriculture

[DOS]{.underline}: United States Department of State

[TED]{.underline}: Turtle Excluder Device

[Seafood Industries]{.underline}: The business community that harvests,
processes, brokers, and markets seafood.

[Bycatch]{.underline} -- Fish or other marine life taken in a fishery
that are not the target of the fishery.

**[Section III -- Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

**What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

The NOAA Fisheries Service's Northern Gulf of Mexico operations are
strategically located to monitor, support, and regulate the Gulf's
intense level of fishing-sector activity *via*: surveys of fish, marine
mammals and sea turtles; evaluations of fishing gear in reducing
bycatch; and inspection of seafood to ensure regulatory compliance and
seafood safety. Hurricane Katrina severely disrupted these functions,
devastated marine resources, and greatly damaged fishing and seafood
industries.

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

Sustaining major structural damage, NOAA Fisheries Service's Northern
Gulf of Mexico facilities were without power, potable water, sewage
services and communications; and contained hazardous materials. 40% of
employee residencies were uninhabitable. Gulf fisheries were devastated
with reductions of 97% in shrimp landings; 44% in reef fish catches; and
58% in charter vessel economic activity. Despite personal devastation,
employees executed duties to assess and mitigate Katrina's impact on
marine resources and related industries, and restored national and
international seafood safety services.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

A Command Center on the GUNTER was quickly established to provide
accommodations, meals, medical treatment, and communications. Allocating
resources to areas of greatest need, personnel conducted search and
rescue operations; provided disaster counseling; airlifted supplies;
secured facilities' hazardous materials and biological agents; retrieved
data, biological samples and critical equipment; accelerated procurement
of vital supplies and equipment; flew aircraft to assess hurricane
damage; implemented studies to assess impacts on marine resources;
conducted a Fall Groundfish survey; and resumed seafood inspection
duties.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

Successful resumption of key operational activities activated
development and implementation of recovery strategies for the Gulf
marine resources and associated fisheries and seafood industries; and
restored critical national and international seafood safety services.

**[Section IV -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

Personnel accountability, safety and support\-- within 10 days; initial
infrastructure \-- within 60 days; stewardship responsibilities
initiated \-- between 10 and 60 days; programmatic successes \-- between
10 and 120 days.

**What is the short-term impact (1--2 years) of the accomplishment on
NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

Resuming marine resource assessments and seafood inspections, allowed
the Department to implement timely measures in the critical early stages
of recovery, including support for the fishing/seafood industries in
their hour of greatest need and restoration of national and
international seafood safety services.

**What is the long-term impact (3--5 years) of the accomplishment on
NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

Post-Katrina accomplishments established the foundation for monitoring
and pursuing the recovery of impacted resources, fisheries and seafood
industries and ensuring the recovery of the social, economic, and
ecological values of this very important region.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

The GUNTER supported NOAA, the US Navy, the Coast Guard, and many state
and local agencies during recovery efforts. The USEPA, FDA, NIH, CDC,
DOD, DOS (Import/Export Control) and State public health and
environmental quality agencies relied on the seafood inspection
information. Further, the studies of Katrina's impacts on marine
resources are applicable to coastal resource management responsibilities
of agencies such as USEPA and DOI.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation?**

Yes. Katrina provided unique opportunities to develop
mitigation/recovery strategies for marine resources/fisheries impacted
by catastrophic hurricanes. The innovative ecosystem-based data
collection efforts represent pioneering steps in addressing impacts of
natural catastrophes on marine resources/fisheries/seafood industries
and are applicable world-wide. These efforts will be presented at a 2006
US-Mexico Bilateral Meeting on the science and monitoring of jointly
managed Gulf of Mexico marine resources.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how?**

Services delivered by this One-NOAA Team to fishermen and seafood
industry organizations established a new, extremely high level of
dedicated and exemplary customer service and a model to follow in future
disaster planning and recovery.

**Steven Murawski**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Leadership**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 16**

**[Nominee]{.underline}**

Steven A. Murawski

Director of Scientific Programs & Chief Science Advisor

NOAA Fisheries Service

Senior Executive Service

Past Awards: 2003 DOC Bronze Medal Award

**[Category]{.underline}**

Leadership

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

Under Dr. Murawski's leadership, assets across NOAA were swiftly
integrated to evaluate safety of Gulf seafood and potential ecosystem
impacts to the Northern Gulf from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For providing the vision, and scientific and organizational leadership
across NOAA to respond to devastating effects of Hurricanes Katrina and
Rita.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

Recognizing the breadth of challenges in the aftermath of Hurricanes
Katrina and Rita, Dr. Murawski swiftly integrated NOAA assets to
evaluate potential impacts to seafood safety and ecosystem
deterioration. Under his guidance NOAA survey cruises were designed and
executed to monitor and assess presence of toxins and pathogens in
seafood and surrounding wetlands. He directed NOAA scientists to
evaluate collected samples for potential contamination and to conduct
socio-economic analyses; and served as Departmental spokesmen to
Congress and the public to convey assurances of seafood safety.

**[Section 2 -- Definitions]{.underline}**

None.

**[Section 3 - Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

1.  **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
    Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

> Devastating impacts of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita included
> unparalleled damage to businesses and coastal areas along the Gulf of
> Mexico. Some fishing communities sustained near total loss of fleets
> and infrastructure, with an estimated value of \$500M. Public concern
> regarding the potential for seafood contamination and destructive
> impacts of marine debris to wetlands and fishing grounds was
> pervasive. These conditions directly relate to the Department's
> Strategic Goals for environmental stewardship and sustainable economic
> growth.

**2. What was the context in which the nominee(s) addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

> Short-term context:

-   The aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita created complex,
    interdisciplinary issues regarding seafood safety, marine debris,
    health of ecosystems, and impact on fish abundance and fishing
    communities.

-   Each required the vision to look across organizational boundaries to
    prioritize and quickly deploy existing resources. As an example, the
    ability to model waterborne contaminants requires swift action as
    toxics and pathogens soon travel from the immediate area.

> Long-term context:

-   If well- planned with adequate knowledge of ecosystem conditions,
    the opportunity exists to promote long-term sustainability of Gulf
    fisheries.

**3. What specific actions did the nominee(s) take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

-   Recognized breadth of challenges requiring strong leadership across
    NOAA;

-   Quickly ranked and deployed NOAA's assets to evaluate environmental,
    social, and economic issues related to Gulf fisheries;

-   Authorized targeted studies on contamination and socio-economic
    impacts; and

-   Began engagement of Fisheries Management Council, States, other
    Federal agencies, and Congress in unprecedented effort for recovery
    of the Gulf fishing industry.

**4. What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

-   Quantitatively verified that toxic chemicals did not accumulate to
    harmful levels in Gulf seafood, thereby preventing a false
    impression by the public that it was unsafe and an associated
    economic loss to the seafood industry; and

-   Request is now before Congress for \$21M to map debris and begin
    recovery of Gulf fisheries.

**[Section 4 - Additional Information]{.underline}**

**1. How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

-   Leadership efforts began the week of September 3, 2005.

-   By December 2005, more than 400 samples were analyzed with 5
    separate reports showing no harmful levels of contaminants in Gulf
    seafood.

-   Recovery of the fishing industry sector work began in November 2005,
    and will require years to complete.

**2. What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

-   Due to Dr. Murawski's leadership and guidance, NOAA effectively and
    efficiently delivered federal services to hurricane impacted areas
    along the Gulf of Mexico.

-   The safety of Gulf seafood was quickly confirmed and will continue
    to be monitored for some time.

-   Initial steps to recover the Gulf fisheries to sustainable levels
    are occurring.

**3. What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

-   In the long-term, the impact of recovering the Gulf fisheries will
    be to create substantial economic benefits to the region.

**4. Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

The socio-economic analyses authorized by Dr. Murawski provide data
useful to the Small Business Administration in assisting Gulf Coast
fishermen to re-establish their businesses.

**5. Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

No.

**6. Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how?**

Yes.

-   Dr. Murawski's vision and leadership demonstrated an approach to
    ensure that sound management decisions are made to address complex
    and harmful conditions in the aftermath of a natural disaster.

**Nancy B. Thompson**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Leadership**

**NMFS**

**Nomination #17**

**[Nominee]{.underline}**

Nancy B. Thompson, Ph.D.

NOAA Fisheries Service, Southeast Fisheries Science Center

*Director*

*ES-482*

Past Awards: NOAA Administrator's Award, May 6, 2003

**[Category]{.underline}**

Leadership

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

Despite personal and professional devastation wrought by Hurricanes
Katrina, Rita and Wilma, the Department's fisheries mission activities
resumed within two weeks under Dr. Thompson's leadership.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For leadership in executing the Department's fisheries mission
activities despite unprecedented devastation due to Hurricanes Katrina,
Rita and Wilma.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

Dr. Thompson's leadership was instrumental in resumption of the
Department's fisheries mission activities in the Gulf of Mexico
following the devastating impacts of Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma.
Under her leadership, employees' physical, emotional and professional
needs were addressed, allowing employees to focus on accomplishing their
work with minimal interruption. Dr. Thompson's concern for her staff and
tireless efforts on their behalf inspired them to pull together and find
solutions to otherwise overwhelming obstacles to resuming their work.

**Justification**

**[Section 2 - Definitions]{.underline}**

Southeast Fisheries Science Center (SEFSC)

Department of Commerce DOC

Fisheries Survey Vessel (FSV)

**[Section 3 -- Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

1.  **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
    Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

> The NOAA Fisheries Southeast Fisheries Science Center (SEFSC) collects
> data used for assessments to create the scientific basis for resource
> management in the Gulf of Mexico. Continuity of the time-series data
> is crucial to successful management of Gulf living marine resources.
> These data also support DOC Strategic Goal 1 "improve community
> capacity to achieve and sustain economic growth" and DOC Strategic
> Goal 3: "observe, protect, and manage the Earth's resources to promote
> environmental stewardship."

2.  **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> Hurricane Katrina rendered the Pascagoula Laboratory non-functional;
> 40% of staff lost homes or needed shelter; and staff were impacted
> emotionally by the changed landscape and the loss of family, friends
> and neighbors. Within a month Hurricane Rita threatened Galveston, TX
> and Lafayette, LA. In late October 2005, Hurricane Wilma made landfall
> in South Florida, forcing evacuation of SEFSC Headquarters and
> laboratory employees for the third time in the greater Miami area.
> During all three mandatory evacuations, research continued in support
> of resource management.

3.  **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> -Provided on-site leadership and rallied staff 24-hours per day, seven
> days per week;
>
> -Coordinated relief efforts;
>
> -Accounted for all NOAA SEFSC employees within 10 days of storm
> landfall;
>
> -Provided satellite phones to employees to account for staff and
> property;
>
> -Provided equipment to employees to improve self reliance;
>
> -Reinstated work infrastructure by placing trailers on site and
> expediting repair of a usable wing of the main laboratory;
>
> -Brought in counselors for grieving support; and
>
> -Articulated needs of people, facilities, mission to Department
> leadership to ensure continuity of operations/mission and sustenance
> of employees.

4.  **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

> -Maintained continuity of Center operations and integrity of
> time-series data critical to resource management of living marine
> resources in the Gulf of Mexico; and
>
> -Incorporated lessons learned into a plan to extend hurricane/disaster
> resilience throughout the region.

**[Section 4 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

1.  **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?**

> The return to the Department's fisheries mission activities resumed
> within 2 weeks of hurricane landfalls, after accounting for employees.
> Within one week, Dr. Thompson resolved problems related to receiving
> paychecks. Within two weeks, a team was deployed to rescue
> captive-reared dolphins. Within one month, trailers were placed on
> site as temporary office space. By October 2005, the fall groundfish
> cruise embarked, maintaining the integrity of this time-series data,
> which extends back to the 1970's. Within 4 months, data were analyzed
> and results on impacts of the storm to living marine resources were
> provided to resource managers.

2.  **When was the accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

> Started August 29, 2005, immediately after the storm eye passed
> inland; accomplishments focused in this order relative to priority:
>
> Accounting for employees and assessed their status: August 29 -
> September 9, 2005;
>
> Accounting for facility/safety and use: September 1, 2005;
>
> Starting mission: September 15, 2005 (gear work for turtle bycatch);
> and
>
> Groundfish cruise: October 2005.

3.  **What is the short-term impact (1--2 years) of the accomplishment
    on NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> Integrity of a critical long-term data stream was maintained, allowing
> for science-based management and policy decisions to be made for
> living marine resources in the Gulf of Mexico.

4.  **What is the long-term impact (3--5 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> Lessons learned from this series of natural disasters were used to
> formulate a plan, now being implemented, to move toward a more
> hurricane/disaster-resilient workplace.

5.  **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

> Indirectly, as other agencies rely on data and scientific advice
> provided by the NOAA Fisheries Southeast Science Center and its
> laboratories.

6.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation?**

> No

7.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

> This leadership effort resulted in well-documented lessons learned on
> meeting the needs of employees and their communities in a crisis.
> Priorities were set within three key areas in order of importance --
> people, facilities, and mission. Lessons learned included activities
> such as building emergency communication networks, ensuring delivery
> of timely paychecks, flexible use of administrative leave, TSP
> withdrawals without penalties, evacuation pay, and mobilizing
> counselors.

**Louis Jachimczyk Group**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Heroism**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 18**

**[Nominees]{.underline}**

Louis Jachimczyk, Assistant Special Agent in Charge (GS-13)

NOAA Fisheries Service, Office of Law Enforcement

Gregg Houghaboom, Special Agent (GS-12)

NOAA Fisheries Service, Office of Law Enforcement

Allan Coker, Special Agent (GS-12)

NOAA Fisheries Service, Office of Law Enforcement

Emanuel Antonaras, Special Agent (GS-9)

NOAA Fisheries Service, Office of Law Enforcement

Ross Lane, Special Agent (GS-12)

NOAA Fisheries Service, Office of Law Enforcement

Jeff Ray, Special Agent (GS-12)

NOAA Fisheries Service, Office of Law Enforcement

Patrick Flynn, Special Agent (GS-12)

NOAA Fisheries Service, Office of Law Enforcement

**[Category]{.underline}:** Heroism

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}:**

Protecting the WFO in Slidell, LA from potential looting and supplying
gas required for power

generators enabled continuous reporting of weather and flood data
immediately following

Hurricane Katrina.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}:**

For providing the necessary security and supplies required by the WFO in
Slidell, LA to continue

reporting weather and flood data to the public.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}:**

Special Agents from NOAA's Office of Law Enforcement placed themselves
at risk for disease and personal harm as they traversed the storm
ravaged area of coastal Louisiana. Arriving at the Weather Forecast
Office in Slidell, LA, they provided security from potential looting and
much needed gas for power generators. Their efforts enabled continuous
reporting of weather and flood data to the public immediately following
Hurricane Katrina; delivery of a vessel to state enforcement partners
for rescue operations; and access to restricted areas in New Orleans to
repair remote sensor sites.

**[JUSTIFICATION]{.underline}:**

**Section II. [Definitions]{.underline}**

[OLE]{.underline}: National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Law
Enforcement

[WFO]{.underline}: National Weather Service, Weather Forecast Office

[JEA]{.underline}: Joint Enforcement Agreement; a program through which
OLE federally deputizes

state enforcement officers in partner states to enforce federal
fisheries laws.

**Section III. [Award Justification]{.underline}**

1.  **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
    Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the Department requested the OLE
to provide support to

NOAA personnel and facilities, especially at the WFO in Slidell, LA,
where personnel and the

facility were vulnerable to looting and power generators were short on
fuel. Viable operations at

the WFO were critical to continued transmission of weather and flood
data on a 24-hour basis to

the public and rescue response agencies.

2.  **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal
    challenge or problem?**

> OLE Special Agents initially responded to a call for assistance from
> WFO personnel who heard gunshots and were fearful that their facility
> would be vulnerable to roving groups of people who were looting in the
> area. Challenged with blocked roadways and harsh conditions, these
> agents swiftly traversed the storm ravaged coastal area.

3.  **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> Arriving at the WFO, the OLE Special Agents promptly established
> security measures. Further, they transported 500 gallons of gas to
> this area, which was in short supply, for power generators, vehicles,
> and vessels.
>
> OLE Special Agents also delivered a vessel to our JEA partner for
> rescue operations; searched for NOAA employees who were unaccounted
> for; enabled access to restricted areas in New Orleans to repair
> remote sensor sites; provided humanitarian assistance; facilitated the
> distribution of water and food, and provided medical assistance to
> victims of Hurricane Katrina.

4.  **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

> The presence of OLE Special Agents at the WFO provided heightened
> security during a time of fear and uncertainty along with supplies
> necessary for the continued delivery of weather and flood data during
> the multi-agency response to victims of Hurricane Katrina. The Special
> Agents' humanitarian efforts, partially at their own expense, rendered
> during the performance of their duties, exemplified the highest
> traditions of public service. Further, continuity of other NOAA
> operations were facilitated as the Agents located Department employees
> who were previously unaccounted for.

**Section IV. [Additional Information]{.underline}**

1.  **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?**

> Two weeks.

2.  **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> Sustained the ability to provide critical weather and flood
> information and advisories to the public and responding personnel.

3.  **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> N/A

4.  **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how**?

> Yes, this information was critical to response and evacuation efforts.
> Additionally, the Special Agents located employees of the Department
> of Commerce who were previously unaccounted for.

5.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation?**

> N/A

6.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

> N/A

**Thomas Bigford Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Leadership**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 19**

**[Nominees]{.underline}**

  --------------------- ------------- --------------- -------------------------
  **Name**              **Grade**     **Line Office** **Past Awards**

  Thomas Bigford,       ZP-V          NOAA Fisheries  Unit Citations 1982,
  Fishery Administrator                               1984; Special Act 1996;
                                                      Gold Medal 2004

  Kerry Frederick       ZP-III        NOAA Fisheries  Gold Medal 2004
  Griffin, Marine                                     
  Resource Habitat                                    
  Specialist                                          

  Jane Serrita          GS-15         NOAA General    Administrators Award
  Hannuksela, Attorney                Counsel         2002, Gold Medal 2004

  Melanie Spring        ZP-III        NOAA Fisheries  None
  Harris, Marine                                      
  Resource Habitat                                    
  Specialist                                          

  Mark A. Hodor,        GS-14         NOAA General    NOAA GC Award 2003, 2004;
  Attorney                            Counsel         Bronze Medal 2004;
                                                      Administrator's Award
                                                      2005; Special Act 2005

  Dr. Garry F. Mayer,   ZP-V          NOAA Fisheries  Silver Medal 2000, Gold
  Fishery Administrator                               Medal 2004

  Christopher D.                      NOAA General    NOAA GC Award 2004; DOC
  Fontecchio, Attorney                Counsel         GC Special Act 2005

  Brett Joseph,         GS-14         NOAA General    None
  Attorney                            Counsel         

  Emily Rebecca Lindow  GS-14/ZP-IV   DOC/Secretary   None
                                      and NMFS/AA     
  --------------------- ------------- --------------- -------------------------

**[Category]{.underline}**

Leadership

**[Nominator]{.underline}**

William T. Hogarth, Ph.D

Assistant Administrator, Fisheries

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

The Team's leadership in a contentious interagency effort enabled timely
implementation of Energy Policy Act's hydropower provisions that
increase public participation in license negotiations.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For expeditiously negotiating hydropower licensing procedures and
regulations to improve stakeholder participation and conserve fish
habitat.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

The Team worked with representatives from CEQ, DOI, OMB, USDA, industry,
and environmental groups to develop administrative processes for public
involvement in DOC recommendations and regulatory language to implement
provisions of the Energy Policy Act. Contentious interagency debate on
public review of recommendations for fish passage through hydropower
facilities began in 2004 and evolved into a 3-month sprint to meet the
November 2005 deadline for a final rule to implement hydropower
provisions mandated by the 2005 Energy Policy Act. Despite formidable
challenges, the deadline was met.

**Justification**

**[Section 2 - Definitions]{.underline}**

Anadromous fish -- Fish species that migrate as adults from the ocean
into rivers to spawn, and then return to the sea as juveniles.

CEQ --White House Council on Environmental Quality.

DOC -- Department of Commerce.

DOI -- Department of Interior.

Energy Policy Act of 2005 -- Law passed on August 8, 2005, that mandated
the Department of Commerce to work with other federal agencies to
develop a final rule on fish passage issues by November 2005.

Hydropower facility -- Dam and power station designed to generate power
from river flow, with implications to trust resources and associated
industries.

OMB -- Office of Management and Budget.

USDA -- US Department of Agriculture.

**[Section 3 -- Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

> **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
> Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**
>
> The goal was to resolve years of fractious debate about balancing
> environmental concerns in decisions related to hydropower facility
> licensing. The Team participated in contentious interagency
> discussions from 2004 until mid-2005, and then parlayed the strength
> of scientific information, natural resource policy, and legal insights
> into key aspects of an interim final rule implementing the Energy
> Policy Act of 2005. The rulemaking deadline mandated by the Act was
> met via a strong team representing national interests.

# What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal, challenge or problem?

# This accomplishment addressed a congressional mandate to develop a final rule by November 2005, in response to the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Eighteen months of preemptive, interagency work in anticipation of new energy legislation offered a solid footing for this 3-month task. 

> **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
> challenge or problem?**
>
> The Team established a technical group in 2005, in anticipation of
> this new mandate. That group redoubled its efforts after the Energy
> Policy Act of 2005 was signed, thereby enabling the Department to
> speak with authority in interagency negotiations with Interior and
> Agriculture, under OMB and CEQ oversight. The interagency team
> completed a joint rule within the 90-day period mandated by Congress.
>
> **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
> qualitative terms?**
>
> The congressionally mandated final rule was published on November 17,
> 2005. This joint, integrated rule with DOC, Interior, and Agriculture
> met the Department's major obligation under the Energy Policy Act of
> 2005. By virtue of the rule, the Department established procedures to
> accept alternative approaches to protect anadromous fish and ways to
> analyze those alternatives. The rule also provides a 90-day process by
> which the public can seek review of the scientific underpinnings of
> the Department's conditions for fish protection at hydropower
> projects. The process began implementation in FY 2006.

**[Section 4 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

> **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
> accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**
>
> DOC had addressed administrative, scientific, and legal issues
> associated with hydropower facility licensing for years. Efforts
> escalated in 2004, with rulemaking for public comment on Department
> recommendations to allow fish to pass by hydropower facilities. That
> baseline effort with federal partners and the private sector was
> crucial as the Team toiled to meet the 90-day congressional mandate
> for a final rule. The final rule was published on November 17, 2005.
>
> **What is the short-term impact (1--2 years) of the accomplishment on
> NOAA's or the Department's mission?**
>
> These actions satisfied a mandate for a final rule on an important
> issue to the hydropower industry and a crucial aspect of the
> Administration's energy package. The new process satisfies industry
> concerns for balance in the licensing arena.
>
> **What is the long-term impact (3--5 years) of the accomplishment on
> NOAA's or the Department's mission?**
>
> Long-term prospects are for greater support from Congress and improved
> collaboration between the Department and its interagency partners. The
> new process should provide a greater choice of alternatives to allow
> fish past hydropower facilities, thereby improving the prospects for
> rebuilding imperiled fish stocks.
>
> **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
> Federal agencies? If so, how?**
>
> The Department worked closely with the Department of Interior (Fish
> and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Geological Survey,
> Solicitor's Office, Office of Policy) and Department of Agriculture
> (Forest Service, Solicitor's Office) to develop this joint rule. The
> collaborative effort was mandated by Congress and prompted by shared
> jurisdiction. The Department's success was aided by close partnerships
> with CEQ and OMB.
>
> **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
> technology, or automation?**
>
> The new regulations improve stakeholder opportunities to submit
> alternatives for fish passage and other environmental measures.
> Alternatives include more efficient use of technology to count fish
> diverted away from the facility, resulting in a more profitable and
> efficient hydropower project.
>
> **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
> non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
> support? If so, how?**
>
> Administrative procedures encompassing legal and scientific issues add
> opportunities for public participation in licensing. New avenues are
> available to challenge mandatory conditions, with greater access to
> government operations/decision-making.

**Jerome Pella/Michele Masuda**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 20**

**[Nominees]{.underline}**

Jerome Pella, Ph.D., Mathematical Statistician -- ZP/1529/IV

NOAA Fisheries Service

Alaska Fisheries Science Center, Auke Bay Laboratory, Juneau, Alaska

Michele Masuda, Mathematical Statistician -- ZP/1529/III

NOAA Fisheries Service

Alaska Fisheries Science Center, Auke Bay Laboratory, Juneau, Alaska

**[Category]{.underline}**

Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**[Nominator]{.underline}**

William T. Hogarth, Ph.D

Assistant Administrator, Fisheries

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

> New method facilitates fisheries ecosystem management by recognizing,
> for the first time, individual populations in a mixed-population
> sample without specific genetic descriptions of the populations.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

> For creating a method that for the first time recognizes individual
> fish populations in a mixed-population sample with no baseline genetic
> data.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

> The Team developed a genetic program for estimating the number of fish
> populations in samples with no prior knowledge of individual
> populations. Although required for ecosystem management, knowledge of
> individual fish populations is lacking in most fisheries. Collecting
> data via this new method enables use of specific harvest limits to
> reduce risk of over-harvesting smaller populations and maximize yield
> from larger ones. Also, ecosystem management will become more
> efficient as new genetic data on the world's fish, bird, and mammal
> populations are collected at significant cost savings.

**[Definitions]{.underline}**

> Baseline -- a genetic description of the individual populations that
> make up a specific fishery.

Mixed populations -- a group of populations in a specific fishery or
area.

> Population -- used in the sense of "local population," Mendelian
> Population, stock, or Deme that refers to locally interbreeding
> groups.

**[Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

1.  **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the**

> **Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**
>
> NOAA's Strategic Plan, Mission Goal #1, reads: "Protect, restore, and
> manage the use of coastal and ocean resources through an ecosystem
> approach to management." To exercise an ecosystem approach to
> management, individual populations need to be known. In most
> fisheries, individual populations are neither identified nor readily
> sampled. The challenge was to devise a method of segregating
> populations in a fishery without prior descriptions of the baseline
> populations.

2.  **What was the context in which the nominees addressed the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> The Team approached the problem knowing that in most cases the
> baseline populations could not be readily sampled. They worked on a
> method to segregate individual populations in a mixed population
> sample by relatedness in genetic composition. This was a novel
> approach, because most scientists believed the only way to identify
> individual populations would be to sample them when they are
> segregated during spawning.

3.  **What specific actions did the nominees take to address the goal,
    challenge**

> **or problem?**
>
> The Team developed a complex software program that searched for
> genetic linkages between individuals in a mixed-population sample and
> then combined the related individuals into groups or populations.

4.  **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative**

> **terms?**
>
> The Team developed a software program that provides accurate estimates
> of population composition in mixed harvests without prior genetic
> knowledge of the baseline populations that contribute to the mixed
> harvest.

**[Additional Information]{.underline}**

1.  **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was
    the**

> **accomplishment completed?**
>
> The Team began developing the mathematical procedures for this program
> about 4 years ago, and the concerted effort to complete a manuscript
> took about 1 year. The manuscript was submitted to the *Canadian
> Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences* in March 2005 and accepted
> for publication in September 2005. It was available for world
> distribution in February 2006.

2.  **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's mission?**

> World recognition of this achievement will occur rapidly, as the paper
> is now available via the Internet. Early use of the program to
> evaluate stock structure in some fisheries has already begun, but it
> will probably be several years before major uses of the program are
> reported in the literature.

3.  **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's mission?**

> The long-term impact will be on NOAA Mission Goal Numbers 1 and 5, by
> providing a critical tool to better accomplish an ecosystem approach
> to management in national and international fisheries at lower costs
> than previously possible.

4.  **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

> This program will improve management of fish, bird, and mammal
> populations under other federal, state, or international jurisdiction
> by lowering the cost of collecting required information.

5.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?**

> This effort is a major scientific breakthrough in international
> genetic population analysis. Prior to this new method, identification
> of different populations required sampling the individual populations
> (e.g., Pacific or Atlantic salmon) when they are segregated during
> spawning or mating. In most cases, the location of individual
> populations when they are segregated is unknown. This achievement
> provides researchers and managers with the first tool to estimate the
> number of populations in many marine fisheries. Bird, marine mammal,
> and terrestrial mammal management also will benefit from this
> sophisticated approach to population identification.

6.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support?**

> N/A

**David Boughton Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 21**

**[Nominees]{.underline}**

David Boughton, Ph.D.

NOAA Fisheries Service, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, Fisheries
Ecology Division

Position Title: Ecologist

Series-Grade/Pay Band: ZP-0408-3

Peter Adams, Ph.D.

NOAA Fisheries .Service, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, Fisheries
Ecology Division

Position Title: Research Fishery Biologist

Series-Grade/Pay Band: ZP-0482-4

Churchill Grimes, Ph.D.

NOAA Fisheries Service, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, Fisheries
Ecology Division

Position Title: Fisheries Ecology Division Director

Series-Grade/Pay Band: ZP--0482-5

Past Awards: NOAA Bronze Medal Recipient (1996)

Number range CHAPTER

**[Category]{.underline}**

Scientific Achievement

**[Nominator]{.underline}**

William T. Hogarth, Ph.D

Assistant Administrator, Fisheries

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

The California Coastal Salmonid Monitoring Plan marks the first attempts
to collect recovery data for California ESA salmonid populations. The
data will be the basis for ESA decisions and delistings.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For leading the Coastal California Salmonid Monitoring Plan to measure
recovery of California's Endangered Species Act salmonid listings.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

The Team demonstrated outstanding leadership in developing a joint plan
with the California Department of Fish and Game to monitor anadromous
salmonids. The plan, the first for California, is essential to the
recovery of threatened or endangered salmonids, and it will have a
direct and lasting impact on the ability of the Department to meet
Pacific salmon recovery goals. Criteria established in the plan are
based on a coastwide scientific analysis and consensus among many
partners, and are expected to be the basis for future recovery plans of
ESA-listed salmonids in the region.

**Justification**

**[Section 2 -- Definition]{.underline}**

Endangered Species Act = ESA

**[Section 3 -- Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

1.  **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
    Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

> The California Coastal Monitoring Plan is an essential step toward
> recovery of ESA-listed salmonids. The lack of measurable recovery
> standards has led to great uncertainty and lack of confidence about
> the recovery planning process.

2.  **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> Developing the California Coastal Monitoring Plan was a complex and
> difficult process due to the large number of agencies and groups
> involved in the plan and their often conflicting goals. The process
> included the States of California and Oregon, the U.S. Fish and
> Wildlife Service, the U.S. Forest Service, and many other government,
> private and industry groups. Bringing consensus to this process was a
> difficult but essential requirement.

3.  **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> The monitoring plan process began with two workshops. The first
> workshop, which reviewed existing monitoring plans in California and
> elsewhere on the West Coast, resulted in a strategy for developing
> monitoring plan goals. The second workshop identified specific
> monitoring goals and needs for each recovery area. Subsequently, a
> writing team was formed to develop the plan. This two-year process
> included extensive comment and review by all partners at almost every
> stage of the plan.

4.  **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

> The development and acceptance of the monitoring plan allows the
> California ESA salmonid recovery process to begin in earnest. The
> ability to assess salmonid population status and trends is central to
> any ESA decision.

**[Section 4 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

1.  **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

> The monitoring plan process took 2-1/2 years. The initial plan was
> completed in July 2005, with comments and revisions continuing for
> another 6 months.

2.  **What is the short-term impact (1--2 years) of the accomplishment
    on NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> The short-term impact on the Department will be to build the Southwest
> ESA salmonid recovery process on a strong scientific foundation and
> allow recovery planning to begin in earnest.

3.  **What is the long-term impact (3--5 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> In the long term, the monitoring plan will impact nearly all of NOAA
> Fisheries Service activities in the Southwest. The monitoring plan
> will provide necessary data for a range of agency activities.

4.  **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

> Actions of all federal natural resource--oriented agencies,
> particularly the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the US Forest
> Service, were limited because of the lack of California salmonid
> population data. These agencies now will be more scientifically
> informed and better able to make and evaluate decisions about resource
> management affecting salmonids.

5.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation?**

> The monitoring plan will base the Southwest ESA-listed salmonid
> recovery process on a sound scientific foundation. Although population
> monitoring itself is not a major scientific advancement, the lack of
> population monitoring has been a major shortcoming.

6.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

> The knowledge that recovery decisions are based on a sound scientific
> process brings confidence and acceptance from stakeholders. This
> recognition is tremendously important, because ultimately it will be
> the stakeholders themselves who accomplish salmonid recovery.

**Clay Porch Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 22**

**[Nominees]{.underline}**

Clay E. Porch III, Ph.D., NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-14, Research
Fisheries Biologist

> Bronze Medal (2004)

Stephen C. Turner, Ph.D., NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-14, Research
Fisheries Biologist\
\
Gerald P. Scott, Ph.D., NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, ZP-V, Supervisory
Fisheries Biologist\
\
Elizabeth N. Brooks, Ph.D., NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-12,
Statistical Mathematician\
\
Shannon Cass-Calay, Ph.D., NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-12 ,
Research Fisheries Biologist

> Bronze Medal (2004)

Guillermo A. Diaz, Ph.D., NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-12, Research
Fisheries Biologist\
\
Scott Nichols, Ph.D., NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, ZP-V, Supervisory
Fisheries Biologist\
\
Mauricio Ortiz, Ph.D., NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-13, Research
Fisheries Biologist\
\
Joshua S. Nowlis, Ph.D., NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-13, Research
Fisheries Biologist

**[Category]{.underline}**

Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**[Nominator]{.underline}**

William T. Hogarth, Ph.D

Assistant Administrator, Fisheries

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

The Team developed leading-edge analytical tools, including a complex
mathematical model, to assess the overfished Gulf of Mexico red snapper
stock, which is of high commercial and recreational value.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For developing leading-edge assessments of Gulf of Mexico red snapper
stock by integrating new and diverse sources of biological and fishery
data.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

The Team developed a mathematical model with analytical tools to
capitalize on recent improvements in data collection. These tools form a
major advancement in quantitatively linking voluminous, diverse, and
higher resolution data into an integrative model for providing fisheries
management advice. Resource managers now are receiving greatly improved
scientific advice on balancing competing uses of red snapper stock by
recreational and commercial fishermen and by the economically valuable
Gulf of Mexico shrimp trawl fisheries, in which juvenile red snapper is
a bycatch species.

**Justification**

**[Section 2 - Definitions]{.underline}**

**Bycatch** -- Fish or other marine life taken in a fishery that are not
the target of the fishery.

**Bycatch Reduction Device** (BRD) -- Gear modification, commonly used
with shrimp trawls, to reduce bycatch while fishing.

**Discards** -- *Economic* discards are catches that are the target of a
fishery but are not retained because they are of an undesirable size,
sex, or quality, or for other economic reasons. *Regulatory* discards
are catches that may not be retained because of existing regulations
(e.g., size or trip limits, closed season, etc.).

**GMFMC** -- Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council.

**GOM** -- Gulf of Mexico.

**[Section 3 -- Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

1.  **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
    Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

To improve techniques and models for assessing the overfished GOM red
snapper stock and provide scientific advice to the GMFMC.

2.  **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

GOM red snapper has dominated the attention of fishery managers for
years. Management of this stock is controversial due to its economical
importance to competing interests of recreational and commercial
fishermen; and the bycatch of juvenile red snapper in the shrimp fishery
(the most economically valuable fishery in the GOM) significantly
impedes the rebuilding of the stock. Despite reductions in fishing
mortality, GOM red snapper remains severely overfished. Prior to the
2005 assessment, scientists knew that existing data was inadequate for
successfully managing this complicated fishery. Large research
investments greatly advanced the red snapper information base, but
existing analytical tools could not fully utilize the new, sophisticated
datasets.

3.  **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

The Team developed an innovative and mathematically rigorous assessment
model with new analytical techniques to capitalize on massive gains in
red snapper data. Using these powerful methodologies to analyze
geographic and temporal substructures of the data, the Team produced a
highly credible stock assessment. It explored alternative stock
hypotheses; developed new techniques to create abundance indices;
constructed a catch history reaching more than 130 years; and predicted
costs and benefits of management options. Using an open and highly
scrutinized process with stakeholder participation, the effort
culminated in the review and acceptance of the techniques/model by an
independent panel of experts.

4.  **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

This advanced stock assessment of red snapper allows fisheries managers
to allocate resource use to commercial, recreational, and shrimp trawl
fisheries. The new techniques also are applicable to economically
important stocks such as bluefin tuna and billfishes; and will
facilitate the analysis of voluminous and diverse datasets required for
an improved ecosystem approach to management.

**[Section 4 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

1.  **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?**

The model required 2 years of intensive study, preceded by 5 years of
greatly enhanced data collection efforts.

> **When was the accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

The GOM Red Snapper Assessment was completed in fall 2005.

2.  **What is the short-term impact (1--2 years) of the accomplishment
    on NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

These new analytical tools provided immediate and credible scientific
advice to the Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Management Council (GMFMC) for
developing appropriate and specific management measures for rebuilding
the GOM red snapper stock.

3.  **What is the long-term impact (3--5 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

One of NOAA Fisheries Service's Strategic Goals is to achieve
sustainable fisheries that ensure fish stocks are available for
commercial, recreational, and subsistence uses. Because the GOM red
snapper stock is severely depleted, rebuilding to optimal levels will
require decades, even in the absence of fishing. In this context, the
long-term objective defined by the GMFMC is to rebuild to optimal levels
by 2032. In a 3- to 5-year time frame, the 2005 red snapper assessment
provides a sound scientific basis for the GMFMC to achieve specific
rebuilding targets by 2010, which will lead to the achievement of the
2032 goal.

4.  **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

The scientific approach developed by the Team is of great value to all
federal agencies pursuing ecosystem approaches to resource management,
where vast and varied data sets must be quantitatively integrated into
rigorous analytical models for delivering scientific advice to resource
managers.

5.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation?**

The tools represent major advancements in the scientific methods of
quantitatively incorporating---in a realistic and credible
manner---voluminous, diverse, and higher resolution data into an
integrative model for providing fisheries management advice.

6.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

N/A

**Chris Jordan Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 23**

**[Nominee]{.underline}**

**Chris E. Jordan, Ph.D.**

NOAA Fisheries Service, Northwest Fisheries Science Center

Program Manager, Mathematical Biology and Systems Monitoring,

ZP-482-IV

Past Awards: Department of Commerce, Bronze Medal Award (2005)

**Kim W. Kratz, Ph.D.**

NOAA Fisheries Service, Northwest Regional Office

Senior Policy Advisor,

ZP-482-IV

Past Awards: Department of Commerce -- Bronze Medal Award (2005)

**Mary H. Ruckelshaus, Ph.D.**

NOAA Fisheries Service, Northwest Fisheries Science Center

Team Leader, Salmon Risk Evaluation group,

ZP-482-IV

Past Awards: Department of Commerce -- Bronze Medal Award (2005)

Department of Commerce -- Bronze Medal Award (2004)

Department of Commerce -- Bronze Medal Award (2000)

**Michael R. Crouse**

NOAA Fisheries Service, Northwest Regional Office

Assistant Regional Administrator, Habitat Conservation Division;

ZP-480-V

Past Awards: Department of Commerce -- Bronze Medal Award (2004)

**[Category]{.underline}**

Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**[Nominator]{.underline}**

William T. Hogarth, Ph.D

Assistant Administrator, Fisheries

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

Linking recovery plans for 17 distinct salmon populations, the Team's
approach advances the Department's ability to work with stakeholders to
rank and sequence recovery efforts for each population.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For development of a science-based monitoring and adaptive management
methodology for salmon and steelhead recovery in the Pacific Northwest.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

The Team is honored for developing a decision and adaptive management
approach through a collaborative effort among department scientists for
use in recovery plans in four Pacific Northwest recovery domains that
contain 17 salmon and steelhead listed ESUs. The approach integrates
statutory, regulatory, and policy requirements with the best available
science. This approach will be applied by local recovery planners to
develop and refine adaptive management and monitoring programs and
report the effectiveness of these efforts on salmonid recovery and
rebuilding.

**Justification**

**[Section 2 - Definitions]{.underline}**

Anadromous -- A fish species migrating as a juvenile from freshwater to
the ocean and then returning as an adult to spawn in freshwater; most
Pacific salmon are anadromous.

Evolutionarily Significant Unit (ESU) -- An ESU is a population that (1)
is substantially reproductively isolated from conspecific populations
and (2) represents an important component in the evolutionary legacy of
the species**.**

Recovery Plan -- The [Endangered Species
Act](javascript:HandleLink('cpe_1292_0','CPNEWWIN:NewWindow^top=10,left=10,width=500,height=400,toolbar=1,location=1,directories=0,status=1,menubar=1,scrollbars=1,resizable=1@http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/laws/esa.htm');)
(ESA) requires NOAA Fisheries Service to develop and implement [recovery
plans](javascript:HandleLink('cpe_1292_0','CPNEWWIN:NewWindow^top=10,left=10,width=500,height=400,toolbar=1,location=1,directories=0,status=1,menubar=1,scrollbars=1,resizable=1@http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/prot_res/PR3/recovery.html');)
for conservation and survival of [listed
species](http://www.nwr.noaa.gov/ESA-Salmon-Listings/Index.cfm).
Recovery plans must describe specific management actions; establish
objective, measurable criteria for delisting; and estimate the time and
cost to carry out measures needed to achieve recovery.

Recovery Planning Domain -- A recovery planning area that may consist of
multiple ESUs.

Technical Recovery Team (TRT) -- A NOAA-appointed team of qualified
scientists charged with developing ESA delisting criteria for listed
salmon and steelhead, as well as providing other scientific input to the
recovery planning process. The TRT consists of experts in salmon
biology, population dynamics, conservation biology, ecology, and other
disciplines relevant to the recovery domain.

Viable -- A viable salmonid population (VSP) is an independent
population of any Pacific

salmonid (genus *Oncorhynchus*) that has a negligible risk of extinction
due to threats from demographic variation, local environmental
variation, and genetic diversity changes over a 100-year time frame.

**[Section 3 -- Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

1.  **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
    Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

> The Team's challenge was to create guidance for local planners to
> develop recovery plans in four Pacific Northwest recovery domains that
> contain 17 salmon and steelhead listed ESUs to be completed by
> December 2006. This challenge directly relates to NOAA's mission to
> recover protected species through an ecosystem approach to management,
> and DOC's strategic environmental stewardship mission.

2.  **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> Each year the Department provides millions of dollars to states and
> tribes in the Pacific Northwest to implement conservation actions for
> listed anadromous species. Millions more are spent annually by other
> federal, regional, and local entities to fulfill obligations under the
> Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the Northwest Power Act and to
> implement conservation programs. Local recovery planners require
> consistent and scientifically sound guidance to develop and refine
> adaptive management and monitoring programs and report the
> effectiveness of salmonid recovery and rebuilding efforts.

3.  **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> The Team developed an approach that identifies key questions to
> consider when determining whether an ESU's condition and its
> associated threats warrant a delisting. The science-based guidance
> enables planners to determine where funds can be expended to gain the
> most significant results. This relationship provides the context for
> recovery actions by the Department, and other federal, regional, and
> state conservation programs. The adaptive management and monitoring
> approach ensures that benefits of implemented actions can be
> demonstrated and reported.

4.  **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

> Federal, state, tribal, and local entities are using this guidance to
> develop and implement conservation programs for listed ESUs. The
> successful use of this guidance now is a template for a region-wide
> approach to recovery plan development, implementation, and monitoring.
> This success will enhance completion of recovery plans by December
> 2006, implementation of the plans, and future salmonid conservation
> management.

**[Section 4 -- Additional]{.underline}**

1.  **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?** **When was
    the accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed**

> The Team initiated development of this decision and adaptive
> management strategy in July 2005, and its use in recovery plans began
> in December 2005.

2.  **What is the short-term impact (1--2 years) of the accomplishment
    on NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> The Team created a tool for use by all stakeholders involved in
> developing adaptive management programs for recovery plans,
> implementing actions, and reporting effectiveness that advances NOAA's
> mission to recover protected species.

3.  **What is the long-term impact (3--5 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> The Team contributed to NOAA's objective to manage ecosystems by
> applying scientifically sound observations, assessments, and
> conservation science to promote the sustainable use of resources and
> to balance competing uses of coastal and marine ecosystems. The Team's
> achievements represent a major contribution to NOAA's objective to
> achieve balance among ecological, environmental, and social
> influences, through an ecosystem approach to management, and advance
> DOC's strategic environmental stewardship mission.

4.  **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

> The guidance affects regional and national federal agencies using
> their authorities to implement the Endangered Species Act through
> effective adaptive management programs for the management and
> conservation of anadromous salmonids.

5.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation?**

> The Team integrated scientifically sound observations, assessments,
> and conservation findings to facilitate the recovery of species at an
> unprecedented scale. The framework distills a core set of conservation
> attributes that define salmon viability from the complex approaches
> taken by four different TRTs. The viability attributes are applied in
> the decision framework in a clear and logical manner, providing a
> science-based context for the multiple regional entities implementing
> conservation and monitoring programs.

6.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

> Given the complexity of salmon and their recovery, and the limitations
> of funding for action implementation and monitoring, this approach
> advances the Department's ability to work with all salmon recovery
> partners to implement a region-wide approach to efficiently assess and
> report progress in the rebuilding of listed salmonid species.

**John Catena/Eric Hutchins**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Leadership**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 24**

**[Nominees]{.underline}**

John G. Catena

NOAA Fisheries Service

Supervisory Marine Habitat Resource Specialist

Series 401, Band IV

Past Awards: Silver Medal (2000), Bronze (2000), General Counsel\'s
Award (1998)

Eric Hutchins

NOAA Fisheries Service

Marine Habitat Resource Specialist

Series 401, Band IV

Past Awards: Silver Medal (2000), Administrator\'s Award (2004)

**[Category]{.underline}**

Leadership

**[Nominator]{.underline}**

William T. Hogarth, Ph.D

Assistant Administrator, Fisheries

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

The Team forged a cooperative regional approach to Gulf of Maine habitat
restoration among US and Canadian authorities yielding effective
projects, scientific project assessment and local stewardship.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For leadership in working with US and Canadian partners in conceiving,
developing, and implementing the Gulf of Maine Habitat Restoration
Strategy.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

The Team led the United States--Canadian Gulf of Maine Habitat
Restoration Committee in developing the Gulf of Maine Habitat
Restoration Strategy, which was adopted by the Gulf of Maine Council on
the Marine Environment in October 2004. Providing a blueprint for
international ecosystem-based restoration of coastal habitats, this
strategy already is resulting in the implementation of specific
restoration projects and the development of comprehensive, science-based
monitoring protocols for salt marsh and riverine habitats.

**Justification**

**[Section 2 - Definitions]{.underline}**

The Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment (GOMC) is a
collaboration of public and private entities established to enhance,
improve, and protect the estuarine, coastal, and marine resources of the
Gulf. In 1989, the Governors of Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire,
and the Premiers of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia passed a resolution
stating that each jurisdiction is committed to the Council\'s mission
"to maintain and enhance environmental quality in the Gulf of Maine
(GOM) and to allow for sustainable resource use by existing and future
generations." The Department, represented by the NOAA Fisheries Service,
is a voting member of the Council.

**[Section 3 -- Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

1.  **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
    Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

The Gulf of Maine Habitat Restoration Strategy establishes a framework
within which partners throughout the region can work collaboratively to
identify and restore priority habitats through an ecosystem-based
approach. This approach directly supports the NOAA Strategic Plan.

2.  **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

Working under the auspices of the GOMC, the Team established the
Council\'s Habitat Restoration Committee, composed of governmental and
non-governmental representatives, to guide restoration efforts in the
region. One of the first accomplishments of the Committee was completion
of a restoration strategy consolidating the region's disparate
restoration efforts, identifying priority habitat types, and leveraging
federal, state, and local funding.

3.  **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

The Team provided critical leadership to the GOMC to create the
Committee and then to develop and implement the Strategy. Developing the
strategy document required extensive communication between various
regional organizations. Unlike many efforts, where strategies are
adopted and then forgotten, the Team made sure the Strategy\'s
recommendations were implemented. They directed habitat restoration
projects, and developed and implemented standardized monitoring
protocols for salt marsh and river restoration projects to better
evaluate project success.

4.  **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

The Team's efforts led to establishment of priority habitat restoration
actions for the region; initiation of dozens of habitat restoration
projects on both sides of the Gulf of Maine that address the priority
habitats outlined in the strategy; and implementation of Gulf-wide
monitoring for salt marsh restoration projects and of a Gulf-wide
monitoring protocol for river restoration projects.

**[Section 4 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

1.  **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?** **When was
    the accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

The Strategy was developed over two years, adopted by the GOMC on June
14, 2004, and publicly released at the Gulf of Maine Summit in October
2004 in St. Andrews, New Brunswick.

2.  **What is the short-term impact (1--2 years) of the accomplishment
    on NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

The Department and its restoration partners are beginning to see an
increase in the quantity and quality of habitat restoration projects in
the region. The Strategy helps the Department and NOAA allocate scarce
funds to the region's highest priority projects and provides a way to
evaluate the success of these funding efforts. This increased habitat
restoration directly supports the NOAA Strategic Plan goal to restore
coastal and ocean resources.

3.  **What is the long-term impact (3--5 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

The Strategy will facilitate even more high-quality habitat restoration
projects in the next 3 to 5 years. As more projects are initiated,
secondary benefits (e.g., enhanced protection and management of
Department trust resources, ocean literacy) will accrue. These secondary
benefits also support the NOAA Strategic Plan.

4.  **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

The Habitat Restoration Committee, composed of representatives from
every level of state, provincial, and federal governments in both the
United States and Canada, led development of the strategy. Many
nonprofit organizations (e.g., Ducks Unlimited, American Rivers, and
Trout Unlimited) also participated in the process, are formal members of
the Committee, and are working to implement the Strategy's
recommendations.

5.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation?**

The Strategy led to new restoration techniques and scientific monitoring
of Gulf of Maine restoration projects. The Committee now is working to
develop a standardized set of river restoration monitoring protocols to
ensure that quality science is incorporated into the growing number of
habitat restoration projects.

6.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

The adoption of the restoration Strategy gives municipalities,
non-governmental organizations, schools, citizen groups and the public a
common understanding of the region's priority habitats and serves as an
impetus for citizens to engage in restoration activities.

**Edward Little Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Personal and Professional Excellence**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 25**

**[Nominees]{.underline}**

Edward Little- NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-11, Fishery Biologist

Jay Boulet - NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-11, Fishery Reporting
Specialist

Debbie Batiste - NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-7, Fishery Reporting
Specialist

Charles Armstrong - NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS- 9, Fishery
Biologist

Albert Gable -- NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS -9, Fishery Biologist

Kathleen Hebert - NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-11, Fishery
Reporting Specialist

Gary Rousse - NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-11, Fishery Reporting
Specialist

Linda Guidry - NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-11, Fishery Reporting
Specialist

Elizabeth Bourgeois - NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS- 11, Fishery
Biologist

Ted Flowers - NOAA Fisheries Service, SEFSC, GS-11, Fishery Reporting
Specialist

**[Category]{.underline}**

Personal and Professional Excellence

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

Provided eyewitness reports of damage to the Gulf fishing industry
immediately following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, which were invaluable
to Federal efforts to determine the extent of the disaster.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For operating under adverse post-hurricane conditions to provide
critical eye-witness reports on hurricane-devastated fishing
communities.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

This Team sustained severe personal devastation and major disruptions at
work locations due to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Demonstrating
extraordinary resilience and professional commitment in the first 30
days following hurricane landfall, they organized search and rescue
missions for other Port Agents; and re-established contact with, and
gave support to local fishing communities, often as the only Federal
presence. Their detailed reports were crucial to informing NOAA social
scientists, and state and Federal agencies on damage to fishing
communities and the commercial fishing industry.

**Justification**

**[Section 2 - Definitions]{.underline}**

**N/A**

**[Section 3 -- Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

1.  **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
    Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

> The Department is responsible for timely assessment of impacts of
> natural disasters on fishing communities and operations, and for
> determining and implementing appropriate responses.

2.  **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> Port Agents are located in strategic and often remote locations, where
> their job demands maintaining close relationships with local fishing
> interests. After Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the Port Agents
> experienced devastation first-hand, both in their personal lives and
> at their duty stations. Fishing communities were severely impacted;
> communications were virtually impossible and roads were impassable.
> The Port Agents functioned largely as independent and isolated units,
> and often were the only Federal presence.

3.  **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> Port Agents in evacuation zones returned to work sites within hours or
> days, traveling great distances; negotiating impassable roads; and
> making repeated trips into the worse-hit areas. They collected
> detailed information, conducted accurate damage assessments, and
> arranged with local fishermen for Federal contractors to conduct vital
> long-term impact assessments. Their reports included photographs and
> quantitative descriptions of the conditions of fishing communities and
> the commercial fishing industry, including vessels, ports, dockside
> facilities, seafood dealers and seafood processors. These Port Agents
> continued to be critical points of contact for many months following
> the storm. Further, several Port Agents drove great distances with
> supplies to rescue fellow Port Agents in areas greatest hit.

4.  **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

> The reports submitted by Port Agents assisted in determining the true
> economic impact of Katrina and Rita on fishing enterprises by
> presenting a realistic picture of the devastation to the fishing
> industry. State and Federal government entities and resource managers
> used these reports to guide their responses to the devastation to
> fisheries and local economies.

**[Section 4 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

1.  **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?**

> Initial reports and damage assessments were provided within one to
> three days after the hurricanes. Both reports and support for local
> fishing communities were ramped-up within a week and continue to the
> present.

2.  **What is the short-term impact (1--2 years) of the accomplishment
    on NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> The reports submitted gave accurate preliminary estimates of the
> damage sustained by the commercial fishing industry and local
> economies; supplied economists with information for attaching an
> estimated dollar-value to the damage; gave legislators and fishery
> managers details on the scope and depth of the devastation and
> immediate steps needed, including financial and non-monetary
> assistance, and regulations, for achieving short-term recovery.

3.  **What is the long-term impact (3--5 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> The reports provided new baseline fishery data for monitoring the
> long-term recovery of fishing communities and the commercial fishing
> sector; assessing the success of post-hurricane recovery programs; and
> ensuring the continued relevance and effectiveness of federal
> government recovery programs.

4.  **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

> Fishery economists are using the reports and information provided by
> the port agents to estimate dollar value of losses to the fishing
> industry and communities in the Gulf of Mexico. These economic reports
> validate the need and aid required to the industry in the form of
> loans, grants and subsidies from Federal assistance programs.
> Additionally, other Federal agencies are using these reports to
> develop strategies for responding to the impact of the hurricanes on
> the fishery-related, local economy in the Gulf of Mexico (e.g.
> restaurant trade; equipment supplies).

5.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation?**

> N/A

6.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

> For the fishing community, the Port Agents were, and continue to be,
> an invaluable source of support, information, and service. Meeting
> with members of the fishing community on a routine basis, the Port
> Agents excelled in providing critical information, assisting in
> completion of applications for aid; and conveying the plight, issues
> and conditions faced by the fishing sector to state and Federal
> agencies.

**Susan Abbott-Jamieson Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 26**

**[Nominees]{.underline}**

Susan Abbott-Jamieson, Ph.D.

NOAA Fisheries Service, Office of Science & Technology

Social Scientist

ZPIV

Rita Curtis, PhD.

NOAA Fisheries Service, Office of Science & Technology

Supervisory Economist

ZPV

Stephen Holiman, PhD.

NOAA Fisheries Service, Southeast Regional Office

Supervisory Economist

GS14

Palma Ingles, Ph.D.

NOAA Fisheries Service, Southeast Regional Office

Social Scientist

GS13

Larry Perrusso, Ph.D.

NOAA Fisheries Service, Southeast Fisheries Science Center

Industry Economist

ZPIII

James Waters, Ph.D.

NOAA Fisheries Service, Southeast Fisheries Science Center

Supervisory Economist

ZPIV

**[Category]{.underline}**

Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

The Team quickly provided systematic quantitative assessments of
hurricane impacts to the fishing industry and coastal communities to aid
in forming strategic decisions to rebuild the impacted area.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For conducting a rapid assessment of Gulf fishing communities
post-Katrina and ongoing assessments of impacts to / recovery of Gulf
fishing industry.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

The Team is honored for implementing a rapid, systematic assessment of
Gulf fishing communities immediately following Hurricane Katrina and for
on-going analyses of the economic impacts to and recovery of the fishing
industry. These assessments document extensive damage to fleets and
marine-related firms and infrastructure caused by Katrina. Results
enabled policy makers to make informed decisions on how to allocate
rebuilding funds and aid; provided a new baseline for fishery
management; and contributed to the basis for the President's
supplemental funding request for Katrina to Congress.

**Justification**

**[Section 2 - Definitions]{.underline}**

None.

**[Section 3 -- Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

1.  **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
    Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

> Post-Katrina, the immediate challenge facing the Department was to
> assess the impacts of the hurricane on Gulf fisheries and fishing
> communities, including fisheries-related infrastructure and
> businesses. Social and economic analyses are routine to the
> Department's operational research and monitoring effort. However, the
> magnitude of the destruction, geographic scope of the assessment, and
> the intensity of demand for timely information put unprecedented
> demands on the program.

2.  **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> Damage assessments required extensive fieldwork in regions lacking
> basic infrastructure and virtually no reporting capability. The high
> priority policy makers placed on timely, accurate assessments meant
> the Team had to quickly deploy experienced field workers and establish
> an assessment framework that could meet the accelerated timetable.

3.  **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> Building upon initial assessments by NOAA port agents that presented
> initial descriptions of conditions in the communities, the
> multi-disciplinary team of social scientists deployed to the region to
> systematically assess damages to fishing vessels, and shore-side firms
> and infrastructure. The Team's assessment efforts included
> multi-sector monitoring and analysis of commercial fisheries,
> recreational fisheries, and seafood trade.

4.  **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

> The Team developed an independent, systematic documentation of
> Katrina's impacts on Gulf fisheries and fishing communities. Results
> demonstrated that virtually every aspect of the marine-related
> infrastructure (docks, piers, shipping), businesses (seafood dealers,
> processors, bait shops) and the commercial harvest and for-hire
> charter and head-boat fleets in Mississippi and eastern Louisiana had
> experienced major losses, with many sectors still operating at 80% or
> less three months post Katrina. These results were used in NOAA, DOC
> and Congressional briefings; Congressional testimony; and a weekly
> report to the President; and contributed to the basis for the
> President's supplemental funding request for Katrina to Congress.

**[Section 4 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

1.  **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?**

> Within two weeks of landfall, NOAA deployed a team of social
> scientists to assess Katrina's impact on Gulf fishing communities.
> Concurrent to this field work, which required three months to complete
> in all states, the Team began a now six month effort to assess the
> initial economic impacts and the recovery of the fishing industry in
> fishing-dependent communities.

2.  **What is the short-term impact (1--2 years) of the accomplishment
    on NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> The suite of assessments conducted by the Team demonstrate the
> tremendous utility gained by maintaining baseline socioeconomic
> information on commercial fleets, recreational fishing participants
> and fishing communities, including shore-side firms and marine-related
> infrastructure. The Team's efforts significantly increased knowledge
> of the Gulf of Mexico fishing industry and fishing communities, and,
> in turn, redefined the requirements for economic and social impact
> assessments.

3.  **What is the long-term impact (3--5 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> The initial baseline and subsequent social and economic impact
> analyses are proving invaluable to policy-makers and demonstrate the
> need to provide similar strategic information for all coastal
> communities.

4.  **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

> No other federal agency is providing the Administration and lawmakers
> with as in-depth and comprehensive detail on industry losses as those
> provided by this Team on the fishing industry and fishing communities.
> These assessments significantly redefine the major issues that federal
> agencies need to be prepared to address in the case of an emergency.

5.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation?**

> This work sets a new standard for the state-of-the-art in economic and
> socio-cultural monitoring and impact assessments.

6.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

> The damage assessments to fleets, shore-side firms and infrastructure
> provide a major service to those engaged in the fishing industry in
> this region. Theses assessments provide independent, systematic
> evaluations of damage for policy makers rather than the anecdotal or
> splintered assessments provided to them by other agencies.

**Northwest Fisheries Science Center**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 27**

**[Organization]{.underline}**

Northwest Fisheries Science Center

**[Category]{.underline}**

Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

Conducted time-critical analyses to assess seafood safety of fishery
resources from the northern Gulf of Mexico following Hurricane Katrina,
providing crucial data to support a \$700M fishery.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For quickly analyzing seafood from the Gulf of Mexico to assure its
safety for public consumption following passage of Hurricane Katrina.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

Following Hurricane Katrina, intense public concern existed regarding
safety of seafood from the Gulf of Mexico. Within two weeks of Katrina,
NOAA's Northwest Fisheries Science Center received over 400 samples of
water, fish and shellfish for analysis of chemical and microbial
contamination. Laboratory staff worked around the clock to complete
multiple analyses of samples within ten weeks, with five separate
reports of no harmful impacts. Timely provision of this scientifically
credible data was critical to assure the public that seafood from
hurricane-affected areas was safe and wholesome.

**Justification**

**[Section 2 - Definitions]{.underline}**

NWFSC=Northwest Fisheries Science Center; PAHs=polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons; PCBs=polychlorinated biphenyls.

**[Section 3 -- Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

1.  **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
    Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

> To determine seafood safety for the Gulf of Mexico fishery as rapidly
> as possible following Hurricane Katrina.

2.  **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> Following Hurricane Katrina, intense public concern existed regarding
> safety of seafood from the Gulf of Mexico. The challenge was to
> determine whether a basis existed for closing the fishery due to
> contamination by chemicals or microbial pathogens. A swift
> determination was necessary in order to provide data for a timely
> management decision.
>
> Due to the hurricane damaged facilities at the National Seafood
> Inspection Laboratory in Pascagoula, Mississippi, the NWFSC was asked
> to use their longstanding expertise to provide state-of-the-art
> laboratory analyses.

3.  **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> In less than two weeks, the NWFSC staff scaled up analytical capacity
> to analyze water, sediment, and fish and shellfish samples for
> chemical (e.g. PCB and PAH) and microbial contaminants, including
> *Vibrio* sp. and enteric bacteria. Analytical equipment ran 24 hours a
> day, seven days a week. More than 400 samples from the Gulf of Mexico
> were analyzed, all of which were done with very low limits of
> detection and robust quality assurance/quality control. The resulting
> data could be used to evaluate the risk to human health by a wide
> range of agencies and user groups.

4.  **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

> The chemical and microbiological analyses verified the safety of
> seafood in the Gulf of Mexico fishery. Five separate reports were
> produced and posted to NOAA's Internet site, some within weeks of the
> first sampling, and were the first reports to demonstrate that the
> seafood from the northern Gulf of Mexico was safe to eat. Reports of
> these analyses were widely cited in the media. This scientifically
> credible dataset was instrumental in allowing the \$700 million
> fishery in the Gulf of Mexico to remain open. Public confidence in the
> seafood supply was maintained.

**[Section 4 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

1.  **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?** Ten weeks

> **When was the accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**
>
> By December 31, 2005, more than 400 samples were analyzed, and 5
> separate reports were provided to the Department.

2.  **What is the short-term impact (1--2 years) of the accomplishment
    on NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> This achievement demonstrates that Department scientists can mount a
> rapid large-scale effort to assure seafood safety in the face of
> intense public scrutiny and concern. It also provides a valuable
> example for evaluating human health concerns related to a fishery
> after a major hurricane or another catastrophic event releases
> hazardous materials into nearshore ecosystems. It is anticipated that
> similar emergency responses will be needed in the long-term in the
> Gulf and in other coastal areas. Analytical facilities will need to be
> prepared for similar emergencies, and the laboratories of the NWFSC
> provide a template for such preparedness.

3.  **What is the long-term impact (3--5 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> The effective response to this environmental emergency shows that such
> responses can save millions of dollars, as well as human lives in the
> event of actual widespread biological and chemical contamination.

4.  **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

> The accomplishment provides an example of how federal environmental
> agencies should respond to emergency situations to address concerns
> regarding oceans and human health. This issue is currently being
> addressed by an interagency Oceans and Human Health working group of
> the Joint Subcommittee on Ocean Science and Technology.

5.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation?**

> No

**6. Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how?**

> Yes. The service provided by the NWFSC demonstrates how public
> concerns about unknown hazards in the nation's fisheries can be
> effectively addressed. Moreover, a timely and credible response was
> required to protect public health in the event that severe
> contamination was present. In the past, fisheries were closed in the
> absence of timely information. The accomplishments of this analytical
> facility provided an invaluable service to the nation's fishing
> industry.

**Bernadita Anulacion Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NMFS**

**Nomination \# 28**

**[Nominees]{.underline}**

Bernadita Anulacion

NOAA Fisheries, NWFSC

Oceanographer, GS-11

Jon Buzitis

NOAA Fisheries, NWFSC

Research Chemist, GS-11

Tracy Collier

NOAA Fisheries, NWFSC

Supervisory Research Chemist, ZP-5

Shailer Cummings

NOAA Research, AOML

Oceanographer, ZP-4

William Mowitt

NOAA Corps (current billet NWFSC)

Lieutenant

Mark Peterson

NOAA Fisheries, NWFSC

Microbiologist, GS-12

Linda Rhodes

NOAA Fisheries, NWFSC

Microbiologist, GS-12

Elizabeth Scott-Denton

NOAA Fisheries, SEFSC

Research Fishery Biologist, GS-12

Sean Sol

NOAA Fisheries, NWFSC

Oceanographer, GS-11

Gina Ylitalo

NOAA Fisheries, NWFSC

Supervisory Research Chemist, ZP-4

**[Category]{.underline}**

Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**[Significance of the Accomplishment]{.underline}**

Two weeks after Hurricane Katrina, hundreds of Gulf of Mexico fish and
shellfish samples were collected and available to analyze for safety of
the seafood, minimizing potential large economic losses.

**[Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For conduct of field operations immediately following Hurricane Katrina
that were vital for ensuring that seafood was safe for public
consumption.

**[Program Booklet Text]{.underline}**

Organizing in less than 24 hours, the Team mounted a crucial field
effort on the *NOAA Ship Nancy Foster* to address public concern
regarding seafood safety in the Gulf of Mexico after Hurricane Katrina.
The Team was underway within 72 hours, using their expertise in field
assessment, toxicology and microbiology, to collect samples around the
clock and in the face of unknown hazards. Ten days later, hundreds of
Gulf of Mexico fish and seafood were delivered to NOAA laboratories for
analysis of their safety for public consumption, thereby saving millions
of dollars in potential fishery losses.

**Justification**

**[Section 2 - Definitions]{.underline}**

COC = chain of custody; NAS = Naval Air Station; QA = quality assurance.

**[Section 3 -- Challenge-Context-Action-Result Model]{.underline}**

> **What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
> Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**
>
> To assemble a Team with expertise in field operations, toxicology, and
> microbiology, deploy to coastal areas hardest hit by Hurricane
> Katrina, obtain samples that could be tested for seafood safety, and
> accomplish this within days of notification.
>
> **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
> challenge or problem?**
>
> Intense public concern regarding seafood safety in the Gulf of Mexico
> existed after Hurricane Katrina (*Nature* [437]{.underline}:462). The
> challenge was to rapidly determine whether there was a basis to close
> the fishery due to contamination by chemicals or pathogens.
> Simultaneously, many facilities and vessels in the region were damaged
> or destroyed. Thus, expertise from outside the region was required;
> and scientists from several NOAA laboratories were asked to organize
> and meet this challenge. In addition to extraordinary logistical
> considerations, there were unknown biological and chemical hazards in
> the waters to be sampled.
>
> **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
> challenge or problem?**
>
> Within 6 hours of notification on a Friday morning, the Team assembled
> over 1400 pounds of heavy sampling gear that could not be transported
> as baggage on airline flights; so it was shipped via courier to the
> Pensacola NAS. During the next 24 hours, a ton of additional gear was
> assembled and packed. The Team was on-board the *NOAA Ship Nancy
> Foster* by Monday. During this same time, the Team wrote field
> sampling protocols, developed the cruise plan, devised safety
> precautions for dealing with unknown chemical and biological hazards,
> and rigged for trawling and sediment operations on a vessel that was
> not designed for it. Samples were collected using COC and QA
> procedures and delivered to analytical labs within 10 days of setting
> sail.
>
> **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
> qualitative terms?**
>
> This Team was the first from an agency to survey coastal waters for
> environmental damage and contamination, post-Katrina. The rapid
> collection of hundreds of samples allowed the Department to verify the
> safety of Gulf of Mexico seafood. The resulting scientifically sound
> dataset was instrumental in enabling the \$700 million fishery in the
> Gulf of Mexico to remain open.

**[Section 4 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

1.  **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?**

> Two weeks.
>
> **When was the accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**
>
> By September 19, 2005, more than 400 samples of fish, crab, shrimp,
> water, and sediments were collected, documented, and delivered to
> analytical facilities. All samples were collected using high levels of
> QA and maintained under COC until delivery.

2.  **What is the short-term impact (1--2 years) of the accomplishment
    on NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> In the short-term, this accomplishment supported the Department's and
> NOAA's missions to ensure the safety of the Nation's seafood supply.
> It also contributed to preventing the potential loss of millions of
> dollars from the region's fisheries, having an estimated annual value
> of \$700M.

3.  **What is the long-term impact (3--5 years) of the accomplishment on
    NOAA's or the Department's mission?**

> This effective response to the environmental emergency indicates that
> such responses can potentially save hundreds of millions of dollars,
> as well as human lives in the event of actual widespread biological
> and chemical contamination. Lessons learned are expected to lead to
> the development of a national seafood safety assessment capability
> that will include a robust field response capability.

4.  **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

> This sampling operation provides a template for all agencies with
> human health and safety as elements of their missions for collecting
> critical data under extreme duress in emergency situations, thereby
> addressing concerns regarding impacts of environmental catastrophes on
> human health.

5.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation?**

> No.

6.  **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

> Yes, the Team's achievement demonstrates an effective approach for
> addressing public concerns about unknown hazards in the Nation's
> fisheries. In the past, fisheries were closed in the absence of timely
> information. Moreover, in the event of actual severe contamination, a
> timely and scientifically credible response will be required to
> protect public health. The accomplishments of this first response Team
> provided an invaluable service to the nation's fishing industry.

**NOS NOMINATIONS**

# Christopher Parish

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Heroism**

**NOS**

**Nomination \# 29**

# 

Hurricanes Katrina and Rita Response

[1. Full name of nominee:]{.underline} Christopher A. Parish

[2. Type of Recognition:]{.underline} Gold

[3. Category:]{.underline} Heroism

[4. Major Line or Staff Office:]{.underline} National Ocean Service

[5. Position title and grade:]{.underline} Engineering Technician, GS-11

[6. Past awards:]{.underline} None

[7. Nominator:]{.underline} Michael Szabados

> NOAA/NOS Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services
> (CO-OPS)

[8. Significance of Accomplishment:]{.underline} Chris Parish aided the
survival of Hurricane Katrina victims by personally providing food,
water, and fuel to those without means; and later, as a Federal
volunteer, continued to aid thousands more.

[9. Certificate text:]{.underline} For providing post--Hurricane Katrina
humanitarian aid to victims in rural Mississippi and exemplary Federal
volunteer program support in Louisiana.

[10. Program Booklet text]{.underline}: Chris Parish is honored for
providing humanitarian aid to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. He
initially traveled to rural Mississippi to assist his elderly parents.
Seeing others in distress, he chain-sawed his way into neighborhoods,
brought in fuel and water from great distances, secured meals for the
poor, and provided critical assistance to emergency personnel. Chris
returned to the Gulf under the Federal volunteer program and served with
great distinction as a liaison officer to St. Charles Parish, where he
coordinated daily activities of a dozen organizations providing critical
aid.

[Definitions:]{.underline}

FEMA -- Federal Emergency Management Agency

[11. Award Justification]{.underline}:

*What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?*

When disaster struck and his nation needed him, Mr. Parish responded at
all levels, personally, professionally, and organizationally, to help
bring assistance to Americans in need.

*What was the context in which the nominees addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?*

Mr. Parish initially traveled to Hattiesburg, MS, to assist his elderly
parents through the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Food and
fuel were scarce, people were trapped in neighborhoods by large downed
trees, and food banks, slow to be set up, had no mobile services to
assist those without transportation.

*What specific actions did the nominees take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?*

Mr. Parish realized that no immediate help was on the way, so he checked
on neighbors, friends, and others in the community. He chain-sawed trees
and propped up power lines so vehicles could move about. He made
numerous trips and traveled hundreds of miles to unaffected areas to
find and bring back fuel, food, ice, and water. He secured and
distributed Meals Ready to Eat to the most needy. He helped the elderly,
mothers and babies that had no food or milk for over three days. Mr.
Parish put himself at personal risk of robbery and dodged looters. He
provided local knowledge to emergency response personnel when they
arrived and began to set up local operations.

He returned home and immediately applied to the Federal volunteer
program. He was selected and extended several times as a liaison officer
for St. Charles Parish, where he managed rescue, recovery, and
assistance operations of a dozen agencies: National Guard air and water
rescue, Red Cross, Corps of Engineers, Social Security, Small Business
Administration, public assistance, community relations, housing
inspectors, security detachments, and private contractors hired to pick
up debris.

*What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?*

Mr. Parish's personal actions enabled dozens of citizens to survive the
first few weeks of Katrina's aftermath. The critical Federal volunteer
work done by Mr. Parish directed Federal resources to where they were
most needed, aiding thousands of citizens. All of his actions were above
and beyond the normal call of duty.

[12. Additional Information:]{.underline}

*How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?*

Chris Parish personally provided aid to the hurricane victims from
August 30 through September 12, 2005, and served in the FEMA Federal
volunteer program from October 10 through December 20, 2005.

*What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?*

Mr. Parish's local knowledge and professionalism helped make and
facilitate connections between the local community and federal response
teams when they arrived, ensuring that assistance was efficiently
directed where it was most needed. While a FEMA volunteer, his
affiliation as a Department employee was known and his outstanding
professionalism reflected extremely well on the Department's
organizational excellence. The St. Charles Parish President sent a
letter to NOAA stating, "I send few letters of commendation but having
Chris work here in St. Charles Parish has made a real difference to my
staff and me. St. Charles Paris is a better place because of his
efforts."

*What is the long- term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?*

Mr. Parish established many good contacts and developed excellent
working relationships with Department constituents throughout the Gulf
region that will be of great benefit in the future development of
partnerships to further Departmental missions. His accomplishments
significantly advanced the Department's credibility in the region by the
outstanding manner in which he conducted himself. He demonstrated
professionalism and dedication to duty in all his daily contacts with
numerous Federal, state, and local agencies.

*Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?*

His excellent work ethic and competent leadership reflected positively
on the Department and was a critical support to the FEMA response
efforts in the area by directly aiding in the survival, recovery and
improved quality of life of thousands of storm victims. Mr. Parish's
actions helped FEMA regain some of the confidence lost by the local
community as a result of the initial slow response effort. His
experience in the Federal volunteer program was the one positive
highlight cited in a January 30 article in the *Federal Times* that was
critical of the Federal volunteer effort.

Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?

N/A

Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support?

N/A

**Frances Dortch Group**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Organizational Development**

**NOS**

**Nomination \# 30**

# New England Red Tide Response

**1. Full Names of Nominees:**

Frances Quay Dortch (pronunciation Frances Kway Dorch)

Marc Suddleson (pronunciation Mark Sud-del-son)

Susan Banahan (pronunciation Susan Ban-a-han)

Bruce Vogt (pronunciation Bruce Vote)

Kevin Chu (pronunciation Kevin Chew)

Alicia Jarboe (pronunciation A-lee-sha Jar-bo)

**2. Type of Recogoniton**

Gold Medal

**3. Award Category**

Organizational Development

**4**. **Major Line and Staff Office for Each Nominee**

Frances Quay Dortch (NOS/NCCOS/CSCOR)

Marc Suddleson (NOS/NCCOS/CSCOR)

Susan Banahan (NOS/NCCOS/CSCOR)

Bruce Vogt (NOS/AA)

Kevin Chu (NMFS/NER)

Alica Jarboe (NMFS/MB)

**5. Position, Title, and Grade for Each Nominee**

Frances Quay Dortch, Oceanographer, GS-1360-14

Marc Suddleson, Oceanographer, GS-1360-14

Susan Banahan, Oceanographer, GS-1360-14

Bruce Vogt, Program Analyst, GS-343-11

Kevin Chu, Fishery Policy Analyst ZP-4

Alicia Jarboe, Program Analyst ZA-4

**6. Past Awards for Each Nominee**

Marc Suddleson: Bronze Medal Award 2002, 2003

Susan Banahan: Bronze Medal Award 2002

**7. Nominator's Name, Line, and Staff Office**

Robert Magnien, Ph.D., NOS/NCCOS/CSCOR

**What is the significance of this accomplishment?**

A cross-NOAA team helped Federal/State managers respond to a health
emergency due to a massive toxic HAB in the Gulf of Maine. No human
illness occurred and regional HAB response ability improved.

**I. Certificate Text**

For quick action and exceptional initiative helping shellfish managers
protect human health in the face of the 2005 New England harmful algal
bloom.

**II. Program Text**

In 2005, New England experienced its worst toxic harmful algal bloom in
over 30 years. Some shellfish concentrated so much algal toxin that
eating even a few could have been fatal. The NOAA team responded to this
health emergency with exceptional speed, dedication and initiative. NOS
funded and coordinated efforts to monitor the bloom. NMFS implemented
management measures to prevent consumption of toxic shellfish. No human
shellfish poisoning occurred, regional coordination for HAB response
improved, and processes are in place to respond if there is a recurrence
in 2006.

**III. Justification**

**Section 1 -- Definitions**

**Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) --** unusual growth of algae that has a
negative impact on people, other animals, or the environment. Most are
harmful because they produce potent toxins that can cause serious
illness and/or death. In some cases these toxins accumulate in shellfish
consumed by people.

**Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP)---**human illness caused by
consumption of shellfish contaminated with potent neurotoxins
(saxitoxins and derivatives) produced by several groups of algae. The
illness is characterized by tingling, numbness, ataxia, giddiness,
drowsiness, fever, rash, and staggering. The most severe cases result in
respiratory arrest within 24 hours of consumption of the toxic
shellfish.

**FDA** -- U.S. Food and Drug Administration

**GOMOOS** -- Gulf of Maine Ocean Observing System

**Section 2 - Award Justification**

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

NOAA responded to a massive toxic HAB that spread rapidly throughout New
England. Shellfish became extremely toxic to humans within days,
requiring an immediate response, but management responsibilities were
fragmented. States normally conduct shellfish monitoring in state waters
and close shellfish harvesting to protect human health. In federal
waters FDA determines health risks but NOAA manages shellfish
harvesting. In NOAA, NOS funds regional ecosystem research to improve
HAB detection and prediction while NMFS has regulatory authority. The
team members had to develop a One-NOAA response, rapidly forging new
communications lines to assist state monitoring, predict bloom movement,
regulate shellfish harvesting in federal waters, and inform NOAA and
Congress about the severity and impacts of the bloom to minimize
economic losses and protect public health. These activities support the
Department's Strategic Plan Goal 3 to protect, restore, and manage the
use of coastal and ocean resources through an ecosystem approach to
management.

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

New England experienced the worst HAB in 30 years in 2005.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

-   NOS approved immediate emergency HAB sampling to monitor bloom
    extent, providing essential data to inform development of Federal
    and State strategies to protect human health.

-   NMFS invoked emergency measures to close federal waters within a
    week (normally takes months).

-   NMFS coordinated NOAA response to States' petitions to the Secretary
    for a declaration of a commercial fishing failure.

-   NOS awarded \$540K to continue sampling through 2006 within 3 weeks
    (normally 6-9 mo). Staffed Undersecretary Lautenbacher at press
    conference in Boston to announce funding.

-   Nominees ensured NOAA decision-makers had timely information on the
    bloom by developing a situation report, updating web pages, and
    briefing interested Congressional staff.

-   NMFS held a follow-up workshop to prepare for a coordinated response
    to a possible reoccurrence.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

No human illnesses were reported.

**Section 3 - Additional Information**

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

NOAA's response began in May 2005 within days of initial bloom reports
and lasted until the bloom dissipated in September 2005. Funding and
response capability are in place for monitoring for a recurrence in
2006.

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

In September 2005 NOAA reopened federal waters closed by the bloom to
the harvest of most bivalve mollusks. States also reopened many areas to
shellfish harvesting. Key partnerships between NOAA, FDA, state
government, academia and affected industry were forged to sustain future
responses.

**What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

These efforts will help State and Federal fisheries managers monitor
bloom recurrence and will further longstanding NOAA goals to develop
regional, predictive HAB models for forecasting future blooms. The bloom
highlighted issues about New England shellfish management with regard to
HAB toxins in federal waters that NOAA will address in future efforts.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

NOAA efforts are critical to support efforts of FDA and State health and
fisheries agencies to ensure that seafood available through normal
retail markets and restaurants remains safe to eat.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

The NOAA response utilized new detection and prediction of HABs
developed through ongoing Gulf of Maine ecosystems projects, and relied
on data from GOMOOS. The new information gained during this event will
feed back into modeling efforts to improve future monitoring, and
predictions to further mitigate health threats and economic damage from
such blooms.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how?**

Prior to this event, coordinated response capability for HAB events of
this magnitude did not exist in New England. The One-NOAA response
produced a Federal, State, and academic partnership that prevented any
known cases of PSP. Rapid action to collect, analyze and communicate
critical scientific information to managers allowed quick decisions to
protect human health through State and Federal shellfish harvest
closures. NOAA and its partners are committed to solidifying these
relationships, increasing regional readiness for the next major HAB
event.

**Office of Response and Restoration**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Personal and Professional Excellence**

**NOS**

**Nomination \# 31**

**ORR Response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita**

1**. Full name of nominee(s):** NOAA Office of Response and Restoration

2**. Type of Recognition (Gold or Silver):** Organizational Gold Award

3**. Category:** Personal and Professional Excellence

4**. Major Line or Staff Office for each nominee:** NOS

5**. Position title and grade for each nominee**: N/A

6\. **Past awards:** Bronze Award 2005

7**. Nominator's name and major Line or Staff Office:** Thomas Callahan,
ORR/NOS

**What is the significance of this accomplishment?**

The organization provided critical scientific support in response to 8
million gallons of oil released throughout a widespread area from TX to
AL.

**I. Certificate Text:**

For outstanding response in mitigating the environmental impacts caused
by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita on the Gulf Coast.

**II. Program Booklet Citation:**

The organization is honored for outstanding response to the
environmental impacts caused by the hurricanes. ORR mobilized instantly
and was one of the first agencies to respond on-scene. ORR scientific
support actions in the ensuing months greatly aided federal and state
agencies and private industry in responding to over 8 million gallons of
oil and hazardous materials released and identifying thousands of
stranded vessels. The swift and effective work of ORR mitigated the
adverse impacts to the environment and resulted in a more effective and
efficient cleanup throughout the Gulf region.

**III. Justification:**

**Section 1. Definitions**

ORR - NOAA Office of Response and Restoration

USCG -- United States Coast Guard

USEPA -- United States Environmental Protection Agency

NGS -- National Geodetic Survey

GOM -- Gulf of Mexico

**Section 2. Justification**

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

The challenge was to protect and restore the coastal resources of the
GOM states impacted by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. This directly
supports the DOC goal (3.2) to enhance the conservation and management
of coastal and marine resources to meet America's economic and
environmental needs.

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

The magnitude of the impacts to the environment was unprecedented. Over
8 million gallons of oil were released, and thousands of vessels were
sunk or stranded. The number of incidents, magnitude of the spills,
disruption of the region's infrastructure, and difficulty of bringing
support staff into the region made for an extraordinary emergency.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

ORR was one of the first federal agencies to respond on-scene, staffing
multiple command posts, providing USCG, USEPA and states with critical
scientific information to support cleanup and recovery. This included
the assessment, prioritization and mitigation of over 400 hazardous
materials releases. ORR provided essential management support by
graphically documenting pollution cases, waterway closures, New Orleans
flood levels, and locations of sunken and stranded vessels. ORR staff
collected data at the larger spill sites for damage assessment and
restoration purposes. This work was accomplished by dedicated ORR
scientists with unique skills and experience, working in areas with
little or no infrastructure. Their dedication enabled them to overcome
personal hardships, including the loss of personal residences and the
lack of normal lodging, while sustaining long working hours over many
months.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

The actions of ORR resulted in a more efficient and effective cleanup,
thereby mitigating environmental impacts. ORR identified hundreds of
pollution incidents, and through careful monitoring and coordination,
cleanup operations were performed effectively, enhancing environmental
recovery and restoration. Assessment work at the largest oil spills
enables the pursuit of prompt restoration to minimize natural resource
impacts.

S**ection 3. Additional Information**

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

ORR's response began even before the hurricane made landfall on
8/31/2005. Local ORR staff evacuated with their response gear, returning
after the passage of the hurricanes to staff multiple command posts.
Response and damage assessment work is still ongoing and will be for
many months.

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

Effective spill cleanups, guided by ORR, minimized the environmental
impacts of the spills and enabled many facilities to return to operation
sooner than expected, thus fostering the region's economic recovery and
the nation's fuel supply.

**What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

Due to the magnitude of environmental degradation, restoration of the
region will take many years. ORR is engaged with federal and state
trustees and industry to develop partnerships and pursue restoration
through natural resource damage assessment.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

ORR's coordination of scientific information in support of the response
has enhanced NOAA's reputation as a leader among federal, state, and
industry emergency responders. For their outstanding support, ORR
received a Meritorious Team Award from the USCG.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

ORR utilized remote sensing technology to great advantage. Aerial
imagery from NGS was used to scale the impacts to oil facilities and
coastal communities. ORR employed the latest technology, producing
high-end graphics and providing situation awareness for multiple command
posts. These products captured the magnitude of the hurricanes' impacts
at a detail that would not have been possible using standard technology.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how? **

ORR provided exceptional service under extraordinary conditions to
federal, state, and industry response partners. ORR's integrated
scientific support team dedicated itself to complex, demanding response
operations over an extended period of time. It was a total office effort
requiring on-scene responders, support team scientists, and
administration staff. By supporting our partners in this emergency, ORR
provided extraordinary service and stewardship to the region and the
Nation.

**NOS, National Geodetic Survey and NMAO, Aircraft Operations Center**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NOS**

**Nomination \# 32**

1\. Full name of nominee(s)

NOAA National Ocean Service, National Geodetic Survey

NOAA Office of Marine and Aviation Operations, Aircraft Operations
Center

2\. Type OF Recognition (Gold or Silver): Gold\
3. Category: Customer Service\
4. Major Line or Staff Office for each nominee:

NOAA National Ocean Service, National Geodetic Survey

NOAA Office of Marine and Aviation Operations, Aircraft Operations
Center

5\. Position title and grade for each nominee

N/A\
6. [Past
awards](http://www.wfm.noaa.gov/awards/admin_award/awards_history.html)
(excluding Cash-in-Your-Account and Special Act Awards) for each nominee

N/A\
7. Nominator's name and major Line or Staff Office

Nominator: Mike L. Aslaksen, NOAA National Ocean Service, National
Geodetic Survey

8\. Justification:

Gold Medal as Joint Organizational Award for the "Rapid response
acquisition and distribution of post Hurricane Katrina airborne
imagery", including two organizations

Nominator: Mike L. Aslaksen, NOAA National Ocean Service, National
Geodetic Survey

NOAA National Ocean Service, National Geodetic Survey

NOAA Office of Marine and Aviation Operations, Aircraft Operations
Center

**What is the significance of this accomplishment?**

Following Hurricane Katrina the team rapidly acquired and disseminated
over 8300 aerial images of the Gulf coast region. Imagery was used by
victims of the storm and as an aid to emergency personnel.

[**[Certificate
Text:]{.underline}**](http://www.rdc.noaa.gov/~hrmo/medaltextlimitations.htm) 
maximum of 150 characters

For the rapid response acquisition and distribution of post Hurricane
Katrina airborne imagery and critical support of government response
efforts.

[**[Program Booklet
Text:]{.underline}**](http://www.rdc.noaa.gov/~hrmo/medaltextlimitations.htm#Program Text) 
maximum of 600 characters; not required for Bronze nominations.

The organizations are honored for their rapid response acquisition and
distribution of post Hurricane Katrina aerial imagery. NOAA began damage
assessment flights on August 30, 2005 and collected over 8300 images.
The images were distributed through the NOAA website within 12 hours and
were used to support critical emergency response efforts. NOAA used the
imagery internally to identify areas of shoreline change and marine
infrastructure damage, which assisted nautical charting efforts,
hazardous material and oil spill response and damage assessment.

[Justification]{.underline}

Section 2 - Award Justification (Maximum number of characters for all
four questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.)

• **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

The nominees' response to Hurricane Katrina is related to DOC's
strategic goal 3 to observe, protect and manage the Earth's resources to
promote environmental stewardship and NOAA's mission goal of Commerce
and Transportation. The activities directly supported the nation's
commerce with information for safe, efficient and environmentally sound
transportation.

• **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

In the wake of Hurricane Katrina there was a dire need for up-to-date
airborne imagery to support damage assessment and recovery efforts. The
NOAA Cessna Citation quickly responded to meet this imagery requirement
because of its fast speed and flexibility to meet mission requirements.

• **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

The NOAA crew rapidly mobilized and began imagery acquisitions the day
after Hurricane Katrina made landfall in Louisiana. The experienced crew
adeptly overcame weather constraints without delay to the mission. The
nominees worked exceptionally long hours and used innovative methods to
post an unprecedented amount of data to the NOAA website. These images
were critical to response efforts led by federal and state agencies
including the Department of Homeland Security (FEMA and the U.S. Coast
Guard), the Department of Defense (Army Corps of Engineers, Navy, Army,
and NGA) and the states of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. The quick
action of the nominees in placing the images on-line allowed the images
to be freely used by citizens to determine the status of property and
homes. Images were further integrated into Google Earth's web services,
allowing private firms such as insurance agencies to expedite insurance
claims.

• **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

Results were quantifiable in terms of the amount of data collected. Over
8300 individual aerial images were acquired, processed and disseminated
along with over 70 million web hits posted and 60 million image file
downloads as of September 9, 2005. NOAA's web servers experienced record
"hits," demonstrating both the public service value and the unique
visibility that this effort provided for NOAA.

Section 3 - Additional Information (Maximum number of characters for all
six questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.)

• **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?  When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

The acquisition of the post-hurricane airborne imagery took place
between August 30 and September 8, 2005. In the weeks following the
acquisition much time went into maintaining the web delivery system,
processing the navigation files from the flights to create geographic
information system (GIS) products and maps as well as fielding questions
about the imagery from our partners and the public.

• **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission? **

The short-term accomplishment related to NOAA's mission was the rapid
acquisition and delivery of the post-hurricane digital imagery. The
nominees delivered data to the people in need within 12 hours. In an
emergency situation such as Hurricane Katrina the timeliness of data
delivery is a critical element.

• **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

The long-term accomplishment related to NOAA's mission is that the rapid
response experience helped to formalize the role of NOAA remote sensing
capabilities in the National Response Plan. Emergency Service Function
(ESF) #13 within the Department of Homeland Security National Response
Plan is related to public safety and security. Under this ESF NOAA
provides law enforcement and security capabilities, nautical charting,
surveys, tidal and geodetic services, and geo-referenced coastal imagery
in the event of a national disaster or emergency.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies?  If so, how?**

This imagery along with its timely delivery was critical to the
emergency response, recovery and search and rescue efforts of both
federal and state agencies.

• **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation?  If so, how?**

The nominees set a new standard of delivery. The data was captured,
processed, and delivered to customers within 12 hours of flight
resulting in advancements in automation.

• **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
support?  If so, how?**

The accomplishment resulted in a major advancement in customer service
support. NOAA remote sensing capabilities have been utilized in previous
post-hurricane projects; however, the timeliness of data delivery for
this event had never been matched. By implementing an all-digital
workflow the data was captured, processed and delivered to the customers
within 12 hours of flight.

# Kurt Brown Group

# Gold Medal Nomination

**Leadership**

**NOS**

**Nomination \# 33**

**Category:** Leadership

**Nominees:**

  --------------- ------------------ ----------------- --------------- ----------------
  **Full Name**   **Pronunciation\   **Line or\        **Position      **Past Awards**
                  of Name**          Staff Office**    Title\          
                                                       and Grade**     

  Kurt E. Brown                      National Ocean    Physical         
                                     Service\          Scientist\      
                                     Office of Coast   GS-9            
                                     Survey                            

  Howard P.                          National Ocean    Supvy.           
  Danley, Jr                         Service\          Cartographer\   
                                     Office of Coast   GS-15           
                                     Survey                            

  Lucy A.         Mas-see-mill-lo    National Ocean    Phys. Science    
  Massimillo                         Service\          Tech\           
                                     Office of Coast   GS-10           
                                     Survey                            

  Mark J. McMann                     National Ocean    Phys. Science   2002 Bronze
                                     Service\          Tech\           Medal
                                     Office of Coast   GS-11           
                                     Survey                            

  Timothy R.                         National Ocean    Physical        1998 NOAA
  Osborn                             Service\          Scientist\      Administrator
                                     Office of Coast   GS-14           Award\
                                     Survey                            2003 Bronze
                                                                       Medal

  Edmund O.       Wer-nick-ee        National Ocean    Phys. Science    
  Wernicke                           Service\          Tech\           
                                     Office of Coast   GS-9            
                                     Survey                            

  Bradford        Ben-gee-o          National Ocean                    Organizational
  Benggio                            Service\                          Bronze Award\
                                     Office of                         Athos I Spill
                                     Response and                      Response, 2005
                                     Restoration                       

  Charles Henry                      National Ocean                    Organizational
                                     Service\                          Bronze Award\
                                     Office of                         Athos I Spill
                                     Response and                      Response, 2005
                                     Restoration                       

  Gary Ott                           National Ocean                    Organizational
                                     Service\                          Bronze Award\
                                     Office of                         Athos I Spill
                                     Response and                      Response, 2005
                                     Restoration                       

  LT William                         National Ocean                    Organizational
  Whitmore                           Service\                          Bronze Award\
                                     Office of                         Athos I Spill
                                     Response and                      Response, 2005
                                     Restoration                       
  --------------- ------------------ ----------------- --------------- ----------------

**Organizations:** NOAA/NOS Office of Coast Survey (OCS) and

> Office of Response and Restoration (ORR)

***[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}***

NOAA deployed navigation and spill responders, enabling the Coast Guard
to address oil/chemical releases and reopen all 13 major Gulf ports and
waterways within days after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

***I.* *[Certificate Text]{.underline}****[:]{.underline}* For
outstanding response efforts after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, enabling
prompt reopening of all 13 economically vital Gulf ports and waterways.

***[II. Program Booklet Text]{.underline}*:** These leaders effectively
minimized environmental impacts, restored services and kept maritime
commerce moving through 13 economically vital Gulf ports and waterways
within days after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. NOAA's navigation and
scientific response teams, regional navigation managers and headquarters
senior staff worked around the clock and under the harshest conditions
to survey waterways for underwater hazards and chemical and oil
releases, and coordinated a large- scale response effort with the U.S.
Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, Navy, FEMA, and state and local
governments.

**Nominated By:** Kathryn L. Ries

Deputy Director

NOAA-Office of Coast Survey

Captain Ken W. Barton

Deputy Director

NOAA-Office of Response and Restoration

III. ***[Justification]{.underline}***

[Section 1. Definitions]{.underline}

Hydrographic survey---A survey of a water area, with particular
reference to submarine relief and any adjacent land.

Hydrography---The science that deals with the measurement and
description of the physical features of the oceans and adjoining coastal
areas, with particular reference to their use for navigational purposes.

Nautical chart---A special purpose map generally designed for purposes
of navigation.

Navigation Response Teams (NRTs)---Three-person, mobile emergency
response teams that are deployed in emergencies as requested by federal,
state and local governments/port authorities. They have trailerable
small survey launches equipped with side scan sonar to survey waterways
for wrecked vessels and oil rigs, large debris, and shoaling that can
damage or ground passing vessels.

NOS -- National Ocean Service

OCS---Office of Coast Survey, NOAA's National Ocean Service

OR&R - NOAA Office of Response and Restoration

Side scan sonar\--Side scan sonar is a specialized sonar (SOund
NAvigation and Ranging)

system for searching and detecting objects on the sea floor.

Scientific Support Teams (SSTs) -- Interdisciplinary teams comprised of
spill responders, scientists, and technical staff to address NOAA
mandates and interests associated with an oil or hazardous materials
release.

USACOE -- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

USEPA -- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

USCG -- U.S. Coast Guard

[Section 2. Award Justification]{.underline}

*What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?*

These activities directly support both the DOC strategic goal to
"provide the information and tools to maximize U.S. competitiveness and
enable economic growth" and the related NOAA goal to "support the
nation's commerce with information for safe, efficient and
environmentally sound transportation." The Gulf ports and waterways are
vital to the transport of food, relief supplies, oil and coal.

*What was the context in which the nominee(s) addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?*

The hurricanes caused over 400 oil and chemical releases and
unprecedented impacts to the area's coastal marshes and waterways. In
the aftermath, waterways had to be surveyed and cleared of wrecks and
debris before vessels could safely transit the area. Ships have gotten
longer, wider and deeper, and determining precise water depths is
imperative for safe navigation. Hurricanes play havoc with the sea
bottom, rendering the depths and obstructions on nautical charts
obsolete.

These leaders demonstrated tremendous creativity, innovation, and
flexibility to obtain such substantial achievements in this
unprecedented situation. They worked around the clock, dealing
effectively with the scarcity of power, communications, lodging, food,
supplies and relief for their field personnel.

*What specific actions did the nominee(s) take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?*

NOAA dispatched NRTs and SSTs to the Gulf prior to the hurricanes
reaching land. NRTs used small launches equipped with side scan sonar to
conduct scans of the sea bottom in areas identified as critical by the
USCG, USACOE and local port officials. SSTs provided the USCG, USEPA and
states with critical scientific information to support cleanup and
recovery of the released materials.

*What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?*

This information allowed the USCG to reopen all major ports and
waterways days after the hurricanes hit and to mitigate environmental
effects of the releases. These activities required a large-scale
response effort with federal, state and local governments. NOAA field
and headquarters leaders worked tirelessly to facilitate these efforts,
which kept maritime commerce moving and mitigated environmental impacts.

[Section 3. Additional Information]{.underline}

*How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented deployed?*

Information from the NOAA emergency hydrographic surveys and graphically
documented waterway closures and locations of sunken/stranded vessels
allowed the USCG to reopen all 13 major Gulf ports and waterways within
days after the hurricanes struck. This nation is heavily dependent on
maritime trade, much of which flows through the impacted ports in
Louisiana, Texas, Alabama and Mississippi. The Port of New Orleans is
the focal point for waterborne transportation of cargo to 28 states and
supported \$37 billion in economic benefits to the country.

*What is the short-term impact (1-2) years of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or the Department's mission?*

The NOAA first responders helped minimize the impacts to the
environment, enhance recovery, and allow for the movement of waterborne
services. Kurt Nagle, president of the American Association of Port
Authorities, eloquently noted that "Without the help of the public port
authorities and agencies such as the Coast Guard and the Corps, NOAA and
MARAD, the crucial services needed in times of crisis and the goods we
depend on in our everyday lives may not be available with the timeliness
that consumers and manufacturers require.\"

*Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how?
Does the accomplishment affect other bureas/Department or other Federal
agencies? If so, how?*

NOAA hydrographic and spill response experts were deployed in advance of
the hurricanes' landfall, ensuring that emergency surveys would be
conducted soon after the hurricanes hit. The complexity of the related
logistics under such disastrous conditions required extensive
coordination with USCG, USACOE, USEPA, Navy, FEMA, and state and local
governments. NOAA personnel's dedication and tireless efforts provided a
superlative level of customer service to all partners, helping them
accomplish their missions, and serving the people of the Gulf Coast.

*Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in the science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?* No.

*What is the long-term impact (3-5) years of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or the Department's mission?*

NOAA's hydrographic and spill response capabilities are essential to the
recovery of the Gulf region's ports and coastal environment. These
services ensure that accurate navigation products are available for
mariners transiting through these economically critical ports and they
enhance environmental recovery and restoration of coastal resources.

# Robert Wolotira Group

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Leadership**

**NOS**

**Nomination \# 34**

**What is the significance of this accomplishment?**

Through the first NRDA liability allocation, aggressive outreach, and
restoration banking, the team settled claims to restore injured natural
resources in Hylebos Waterway, a complex pollution site.

**I. Certificate Citation:**

For leadership and development of an innovative approach to promote
restoration of natural resources in the highly urbanized Hylebos
Waterway.

**Nominee Information:**

## Mr. Robert J. Wolotira, Jr. (Wall-o-tier-a)*,* Oceanographer, GS-14

NOAA National Ocean Service (NOS), Office of Response and Restoration
(OR&R)

Past Awards: Certificate of Appreciation from the NOAA Fisheries Alaska
Fisheries Science Center (1988), NOAA General Counsel\'s Award (1998)

## Ms. Jennifer Anne Steger (Stee-ger)*,* Marine Habitat Resource Specialist, Band IV

NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Office of Habitat
Conservation (OHC)

Past Awards: none

**Mr. Robert Allen Taylor, *Attorney Advisor General, GS-15***

NOAA Office of General Counsel (GC), General Counsel Office for Natural
Resources (GCNR)

Past Awards: NOAA Administrator\'s Award (Team - 1987), DOC General
Counsel's Award (1989), NOAA Administrator\'s Award (Individual - 1998)

## Ms. Gail Siani (See-an-e)*,* Paralegal Specialist, GS-13

NOAA Office of General Counsel (GC), General Counsel Office for Natural
Resources (GCNR)

Past Awards: DOC General Counsel's Award (2002, 2004), NOAA General
Counsel's Award (2002)

## Mr. Nicholas Eugene Iadanza (Ee-a-dan-za)*,* Fisheries Biologist, GS-14

NOAA National Ocean Service (NOS), Office of Response and Restoration
(OR&R)

Retired: Retired October 1, 2005

Past Awards: DOJ Environmental Enforcement Award (1995), Silver Medal
(Team -- 1999)

**II. Program Booklet Citation:**

The group is honored for implementing an unprecedented approach to
resolve natural resource damage liability for responsible parties in
Hylebos Waterway at the Commencement Bay Superfund site. Incorporating
new approaches for quantifying and allocating injuries, employing
restoration banking, and implementing an aggressive public outreach
campaign and public review process, the group achieved substantial
settlement success in an urban waterway contaminated by 33 hazardous
pollutants released over decades by nearly 100 parties from scores of
industrial sites.

**III. Justification:**

**Section 1 -- Definitions**

-   CB -- Commencement Bay -- Superfund site located in Tacoma, WA, at
    the southern end of Puget Sound

-   CERCLA -- Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and
    Liability Act -- the federal statute providing for the protection
    and restoration of natural resources at contaminated sites

-   Hylebos -- One of four waterways at the Commencement Bay Superfund
    site

-   Liability -- Legal responsibility to compensate for an injury

-   NRDA -- Natural Resource Damage Assessment -- the process of
    quantifying natural resource injuries and determining the resource
    restoration necessary to compensate for those losses

-   PCB (Polychlorinated Biphenyl) -- A group of toxic chemicals mainly
    used in industrial applications. Due to their accumulation in the
    food chain, PCBs were banned in the U.S. in 1977. They are still
    found in sediments and marine animals due to their persistent
    nature.

-   Restoration Banking -- A process in which natural resource trustees
    agree to allow one liable party to develop a restoration project
    larger than needed to compensate for its liability and to allow
    other liable parties to resolve their own liability by buying shares
    in the project

-   Superfund NPL -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's National
    Priorities List of the most serious uncontrolled or abandoned
    hazardous waste sites

-   Trustees -- Federal and state agencies designated under CERCLA to
    work with NOAA to carry out natural resource damage assessments on
    behalf of the public

**Section 2 -- Award Justification**

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

NOAA is lead trustee for federal and state agencies and Indian tribes
assessing natural resource damages at the Commencement Bay Superfund
site. NOAA studies showed that industrial activities over dozens of
years caused lethal and chronic injuries to trust resources, including
reduced growth of juvenile Chinook salmon, cancerous liver lesions and
reproductive harm in flatfish, and mortality of benthic organisms. The
NOAA team's challenge is to restore injured marine resources by
resolving natural resource damage claims at this complex site.

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

Sediments along the Hylebos Waterway are contaminated with PCBs,
pesticides, metals and other pollutants released by nearly 100 parties
from industrial activities at 38 facilities. Early settlement efforts
with the major parties failed when they disagreed on liability shares.
Development pressures on available restoration sites spurred the NOAA
team to resolve liability and quickly implement restoration.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

The team devised an approach including the first formal liability
allocation used in such cases and a sophisticated settlement model, and
opened the entire process to public review. Central to the approach is
the first use of restoration banking, a concept that encourages groups
to collaborate and recruit other parties to generate larger, more
ecologically valuable restoration projects. Using aggressive public
outreach, the team won the support of citizens groups, the press, and
local officials.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

The trustees have settlement agreements with 47 parties covering 42% of
total waterway liability. Most parties will build a large project
restoring 66 acres of new salmon spawning and rearing habitat. Others
have proposed additional estuarine and stream restoration projects.
Completed and pending settlements will also recover over \$12M in cash
and \$3.2M in assessment costs. This approach set a new standard for
evaluating complex contamination sites.

**Section 3 -- Additional Information**

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

It took the NOAA team 3 years to prepare draft reports, manage public
review, respond to comments and issue the final settlement proposal.
Settlement negotiations began in 2003 and are ongoing.

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

The team fulfilled NOAA's responsibilities to restore natural resources
and address the liability of the majority of parties at a complex
contaminated site. The team produced commitments to build 66 acres of
new salmon habitat; provided over \$12M for additional restoration and
\$3.2M in assessment cost recoveries; and generated plans for four other
restoration projects.

**What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

As a model for resolving natural resource damage claims in complex urban
estuary CERCLA cases, the team's approach furthers the aims of NOAA's
damage assessment program, and fosters the Department's strategic goal
to protect and restore coastal and marine resources.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

This will significantly advance restoration of injured resources and
further the Administration's policy of cooperative conservation and
local involvement for federal and state agencies across the nation
involved in the NRDA process.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

The team's new paradigm combined existing tools and previously untested
elements in a package representing a major advancement in the technology
and process of resolving natural resource damage claims. The approach
proved the viability of the restoration banking concept and pioneered
liability allocation in such cases. Due to their efforts and leadership,
elements of this approach are now being employed around the nation --
all with the ultimate goal of achieving even more restoration.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how?**

The novelty of their settlement approach forced the team to resolve a
number of technical and legal issues not previously encountered in such
cases. The team's aggressive public outreach effort advanced the process
of on-the-ground cooperative conservation. Several members of industry
recognized the effectiveness of this settlement process and have
embraced the NOAA approach.

**David W. Evans**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NOS**

**Nomination \# 35**

**Investigating Mercury in Coastal and Estuarine Food Webs**

**1. Full Name of Nominee:** David W. Evans

**2. Type of Recognition:** Silver Medal

**3. Category:** Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**4. Major Line or Staff Office of Nominees:** NOS

**5. Position Title and Grade for Nominees:** Research Chemist
GS-1320-13

**6. Past Awards for Nominees:** None

**7. Nominator's Name and Major Line or Staff Office:** David Johnson,
Center for Coastal Fisheries and Habitat Research

**8. Justification:**

**What is the Significance of this Accomplishment?**

This work allows the mitigation of mercury contamination that otherwise
would impede the South Florida Restoration Program.**\
\
I. Certificate Text:** For initiating, developing, and executing a
program of investigation into the transfer of mercury through estuarine
and coastal ocean food webs.

**II. Program Booklet Text:** David W. Evans has contributed greatly to
the advancement of the U.S. Department of Commerce's goal to "observe,
protect, and manage the Earth's resources to promote environmental
stewardship," and to NOAA's goal to "protect, restore, and manage the
use of coastal and ocean resources through an ecosystem-based approach
to management." Dr. Evans made pioneering efforts to understand and
manage mercury, a global environmental pollutant that is increasing in
concentration and accumulating in the world's oceans and estuaries
through atmospheric deposition**.**

**Section 1 -- Definitions**

-   *Bioaccumulation (accumulation)* -- progressive increase in the
    concentration of an environmental contaminant as it moves through a
    food chain or food web, resulting in relatively high concentrations
    in terminus animals.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
-   *Estuary* -- A part of a river, stream, or other body of water that
    has at least a seasonal connection with the open sea or Great Lakes
    and where the seawater or Great Lakes water mixes with the surface
    or subsurface water flow, regardless of the presence of human-made
    structures or obstructions.

-   *EPA* -- Environmental Protection Agency

-   *FWRI* -- Florida Water Resources Institute

-   *MOA* -- Memorandum of Agreement

-   *NCCOS* -- NOAA's National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science

-   *NOS* -- NOAA's National Ocean Service.

-   *NMFS* -- NOAA's Ntional Marine Fisheries Service.

-   *Restoration* -- The process of reestablishing a self-sustaining
    habitat that, in time, can come to closely resemble a natural
    condition in terms of structure and function.

-   *USACOE* -- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

-   *NPS -* National Park Service of the U.S. Department of Interior

> **Section 2 -- Award Justification**

**A. What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

Dr.Evans' pioneering efforts to understand mercury, a global
environmental pollutant that is increasing in concentration in the
world's oceans and estuaries, have contributed to advancing NOAA's Goal
to "Protect, restore, and manage the use of coastal and ocean resources
through ecosystem approach to management," and the DOC Goal to "Observe,
protect, and manage the Earth's resources to promote environmental
stewardship."

**B. What was the context in which the nominees addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

Dr. Evans initiated, developed, and executed a program to investigate
the bioaccumulation of mercury in estuarine and coastal ocean food webs
and the accumulation of mercury in commercially important fishes. He did
this within the context of the NCCOS Strategic Plan, and management
needs of the NPS and USACOE.

**C. What specific actions did the nominees take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

Dr. Evans engaged academic institutions and the public, and heightened
public awareness of this human health problem. He developed and
implemented an MOA with USACOE and FWRI for work on mercury
bioaccumulation in South Florida as part of the Everglades Ecosystem
Restoration project. He successfully collaborated with the South Florida
Water Management District to quantify sources of mercury to the Florida
Bay ecosystem. He also initiated research on mercury bioaccumulation in
Chesapeake Bay in coordination with NOAA's Chesapeake Bay Office. He
worked across NOAA line offices to help develop an FY08 NOAA
alternative, "An Integrated Plan of Operations: Mercury Contamination in
the Gulf of Mexico," that aims to minimize the risks of mercury to human
health and ecology in the Gulf of Mexico.

**D. What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

Accomplishments include the publication of Mercury in "Florida Bay fish:
spatial distribution of elevated concentrations and possible linkages to
Everglades Restoration" in the *Bulletin of Marine Science.* This
thorough and comprehensive report establishes a benchmark for mercury
contamination and accumulation in the Everglades This report is being
used by managers in Everglades/Florida Bay Restoration.

**Section 3. Additional Information**

**A. How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

This work has been ongoing for 5 years.

**B. What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

The work helped develop an understanding of processes in coastal and
estuarine ecosystems related to this increasingly important
contaminant.**\
**

**C. What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

Application of this understanding and the methods used will help
managers of commercially important fishes and ecosystem managers achieve
their missions of safe fishery products and healthy ecosystems.**\
**

**D. Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

Yes. This program helps USACOE and EPA better accomplish their missions.
The work is also closely coordinated with, and furthers the goals of,
NMFS.

**E. Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

Yes. The Florida Everglades-Florida Bay ecosystem is one of the nations
major watersheds/estuarine systems. It contributes irrigation to South
Florida and water to the city of Miami. Atmospheric deposition of
mercury in this system is heavy. Dr. Evans greatly enhanced the
understanding of the transfer of mercury through animals living in this
system.

**F. Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how?**

Yes. Mercury concentration in the flesh of organisms consumed by people
worldwide is a serious consumer safety issue, which requires
understanding of the transfer and accumulation of mercury in fish
products.

**Mark Miller Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Personal and Professional Excellence**

**NOS**

**Nomination \# 36**

**ORR Post 9/11 Development and Enhancement of the CAMEO/ALOHA
Software**

1\. **Full name of nominee(s):** CAMEO Team (See #5 below)

2\. **Type of Recognition (Gold or Silver):** Group Silver Award

3\. **Category:** Personal and Professional Excellence

4\. **Major Line or Staff Office for each nominee**: NOS

**5. Position title and grade for each nominee:**

Mark W. Miller, Physical Scientist, GS-14

Jerry Muhasky, Mathematician, GS-14

Jim Farr Physical Scientist, GS-13

Polly Jenne, IT Specialist, GS-11

Jon Reinsch, IT Specialist, GS-11

Robert Jones, Physical Scientist, GS-13

Debra Payton, Supervisory Oceanographer, GS-14\
Robert Pavia, Supervisory Physical Scientist, GS-15\
William Lehr, Research Oceanographer, GS-14\
Glen Watabayashi, Supervisory Physical Scientist, GS-14

6**. Past awards:** None

7**. Nominator's name and major Line or Staff Office**: Mark Miller, NOS

**What is the significance of this accomplishment?**

The team is honored for enhancing the world-class emergency response and
planning software CAMEO/ALOHA to meet the needs of a post 9/11 world.

**I. Certificate Text:**

For developing and updating the CAMEO/ALOHA software, the number-one
chemical emergency response and planning tool in the US, to meet post
9/11 needs.

**II. Program Booklet Citation:**

The challenge of planning for and responding to chemical emergencies
requires powerful yet accessible tools. The NOAA/EPA team enhanced the
CAMEO/ALOHA software to provide users with unprecedented new
capabilities by adding hazard assessments for fires and explosions and
new chemical reactivity predictions. These additions uniquely meet the
needs of first responders in our post 9/11 world as demonstrated by the
tenfold increase in use since 2001. In addition, the United Nations
Environment Programme adopted CAMEO for use in developing countries and
training has been held in over 50 nations.

**III. Justification:**

**Section 1. Definitions**

ALOHA: Areal Locations of Hazardous Atmospheres. The air dispersion
modeling component of the CAMEO program.

CAMEO: Computer Aided Management of Emergency Operations. The central
program that links to chemical data, mapping capability and the air
dispersion model ALOHA.

DHS: U.S. Department of Homeland Security

DOE: U.S. Department of Energy

DOT: U.S. Department of Transportation

EPCRA: Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act. The
legislation enacted under Title III of the Superfund Amendment and
Reauthorization Act 1986.

EPA: Environmental Protection Agency

GIS: Geographic Information System, electronic mapping programs

IMAAC: Interagency Modeling and Atmospheric Assessment Center. Created
by DHS to coordinate Federal modeling support during Incidents of
National Significance.

OEM: Office of Emergency Management. The office in EPA that jointly
develops CAMEO and ALOHA with NOAA.

ORR: NOAA Office of Response and Restoration

USCG: United States Coast Guard

**Section 2. Justification**

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

After 9/11 firefighters and emergency managers needed an enhanced tool
that combined chemical response recommendations, air model predictions
and electronic maps to aid them in making critical lifesaving decisions.
CAMEO updates provide the vital information needed to enhance decisions
that protect human health and the environment from the hazards of a
chemical release. This directly supports the Department's Goal 3 to
advance environmental understanding, prediction and management to meet
America's economic, social and environmental needs.

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

Following 9/11 first responders realized they were without the tools to
respond to modern-day threats. CAMEO contains a one-of-a-kind chemical
library of over 6,000 chemicals, created with firefighter assistance to
display the information needed during an incident. ALOHA, unlike other
air models, is designed to be run by emergency responders and provides
essential chemical hazard predictions for immediate use at the incident.
CAMEO/ALOHA was updated to provide hazards assessments for fires and
explosions, meeting the needs of a user community that spans state,
local and federal organizations.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

The team uses the best resources to create this essential tool.
Firefighters and emergency managers work with the developers to ensure
CAMEO meets their needs. The CAMEO website provides access to programs,
training opportunities and technical support. An active user community
provides integral feedback to the team through conferences and surveys.
Each year thousands of first responders are trained to use CAMEO taught
every week by more than 100 certified instructors.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

CAMEO/ALOHA is the most widely used emergency response software in the
US and its use has increased tenfold since 2001. Half of EPA's Office of
Emergency Management's website activity is CAMEO-related. The DHS
teaches responders to use CAMEO in potential terrorist scenarios and
CAMEO has been translated into multiple languages for international use.

**Section 3. Additional Information**

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

Following 9/11 the team responded to the changing needs of first
responders and developed a new version of CAMEO/ALOHA in 8 months. The
latest release gives CAMEO/ALOHA users unprecedented new capabilities by
adding hazard assessments for fires and explosions and new chemical
reactivity predictions.

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

There is an immediate and significant impact to NOAA's role in homeland
security. Our direct connection to tens of thousands of responders
nationwide puts CAMEO on the frontline of domestic preparedness. Our
partners, such as USCG, respond more effectively to public hazards
associated with dangerous chemicals as a result of this powerful
cutting-edge response tool.

**What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

CAMEO/ALOHA connects directly to the Department's role in homeland
security and domestic preparedness. As the most widely used chemical
response software in the US, CAMEO/ALOHA defines the Department and
NOAA's relationships with that community. In addition, as one of only
four systems selected, DHS uses CAMEO/ALOHA during Incidents of National
Significance in their national air modeling efforts.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

EPA\'s OEM jointly develops CAMEO with NOAA. The CAMEO team coordinates
with DOE air modeling resources and is also an integral part of the
USCG's enhanced port security activities associated with chemical
accident preparedness.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

CAMEO is unique. There is no other program that effectively combines a
user-friendly chemical database of hazardous chemicals and powerful
fire, explosion, and toxic modeling capabilities with flexible GIS
tools. This combination gives CAMEO users unparalleled tools to make
lifesaving decisions during a hazardous chemical incident.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how? **

Since 9/11 responders and emergency planners need to evaluate new
threats to public health and safety from potential terrorist attacks.
With hazardous chemicals stored in and transported through every
community in the US, CAMEO/ALOHA fills this need with immediate access
to essential information.

**Jean Durosko Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Leadership**

**NOS**

**Nomination \# 37**

Environmental Management System

**1. Full Name of Nominees:**

Jean V. Durosko (pronounced Jean Der-os-ko)

B. William Gottholm (pronounced Bernie Gott-holm)

Earl J. Lewis (pronounced Earl Lewis)

> Richard A. Meitzler (pronounced Richard Metz-ler)

**2. Type of Recognition:**

Department of Commerce Silver Medal

**3. Category:**\
Leadership

**4. Major Line or Staff Office of Nominees:**

Jean V. Durosko -- NOAA Ocean Service (NOS)

B. William Gottholm --NOAA Ocean Service (NOS)

Earl J. Lewis -- NOAA Ocean Service (NOS)

Richard A. Meitzler -- NOAA Ocean Service (NOS)

**5. Position Title and Grade for Nominees:**

Jean V. Durosko -- Management Analyst, GS-13

B. William Gottholm - Oceanographer, GS-14

Earl J. Lewis -- Research Fisheries Biologist, GS-13

> Richard A. Meitzler -- Environmental Safety and Health Officer, GS-12

**6. Past Awards for Nominees:**

None

**7. Nominator's Name and Major Line or Staff Office:\
** Dr. Gary C. Matlock - NOS

Director, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS)

**8. Justification:**

**What is the Significance of this Accomplishment?**

> NCCOS's EMS implementation and training awareness tool highlight
> DOC/NOAA as a role model for government and private agencies and
> reinforce the Department's commitment to environmental stewardship.

**\
I. Certificate Text:**

> For developing a streamlined approach to Environmental Management
> Systems resulting in the implementation of NOAA's first office-wide
> EMS.

**\
II. Program Booklet Text:**

> This group is honored for developing and implementing NOAA's first
> office-wide Environmental Management System (EMS) to effectively
> manage environmental issues and their associated impacts to human and
> ecosystem health. The National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science's EMS
> streamlining efforts and web-based EMS Awareness Tool serve as a model
> for implementation of such multi-facility systems across NOAA, the
> Department and other government and private agencies. The EMS's
> management processes and practices enable NCCOS to operate with
> greater efficiency and control.

**Section 1 -- Definitions**

-   *CEMP -* Code of Environmental Management Principles*\
    *

-   *EMS* -- Environmental Management System

-   *EPA* -- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

-   *EO* - Executive Order

-   *NCCOS* -- NOS National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science

-   *NOAA* -- U.S. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and
    Atmospheric Administration

-   *NOS* -- NOAA's National Ocean Service

**Section 2 -- Award Justification**

**A. What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?\
\
**The goal of implementing an EMS was to help fulfill the Department's
Performance Measure of ensuring a safe workplace for all employees
(Management Integration Goal-Achieve Organizational and Management
Excellence) and NOAA's goals to provide a safe operating environment and
foster environmental stewardship. The EMS needed to comply with EO
13148, EPA's CEMP, the Department's Environmental Management Manual, and
NOAA's EMS requirements.

**B. What was the context in which the nominees addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

EO 13148 requires all Federal agencies to implement an EMS where
appropriate by December 31, 2005. NOAA adopted a phased approach to
implementation and selected NCCOS as one of the first organizations to
implement an EMS. Within one year, the nominees needed to implement an
EMS across NCCOS's six facilities in Maryland, South Carolina, North
Carolina, and Alaska.

**C. What specific actions did the nominees take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

The nominees decided on the innovative approach of developing an EMS not
at just a facility level, but on an office-wide scale. They created a
team of representatives from each NCCOS facility, with Rick Meitzler and
Jean Durosko leading the team as the NCCOS and NOS Environmental
Management Representatives, respectively, and Bernie Gottholm and Jay
Lewis assisting. The Team developed an on-line EMS Awareness Training
Program and NCCOS EMS website for all NCCOS employees and partners to
ensure that everyone understood the purpose of the EMS and the potential
environmental impacts of their work. They also improved the EMS based on
results from internal and external audits as part of the continuous
plan-do-check-act cycle, including efforts to track performance and
trends.

**D. What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

NCCOS self-declared following the external audit. The EMS was judged as
fully implemented with high levels of consistency, awareness, continual
improvement, and management review. The office-wide approach and on-line
training have been shared with other NOAA, DOC, and other government and
private agencies to facilitate their EMS efforts. NCCOS has incorporated
the EMS into its daily operations.

**Section 3. Additional Information:**

**1. How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?\
**\
The nominees began to plan and execute the EMS in December 2004, and
passed a series of internal audits in November 2005 and external audits
in December 2005. NCCOS self-declared on December 29, 2005.

**2. What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?\
**\
Through the EMS, NCCOS established processes and practices to ensure a
safe workplace for its employees and contractors, thereby helping the
Department meet its Management Integration Goal and the requirements of
EO 13148. These improvements also help NOAA meet its goal of providing
critical support to the agency's mission by operating safe work
environments and fostering environmental stewardship. NCCOS's
innovations to EMS will accelerate NOAA/DOC's compliance with the EO.

**3. What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?\
**\
NCCOS has integrated environmental accountability into its own long-term
planning and decision-making processes, and \-- as a model for other
organizations within NOS, NOAA, the Department, and other Federal
agencies \-- will help foster environmental stewardship across the
country. NCCOS's efforts to implement its EMS help ensure the safety and
well-being of its employees, and sustain the health of the environment.
The plan-do-check-act cycle built into the EMS allows for continuous
improvement of the organization's performance. **\
**

**4. Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?\
**\
Yes. The planning and execution of NCCOS's office-wide EMS serves as an
efficient model for other organizations within NOS, NOAA, the Department
and other Federal agencies required to implement such systems. In
addition, the downloadable version of the NCCOS EMS Awareness Training,
which was developed due to numerous requests, facilitates other agencies
in developing EMS awareness courses.

**5. Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?\
**\
No.

**6. Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how?\
**\
Yes. This EMS helps NCCOS ensure that it operates safe facilities that
comply with all applicable environmental laws and regulations. In
addition, NCCOS's EMS innovations resulted in major improvements to the
NOAA EMS Developmental Guidance, which will help other NOAA sections
develop and implement such systems.

Joshua Lott Group

Silver Medal Nomination

Leadership

NOS

Nomination \# 38

# Louisiana Long Term Recovery Planning Effort

**1. Full Names of Nominees:**

Joshua Lott, GS-14 (pronounced Joshua Lott)

Elizabeth M. Mountz, GS-12 (pronounced Elizabeth Mountz)

Heidi E. Recksiek, GS-13 (pronounced Heidi Wreck-sick)

George Kenneth Walker, Jr., GS-13 (pronounced George Kenneth Walker,
Jr.)

Kirk J. Waters, GS-13 (pronounced Kirk Waters)

**2. Type of Recognition:**

Department of Commerce Silver Medal

**3. Category:**

Leadership

**4. Major Line or Staff Office of Nominees**:

Joshua Lott -- NOS/OCRM/CPD

Elizabeth M. Mountz -- NOS/OCRM

Heidi E. Recksiek -- NOS/CSC

George Kenneth Walker, Jr. -- NOS/OCRM/NPED

Kirk J. Waters -- NOS/CSC

**5. Position Title and Grade for Nominees:**

Joshua Lott -- Team Leader

Elizabeth M. Mountz -- Coastal Management Specialist

Heidi E. Recksiek -- Coastal Management Specialist

George Kenneth Walker, Jr. -- Policy Analyst

Kirk J. Waters -- Physical Scientist

**6. Past Awards for Nominees:**

Joshua Lott -- 1999 Department of Commerce Bronze Medal (group award)

> 2002 NOAA Administrator's Award
>
> 2005 Department of Commerce Bronze Medal (group award)

**7. Nominator's Name and Major Line or Staff Office:**

Jeff Payne -- NOS/CSC

Douglas Brown -- NOS/OCRM

**8. What is the significance of this accomplishment?**

> NOAA's coastal management expertise contributed significantly to the
> development of parish-specific recovery plans that will increase the
> resilience of coastal Louisiana communities to future storms.

**I. Certificate Text:**

> For exceptional work in providing long-term recovery planning
> assistance to coastal Louisiana after the devastation from Hurricanes
> Katrina and Rita.

**II. Program Booklet Text:**

This group is honored for its members' significant personal and
professional contributions to the Louisiana Long Term Recovery Planning
effort. They worked with compassion and care in a tumultuous social,
political, and environmental landscape to ensure the contribution of
NOAA's important assets for restoring coastal communities and natural
areas. The great amount of work the nominees accomplished in a
relatively small amount of time illustrates their talents and their
unselfish caring for the people and communities whose lives have been
forever altered by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

**III. Justification:**

**Section 1 -- Definitions**

-   CPD -- NOAA/NOS/OCRM Coastal Programs Division

-   CSC -- NOAA Coastal Services Center

-   FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency

-   NPED -- NOAA/NOS/OCRM National Policy and Evaluation Division

-   NOAA -- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

-   NOS -- National Ocean Service

-   OCRM -- NOAA/NOS Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management

**Section 2 -- Award Justification**

**A. What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

The nominees' goal was to work quickly to help the State of Louisiana
and its local communities create long-term recovery plans. The nominees
accessed a wide breadth of NOAA expertise (storm-surge records, habitat
restoration techniques, stakeholder communications, etc.) and and and,
in doing so, enhanced the Department's credibility to reduce
communities' vulnerability to storms and apply it expertise in the midst
of a highly volatile situation. Through this impressive effort, the
group illustrated DOC's strategic goal 3 to promote environmental
stewardship and NOAA's mission goals to protect ecosystems and human
life in coastal areas.

**B. What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge, or problem?**

After Hurricanes Katrina and Rita hit the Gulf Coast in 2005, the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) asked NOAA to help develop
local long-term recovery plans in coastal Louisiana. Nominees provided
long-term on-site planning assistance to coastal communities affected by
the hurricanes. This required them to adapt to a fast-paced environment,
maintain acute awareness of local, state, and federal concerns, and be
highly motivated to contribute, all with very little direction.

**C. What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge, or problem?**

Since November 2005, the nominees relocated to the area and gave their
time and talents to help coastal Louisiana plan its future. They
collaborated on coastal and environmental concerns, coordinated
logistics for a multi-state planning day, and assisted in developing
community-based, parish-level plans. They acted professionally in a
highly emotional and politically charged environment, worked at multiple
levels of government and industry, and provided services with short
turnaround times.

**D. What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

Through the Louisiana Speaks Long-Term Recovery Planning Day, the
nominees helped gather and synthesize comments from over 4,000 residents
who met in 30 locations across the country. They coordinated comments to
create 19 specific plans for the local parishes. One nominee also plays
a key role in the Louisiana Portsfield Pilot project.

**Section 3. Additional Information**

**A. How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

Two nominees have been in Louisiana for over three months. Two others
spent six to eight weeks there. The parish-specific long-term recovery
plans are now available through a Web-based tool that allows everyone to
view recovery planning information by parish or by recovery sector
(e.g., environmental management, flood protection and restoration,
transportation).

**B. What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

Coastal parishes now have Web-based tools to begin their restoration and
long-term recovery activities. Activities will shortly begin to restore
coastal resources and return some economic viability and socio-cultural
stability to the area, with careful consideration given to rebuilding,
to mitigating the risks of natural hazards, and to creating resilient
communities.

**C. What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

The long-term impact is twofold. The nominees' experiences in this
fragile coastal area ensure a greater understanding of the human
dimensions of NOAA's ecosystem-based management mission. The planning
effort and its products allow communities to start projects that move
toward sustainability of coastal resources and to become more resilient
to future hazards.

**D. Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

The NOAA staff members contributed significantly to FEMA by providing
the right mix of technical and interpersonal skills to fulfill both
agencies' missions for community resiliency and coastal management. FEMA
relied heavily on the work of all NOAA staff members and requested an
extended tour for Heidi Recksiek, who played a significant role in
orchestrating Louisiana Speaks Long-Term Recovery Planning Day.

**E.** **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
science, technology, or automation? If so, how?** No.

**F. Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how?**

Yes. The scope of the long-term recovery is unprecedented because of the
scale of the disaster and the need to find sustainable solutions to
manage future risks. The nominees' accomplishments will result in more
resilient communities. The nominees' exceptional abilities to develop
relationships with the local community, state, and other federal
agencies contributed greatly to the effectiveness of the Louisiana Long
Term Recovery Planning effort.

# Mark Bailey Group

# Silver Medal Nomination

**Personal and Professional Excellence**

**NOS**

**Nomination \# 39**

**NOAA Tsunami Warning System - Sea Level Monitoring Component**

+-----------+-------------+-------------+-----------+----------------+
| Full Name | Pr          | Position    | Line or   | Past Awards    |
|           | onunciation |             | Staff     |                |
|           | of Name     | S           | Office    |                |
|           |             | eries/Grade |           |                |
+-----------+-------------+-------------+-----------+----------------+
| Mark      | Mark Bale-e | Engineering | NOS       | None           |
| Bailey    |             | Technician  |           |                |
|           |             |             |           |                |
|           |             | GS-802-11   |           |                |
+-----------+-------------+-------------+-----------+----------------+
| Kyle      | Kyle        | Engineering | NOS       | None           |
| Dinberg   | Din-burg    | Technician  |           |                |
|           |             |             |           |                |
|           |             | GS-802-11   |           |                |
+-----------+-------------+-------------+-----------+----------------+
| Scott     |             | Oc          | NOS       | None           |
| Duncan    |             | eanographer |           |                |
|           |             |             |           |                |
|           |             | GS-1360-12  |           |                |
+-----------+-------------+-------------+-----------+----------------+
| Kenneth   | Ken Fuse    | Engineering | NOS       | None           |
| Fuhs      |             | Technician  |           |                |
|           |             |             |           |                |
|           |             | GS-802-11   |           |                |
+-----------+-------------+-------------+-----------+----------------+
| Richard   |             | Engineering | NOS       | None           |
| James     |             | Technician  |           |                |
|           |             |             |           |                |
|           |             | GS-802-11   |           |                |
+-----------+-------------+-------------+-----------+----------------+
| Warren    | Warren      | Electronic  | NOS       | None           |
| Krug      | Kroog       | Engineer    |           |                |
|           |             |             |           |                |
|           |             | GS-856-13   |           |                |
+-----------+-------------+-------------+-----------+----------------+
| James     | James       | Engineering | NOS       | None           |
| Lewis     | Loo-is      | Technician  |           |                |
|           |             |             |           |                |
|           |             | GS-802-12   |           |                |
+-----------+-------------+-------------+-----------+----------------+
| Rolin     | Row-lyn     | Engineering | NOS       | None           |
| Meyer     | My-er       | Technician  |           |                |
|           |             |             |           |                |
|           |             | GS-802-13   |           |                |
+-----------+-------------+-------------+-----------+----------------+
| Lawrence  | Lawrence    | Engineering | NOS       | None           |
| Neeson    | Knee-son    | Technician  |           |                |
|           |             |             |           |                |
|           |             | GS-802-13   |           |                |
+-----------+-------------+-------------+-----------+----------------+
| Manoj     | Ma-noj      | Civil       | NOS       | None           |
| Samant    |             | Engineer    |           |                |
|           | Sa-Mant     |             |           |                |
|           |             | GS-810-13   |           |                |
+-----------+-------------+-------------+-----------+----------------+

[2. Type of Recognition:]{.underline} Silver

[3. Category:]{.underline} Personal and Professional Excellence

[4. Major Line or Staff Office:]{.underline} National Ocean Service

[5. Position title and grade:]{.underline} Various

[6. Past awards:]{.underline} See attached

[7. Nominator:]{.underline} Michael Szabados

> Director, NOAA/NOS Center for Operational Oceanographic Products
>
> and Services(CO-OPS)

[Definitions:]{.underline}

NWLON -- the National Water Level Observation Network, a long-term
network of water level stations that support all NOAA strategic goals by
providing data used for safe navigation, tsunami and storm surge
warnings, habitat restoration, and long-term sea level rise.

TWC - Tsunami Warning Center -- the 24x7 TWS component that ingests data
from multiple sources, operates forecast models, and issues warnings of
potential tsunami occurrences.

TWS -- the NOAA Tsunami Warning System, those components of NOAA such as
the Tsunami Warning Centers, the DART buoys, the NWLON, and others that
together detect and provide warning of tsunami events to the American
public.

[8. Significance of Accomplishment:]{.underline} The NOAA Tsunami
Warning System's ability to protect United States coastal communities
was significantly improved through the rapid filling of critical key sea
level observation gaps.

[9. Certificate text:]{.underline} For exemplary achievement in
strengthening the NOAA Tsunami Warning System's ability to protect the
lives and property of United States citizens.

[10. Program Booklet text:]{.underline} The group is honored for working
closely as a team to plan and execute a complex, challenging project to
upgrade technology and fill key water level monitoring gaps in the NOAA
Tsunami Warning System. Water level data is critical to the accuracy of
forecasts issued by NOAA's Tsunami Warning Centers to warn and protect
U.S. lives and property. Utilizing their years of experience,
professionalism, and esprit de corps, group members planned and executed
to great precision a project plan that enabled NOAA to not only meet,
but exceed, its fiscal year goals for this component.

[11. Award Justification:]{.underline}

*What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?*

The Indian Ocean tsunami of December 2004 focused international
attention on the devastating impacts of a powerful natural phenomenon,
the tsunami. The U.S. coastline is also vulnerable to tsunamis and the
Administration quickly moved to ensure adequate protections were put in
place. Strengthening NOAA's TWS was central to this response, a key
component of which is the NWLON. Significant improvements to the NWLON
were identified as the NWLON can detect a tsunami, and feed NWS TWC
models that forecast when a tsunami may reach other locations.

*What was the context in which the nominees addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?*

The planning and execution of the sea level component under an
accelerated timeline was a huge challenge. The task called for
implementing a significant portion of the deliverables by the end of the
fiscal year, particularly difficult given that resources would not be
available from the supplemental until half the year had already passed.
NOAA put together an end-to-end team to plan and execute the sea level
monitoring component. The plan required upgrading technology at 33
existing NWLON stations. The most challenging part of the task was to
establish 16 new NWLON stations, primarily in remote areas.

*What specific actions did the nominees take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?*

Planning and execution entailed considerable coordination across NOAA to
verify gap locations, assemble extensive lists of equipment for
procurement, write and award contracts for required services, create
acceptance tests and calibrate equipment upon delivery, conduct site
reconnaissance, design station installations, arrange for local
permissions, permits and utilities, upgrade existing NWLON stations,
establish the new stations, and verify TWC access. Technology and
software development, testing and integration were accelerated to meet
TWC requirements for specialized high-frequency data.

*What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?*

Utilizing project management software, a complex multi-year project plan
was created detailing every step from start to end. The plan enabled
significant FY2005 achievements to be planned, successfully achieved,
and, in fact, exceeded.

[12. Additional Information:]{.underline}

*How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?*

Executing a task this large and complex would normally take well over a
year's lead time to plan and successfully implement. However, based on
the urgency of the need and the group's collective personal pride and
professional expertise, the project plan was completed in a few months.
Through close collaboration, turnkey scheduling, innovative use of
existing equipment inventory and contract services, and drawing upon
decades of field experience, the team not only met the fiscal year
deliverables, but actually exceeded them. It is important to note that
these efforts were well above and beyond the normal duties performed by
the team.

*What is the short term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?*

In FY2005, 7 new NWLON stations were established in Alaska (3), Puerto
Rico (2), California and Washington. Fifteen NWLON stations were
upgraded with new technology, exceeding the planned 9 upgrades. The full
plan of 16 new NWLON stations and 33 upgraded stations will be
implemented by the end of FY 2006. This will have filled all sea level
gaps identified in NOAA's Pacific and Alaskan coasts, as well as in
Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. These actions provide immediate
improvements to the TWC's ability to accurately detect and forecast
tsunamis, improving the accuracy of warnings provided to the public and
emergency responders.

*What is the long term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?*

The successful planning and execution of this project has laid the
groundwork for strengthening tsunami protection for the U.S. Gulf and
East Coasts. It has also provided a model for international efforts such
as those that are currently emerging in the Caribbean nations. These
"nearby" international efforts will also improve NOAA's long-range
ability to forecast tsunamis by allowing earlier detection.

*Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?*

The specialized tsunami data provided by the NWLON benefits other
Federal agencies such as the USGS, who are partners with NOAA in tsunami
detection and warning.

*Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?*

N/A

*Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support?*

N/A

**Robert Warner Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Leadership**

**NOS**

**Nomination \# 40**

**Hurricane Katrina and Rita Response Activities**

**1. Full Name of Nominees**

> Robert A. Warner, (pronounced Robert Warner)
>
> Andrew K. Leight, (prefers A.K. Light)
>
> Dr. Gunnar G. Lauenstein, (pronounced Gunner Lawenstine)
>
> Dr. Jeff Hyland, (pronounced Jeff Highland)
>
> Dr. Michael H. Fulton, (pronounced Michael Fulton)
>
> Dr. Edward F. Wirth, (pronounced Edward Worth)
>
> Laura F. Webster, ((pronounced Laura Webster)
>
> Marion Sanders, (pronounced Marion Sanders)
>
> Dr. S. Ian Hartwell, (pronounced Ian Heartwell)
>
> Dr. Stephan L. Morton, (prefers Steve Morton)

**2. Type of Recognition**

Silver Medal

**3. Award Category**

> Leadership

**4. Major Line and Staff Office for Each Nominee**

> NOAA's Ocean Service
>
> National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science
>
> Center for Coastal Monitoring and Assessment
>
> *Robert A. Warner, Dr. Gunnar G. Lauenstein, Dr. S. Ian Hartwell*
>
> NOAA's Ocean Service
>
> National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science
>
> Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research
>
> *Andrew K. Leight, Dr. Jeff Hyland, Dr. Michael H. Fulton, Dr. Edward
> F. Wirth, Laura F. Webster, Marion Sanders, Dr. Stephan L. Morton*

**5. Position, Title, and Grade for Each Nominee**

> *Robert A. Warner:* Physical Scientist (GS-13)
>
> *Andrew K. Leight:* Microbiologist (GS-11)
>
> *Dr. Gunnar G. Lauenstein:* Physical Scientist (GS-13)
>
> *Dr. Jeff Hyland:* Ecologist (GS-14)
>
> *Dr. Michael H. Fulton:* Fishery Biologist (GS-14)
>
> *Dr. Edward F. Wirth:* Research Fishery Biologist (GS-12)
>
> *Laura F. Webster:* Microbiologist (GS-9)
>
> *Marion Sanders:* Research Chemist (GS-12)
>
> *Dr. S. Ian Hartwell:* Ecologist (GS-13)

*Dr. Stephan L. Morton:* Research Oceanographer (GS-13)

**6. Past Awards for Each Nominee**

> [Dr. Gunnar G. Lauenstein]{.underline}: 1996 Bronze Medal ("*For
> consistent service to the NOAA Mussel Watch Project, and expanding the
> time scale of its trend analysis"*)
>
> [Dr. Jeff Hyland]{.underline}: 2003 Bronze Medal (*"For Superior
> Federal Service"*), 1997 and 2002 USEPA Bronze Medal (Awarded to Jeff
> as a NOAA employee)

**7. Nominator's Name, Line, and Staff Office**

Dr. Gary C. Matlock, Director

NOAA Ocean Service, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science

**What is the significance of this accomplishment?**

This group successfully planned, coordinated and executed a multi-agency
assessment of coastal contamination in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina
and Rita throughout Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.

**I. Certificate Text**

For planning, coordinating and executing a multi-agency impact
assessment of coastal contamination resulting from Hurricanes Katrina
and Rita.

**II. Program Booklet Text**

The group is honored for providing outstanding leadership, collaboration
and commitment in coordinating and executing a multi-agency
environmental impact assessment of biological and chemical contamination
of coastal waters in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in response
to state needs. They channeled resources and capabilities of NOAA,
USEPA, FDA, USGS, and the Coastal States of Louisiana, Mississippi and
Alabama in this extraordinary effort to assess post-storm seafood safety
and water quality, and for placing these observations in the context of
historical environmental quality.

**III. Justification**

**Section 1 -- Definitions**

[USEPA]{.underline}: United States Environmental Protection Agency

[FDA]{.underline}: U.S. Food and Drug Administration

[USGS]{.underline}: United States Geological Survey

[Pathogen]{.underline}: An agent that causes disease, especially a
microorganism such as a bacterium or fungus.

[Contaminant]{.underline}: A substance that makes impure or unclean by
contact or mixture.

[Harmful Algal Bloom]{.underline}: Massive growths of various
microscopic marine algae that may harm the health of the environment,
plants, or animals.

**Section 2 -- Award Justification**

What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?

DOC Goal ^\#^3 states that we shall *"Observe, protect and manage the
Earth's resources to promote environmental stewardship."* The uncommon
leadership and commitment exhibited here address these goals, and
represents the very spirit of these organizational tenets. The team's
efforts were critical to assessing post-storm seafood safety and water
quality, and for placing these observations in historical context.

*What was the context in which the nominee(s) addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?*

The unusual and dangerous circumstances associated with conducting a
cruise and associated shallow-water field survey in the wake of these
storms provide context for this nomination. A team of six field
scientists was deployed to coastal Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama
less than a week after landfall of Hurricane Rita, and 3 weeks after
Katrina. Catastrophic damage in the region made logistics difficult,
and, in some cases, nearly impossible.

*What specific actions did the nominee(s) take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?*

As part of the field effort, the team rapidly coordinated NOAA, USEPA,
USGS and FDA assets to collect sediment, water and oysters for analysis.
Sediments were analyzed for chemical contamination, microbial and
pathogen indicators, algae capable of producing harmful algal blooms
(HABs), benthic fauna, and toxicity. Water samples were collected to
quantify microbial/pathogen indicators, phytoplankton that produce HABs,
and chemical contaminants. Oysters were collected to measure chemical
and biological contaminant levels in this commercial shellfish species.

*What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?*

Results of this effort include the discovery of contaminant
concentrations in oysters as well as concentrations of fecal
contaminants and a key regional herbicide in coastal waters.
Contamination levels of pesticides, PCBs and PAHs after the storm were
low compared to the 20-year record. Fecal pollution indicators were
detected at a higher frequency and at higher concentrations when
compared to previous NOAA post-hurricane assessments. These results are
being delivered to federal and state coastal partners for management
decisions and actions.

**Section 3 -- Additional Information**

How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?

This rapid response was initiated through planning and coordination with
Federal and State partners August 29 **-** September 29**.** The tasks
outlined in the resulting strategy were initiated on September 29 and
completed on October 12. A follow-up cruise to the impacted region is
ongoing.

What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
Bureau and/or Department's mission?

Reports developed from this effort were provided to managers and
stakeholders in the region to communicate the status of seafood safety
and coastal contamination risks. It also produced data that will be used
to place results into a national and historical context, which is
critical to understand, protect and manage resources and to promote
environmental stewardship.

What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
Bureau and/or Department's mission?

Results will be used to better project the impact of hurricanes on
coastal contamination and determine processes that affect the
distribution of contaminants after storms. Such hypotheses will be well
served by the history of monitoring in the region, and in areas of the
country that are frequented by storms. Observations can then be used to
construct impact scenario models, and to inform coastal managers as they
refine management practices, and lawmakers as they strive to ensure
human health, environmental quality and vigorous commerce.

*Does the accomplishment affect other Bureaus/Departments or other
Federal agencies?*

The USEPA, FDA and USGS all have benefited from this collaborative
effort. Together, the USEPA and USGS have been able to declare that
coastal waters are safe for swimming where appropriate, and deliver
warnings elsewhere. The team's work enabled FDA and coastal states to
inform stakeholders of shellfish safety in the impacted region.

Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement of science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?

Not in the short term; however, advancement of our understanding of
coastal processes as it relates to contamination is expected as the team
begins the task of carefully evaluating the storms' impact in the
context of historical measurements and storms.

Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how?

Yes. The multi-agency collaborative survey design and its timely
execution served as models for timely responses to future storms that
benefited coastal managers in the states.

# Sarah Borakove Group

# Silver Medal Nomination

**Personal and Professional Excellence**

**NOS**

**Nomination \# 41**

**Nominees:**

  -------------- ------------------ ----------------- -------------- ----------
  **Full Name**  **Pronunciation\   **Line or\        **Position\    **Past
                 of Name**          Staff Office**    Title\         Awards**
                                                      and Grade**    

  Sarah L.       Bore-a-kove        National Ocean    Phys. Science   
  Borakove                          Service\          Tech\          
                                    Office of Coast   GS-7           
                                    Survey                           

  Alan R. Bunn                      National Ocean    Physical        
                                    Service\          Scientist\     
                                    Office of Coast   GS-13          
                                    Survey                           

  David B.                          National Ocean    Phys. Science   
  Elliott                           Service\          Tech\          
                                    Office of Coast   GS-11          
                                    Survey                           

  LCDR Rick                         National Ocean    Deputy Chief\   
  Fletcher                          Service\          Nav. Services  
                                    Office of Coast   Div.           
                                    Survey                           

  Bert S. Ho                        National Ocean    Phys. Science  2005
                                    Service\          Tech\          Bronze
                                    Office of Coast   GS-7           Medal
                                    Survey                           

  Brian A. Link                     National Ocean    Phys. Science   
                                    Service\          Tech\          
                                    Office of Coast   GS-12          
                                    Survey                           

  Robert W.                         National Ocean    Phys. Science   
  Ramsey                            Service\          Tech\          
                                    Office of Coast   GS-9           
                                    Survey                           

  Anthony C.     Go-dett            National Ocean    Electronic\     
  Godette                           Service\          Technician\    
                                    COOPS             GS-11          

  Warren S. Krug Kroog              National Ocean    Electronic\     
                                    Service\          Engineer\      
                                    COOPS             GS-13          

  Sarah K.       Mer-ro-zeck        National Ocean    NOAA Corp       
  Mrozek                            Service\                         
                                    COOPS                            
  -------------- ------------------ ----------------- -------------- ----------

**Organizations:** NOAA/NOS Office of Coast Survey (OCS)

> NOAA/NOS Center for Operational Oceanographic Products
>
> and Services (CO-OPS)

***[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}***

NOAA conducted immediate emergency hydrographic surveys, enabling the
Coast Guard to reopen 13 major economically vital Gulf ports and
waterways within days after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita struck.

***I.* *[Certificate Text]{.underline}****[:]{.underline}* For enabling
the reopening of all 13 economically vital Gulf ports and waterways
within days after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita made landfall.

***[II. Program Booklet Text]{.underline}*:** By conducting emergency
hydrographic surveys for underwater hazards, these dedicated
professionals helped save lives, restore services and keep supplies and
maritime commerce moving through 13 economically vital Gulf ports and
waterways within days after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita landed. NOAA's
navigation response teams, regional navigation managers, water levels
field support and headquarters staff worked tirelessly and under
hazardous conditions to coordinate a large-scale response effort with
the U.S. Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, Navy, FEMA, and state and
local governments.

**Nominated By:** Kathryn L. Ries

Deputy Director

NOAA/NOS-Office of Coast Survey

Richard Edwing

Deputy Director

> NOAA/NOS-Center for Operational Oceanographic Products

and Services

IV. ***[Justification]{.underline}***

[Section 1. Definitions]{.underline}

CO-OPS---Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services,
NOAA's National Ocean Service

Hydrographic survey---A survey of a water area, with particular
reference to submarine relief and any adjacent land.

Hydrography---The science that deals with the measurement and
description of the physical features of the oceans and adjoining coastal
areas, with particular reference to their use for navigational purposes.

Nautical chart---A special purpose map generally designed for purposes
of navigation.

Navigation Response Teams (NRTs)---Three-person, mobile emergency
response teams that are deployed in emergencies as requested by federal,
state and local governments/port authorities. They have trailerable
small survey launches equipped with side scan sonar to survey waterways
for wrecked vessels and oil rigs, large debris, and shoaling that can
damage or ground passing vessels.

OCS---Office of Coast Survey, NOAA's National Ocean Service

Side scan sonar---Side scan sonar is a specialized sonar (SOund
NAvigation and Ranging)

system for searching and detecting objects on the sea floor

USCG---U.S. Coast Guard

USACOE---U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

[Section 2. Award Justification]{.underline}

*What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?*

These activities directly support both the DOC strategic goal to
"provide the information and tools to maximize U.S. competitiveness and
enable economic growth" and the related NOAA goal to "support the
nation's commerce with information for safe, efficient and
environmentally sound transportation." Essential to the movement of food
and relief supplies, including cruise ships used for housing emergency
workers, the Gulf ports and waterways are also vital to the transport of
oil and coal within the region and up the Mississippi River.

*What was the context in which the nominee(s) addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?*

Waterways had to be surveyed and cleared before the U.S. Coast Guard
could allow oil tankers, cargo ships, and other vessels to safely
transit the area. Ships have gotten longer, wider and deeper, and
determining precise water depths is imperative for safe navigation.
Hurricanes play havoc with the sea bottom, rendering the depths and
obstructions on nautical charts obsolete. Due to the general
devastation, the nominees worked under very hazardous conditions that
risked their safety and health, as food, supplies, fuel, housing and
relief were scarce.

*What specific actions did the nominee(s) take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?*

NRTs surveyed waterways around the clock for wrecked vessels and oil
rigs, large debris, and shoaling that can damage or ground passing
vessels. Numerous logistical and physical obstacles had to be overcome
on a daily basis. Other staff provided critical water level support,
replacing destroyed tide gauges and installing new ones under extremely
difficult conditions. These activities required a large-scale response
effort with federal, state and local governments. NOAA field and
headquarters personnel worked tirelessly, holding extensive daily
internal and external coordination meetings with multiple agencies so
that field units had clear destinations and identified logistical and
technical support.

*What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?*

The survey results allowed the USCG to reopen 13 major ports and
waterways to maritime commerce and emergency relief within days after
both hurricanes landed.

[Section 3. Additional Information]{.underline}

*How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented deployed?*

Information from the NOAA emergency hydrographic surveys allowed the
USCG to reopen all 13 major Gulf ports and waterways within days after
the hurricanes struck. This nation is heavily dependent on maritime
trade, much of which flows through the impacted ports in Louisiana,
Texas, Alabama and Mississippi. They are heavily linked to the nation's
petroleum, grain and farm products, fruit, poultry, coffee, chemical and
steel trades. The Port of New Orleans is the focal point for waterborne
transportation of cargo to 28 states and supported \$37 billion in
economic benefits to the country.

*What is the short-term impact (1-2) years of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or the Department's mission?*

The USCG recognized NOAA on November 15, 2005 for "exceptionally
meritorious service from August 29 to September 17 while serving on the
Hurricane Katrina Waterways Survey and Reconstitution Team." In response
to the hurricane's catastrophic effects, the maritime industry, USACOE,
USCG and NOAA devised a safe, orderly, and systematic plan for reopening
the waterways of southeast Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, ensuring
that vital cargo could be delivered safely and efficiently to nationally
important facilities along the Gulf Coast.

*Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how?
Does the accomplishment affect other bureas/Department or other Federal
agencies? If so, how?*

NOAA hydrographic expertise was deployed in advance of the hurricanes'
landfall, ensuring that emergency surveys would be conducted as soon as
possible after the hurricanes hit. The complexity of the related
logistics under such disastrous conditions required extensive
coordination with USCG, USACOE, Navy, FEMA, and state and local
governments. NOAA personnel's dedication and tireless efforts provided a
superlative level of customer service to all of these partners, helping
them accomplish their missions, and serving the people of the Gulf
Coast.

*Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in the science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?* No.

*What is the long-term impact (3-5) years of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or the Department's mission?*

NOAA's hydrographic capabilities are essential to the future recovery of
these ports by ensuring that accurate navigation products and
information are available for the mariners transiting in and out of
these economically critical areas.

**NWS NOMINATIONS**

**Charles McCreery Group**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Personal and Professional Excellence**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 42**

**1. Type of Award:** Gold

**2. Nomination Type:** Group

**3. Nomination Category:** Personal and Professional Excellence

**4. Name of Nominee:** Charles McCreery, NWS

> **Salutation:** Dr.
>
> **Pronunciation:** MAC creary
>
> **Title**: Director
>
> **Series and Grade:** GS-1301-15

**Name of Nominee:** Stuart Weinstein, NWS

> **Salutation:** Dr.
>
> **Pronunciation:** WINE stine
>
> **Title**: Tsunami Warning Coordinator
>
> **Series and Grade:** GS-1301-14

**Name of Nominee:** Barry Hirshorn, NWS

> **Salutation:** Mr.
>
> **Pronunciation:** HER shorn
>
> **Title**: Geophysicist
>
> **Series and Grade:** GS-1301-14
>
> **Complete office address:** NOAA National Weather Service
>
> Richard H. Hagemeyer Pacific Tsunami Warning
>
> 91-270 Fort Weaver Road
>
> Ewa Beach, HI 96706-2928

**Name of Nominee:** Paula Dunbar, NESDIS

**Salutation:** Ms.

**Pronunciation:** DUN bar

**Title**: Physical Scientist

**Series and Grade:** ZP 1301 - III

**Complete office address:** NOAA National Geophysical Data Center

DSRC MC EGC2

325 Broadway

> Boulder, CO 80305-3328

**Name of Nominee:** Paul Whitmore, NWS

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** WHIT more

**Title**: Director

**Series and Grade:** GS-1301-15

**Complete office address:** NOAA National Weather Service

West Coast-Alaska Tsunami Warning Center

910 S Felton Street

Palmer AK 99645-6552

**Name of Nominee:** Harold Mofjeld, OAR

**Salutation:** Dr.

**Pronunciation:** MO feld

**Title**: Oceanographer

**Series and Grade:** GS-1360-14

**Name of Nominee:** Christian Meinig, OAR

**Salutation:** Mr

**Pronunciation:** MINE ig

**Title**: Supv. General Engineer

**Series and Grade:** GS-0801-15

**Complete office address:** NOAA Pacific Marine Environmental
Laboratory

> 7600 Sand Point Way, NE
>
> Seattle, WA 98115

**Name of Nominee:** Delores Clark, UNSEC

**Salutation:** Mrs.

**Pronunciation:** CLARK

**Title**: NOAA Public Affairs Officer

**Series and Grade:** GS-1035-13

**Complete office address:** NOAA Public Affairs

737 Bishop Street, Suite 2200

**5. Other NOAA Awards:** McCreery - None

Weintsein - None

Hirshorn - None

Dunbar -- None

Whitmore -- NOAA Bronze Medal in December 1998

Mofjeld -- DOC group Gold Medal in December 2005

Meinig -- DOC group Gold Medal in December 2005

Clark - 2002 NOAA Administrator\'s Award -- PA Group

> \- 2005 NOAA Administrator\'s Award -- PA Group

**6. Current Performance Rating:** Pass for all

**7. Nominator's Name, Title, complete office address, and phone
number:**

Ralph J. LaDouce, Director

NWS Pacific Region

737 Biship St., Suite 2200, Mauka, Honolulu, HI 96813-3213

Telephone: (808) 532-6416

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

The group was the nation's source of vital information on tsunami
warnings, detection, and mitigation for national and international
government officials, world-wide media outlets, and documentaries.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

For personal and professional excellence as the Nation's experts and
spokespersons on tsunamis following the December 26, 2004, Indian Ocean
tsunami.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

Immediately following the December 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the world
clamored for information on all subjects related to tsunamis. These
highly dedicated NOAA professionals unselfishly responded to more than
500 separate media request for interviews and documentaries from around
the world. Their ability to satisfy the many requests is most impressive
considering their expertise was essential to develop enhanced national
and international tsunami programs. Their untiring personal and
professional efforts reflect great credit on themselves, their line
offices, and NOAA.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

Department of Commerce DOC

Department of Transportation DOT

Federal Emergency Management Agency FEMA

Global Earth Observation System of Systems GEOSS

Non-Government Organizations NGOs

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NOAA

United States Geological Survey USGS

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all four questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.)

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department's mission/or Strategic Plan?**

> The response by the group in providing accurate and timely information
> about tsunamis to the media, the public, and a variety of government
> and non-governmental officials directly supports the DOC Strategic
> Goal 3 to observe, protect, and manage the Earth's resources to
> promote environmental stewardship. This relates directly to the NOAA
> Mission and the Weather and Water Goal Performance Objectives to: 1)
> improve predictability of the onset, duration, and impact of hazardous
> and severe weather and water events, 2) increase coordination of
> weather and water information and services with integration of local,
> regional, and global observation systems, and 3) enhance environmental
> literacy and improve understanding, value, and use of weather and
> water information and services.

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

> Each nominee played a significant role managing the information flow
> about DOC/NOAA's Tsunami Warning Program, and utilized their expertise
> to further enhance the Tsunami Warning Program among other US and
> international governmental, research, and NGO communities. This was
> particularly critical because they were inundated with inquiries from
> impacted Indian Ocean nations, the media, and interested donor
> agencies about the DOC/NOAA's capabilities.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> Nominees made selfless contributions during the days and weeks
> following the Indian Ocean Tsunami. They worked extensive hours to
> make themselves available and to use their expertise and experience to
> provide timely and accurate information about known tsunami hazards,
> and the technologies developed by DOC/NOAA organizations to monitor
> tsunamis, forecast their impact, and issue rapid and reliable
> warnings.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms[?]{.underline}**

> Clear, consistent, and coordinated information from within the
> Department was made available in the aftermath of the December 26,
> 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami to Congress, the Administration, and others.
> This information established the baseline for the subsequent upgrade
> of the U.S. Tsunami Warning Program by Congress.

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all six questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.)

-   How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?

> These NOAA employees began responding to inquiries immediately
> following the earthquake on 26 December 2004. Outreach to U.S. and
> foreign government officials and media (worldwide) peaked in the
> initial weeks following the tsunami, but continued high throughout the
> year. The one-year anniversary of the tsunami brought renewed interest
> from media and the public.

-   What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?

> The activities of this group directly affect DOC/NOAA's mission to
> manage coastal and marine resources. Understanding natural hazards
> such as tsunami, is crucial to enhancing human health, safety and
> welfare, alleviating human suffering, protecting the global
> environment, and achieving sustainable development.

-   What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?

> The Group's performance firmly established NOAA's leadership role in
> tsunami hazards, nationally and internationally. This in turn
> reinforced NOAA's role within GEOSS to enable greater sharing of Earth
> observation data and information that are timely, of known quality,
> long-term, and global in nature.

-   Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?

> Preparation for and response to tsunami hazard requires coordination
> between NOAA, FEMA, DOT, USGS, State, regional, and local governments.
> Global tsunami warning and mitigation is a key objective of the
> international Group on Earth Observations and is a key first activity
> within GEOSS. The actions of this group influenced the NOAA Tsunami
> Program and improved coordination and communication among all
> agencies.

-   Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?

> The group's work facilitated the efforts of many nations, and the
> activities of many intergovernmental and non-governmental
> organizations, on the science, technology and automation required to
> respond to the challenge of establishing an effective Tsunami Warning
> System beyond the nations of the Pacific Rim, in such a short period
> of time.

-   Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?

> Their efforts enhanced the work of many other people worldwide, who
> responded to the political and humanitarian efforts demanded by the
> nations of the Indian Ocean region.

**Bruce Turner Group**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Leadership**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 43**

**1. Type of Award:** Gold

**2. Nomination Type:** Group

**3. Nomination Category:** Leadership

**4. All Nominees: National Weather Service**

**Name of Nominee:** Bruce Turner

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** tur nur

**Title**: Scientific Officer

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-14

**Name of Nominee:** Melinda Hinojosa

**Salutation:** Mrs.

**Pronunciation**: henna hosa

**Title**: Marine and Public Program Meteorologist

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-13

**Name of Nominee:** Donald J. Miller

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** mill er

**Title**: Operational Support Meteorologist

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-13

**Name of Nominee:** James Partain

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** par tane

**Title**: Chief, Environmental and Scientific Services Division

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-15

**Name of Nominee:** Dennis Decker

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** deck er

**Title**: Warning Coordination Meteorologist

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-14

**Name of Nominee:** Bart Hagemeyer

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** hag a meyer

**Title**: Meteorologist-In-Charge

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-15

**Name of Nominee:** Paul Whitmore

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** wit more

**Title**: Scientist-In-Charge

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-15

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:** Dennis Decker -- Silver
1989

> James Partain -- Administrator's Award

1995

Paul Whitmore -- Bronze 1998

> James Partain -- Bronze 1999
>
> Bart Hagemeyer - Administrator's
>
> Award 2001
>
> James Partain -- Administrator's Award
>
> 2005

**6. Current Performance Rating:** Pass for all.

**7. Nominator's Name, Title, complete office address, and telephone
number:**

Mr. X. William Proenza, Director

NOAA/National Weather Service Southern Region Headquarters

819 Taylor Street, Room 10A03

Fort Worth, Texas 76102

Telephone: (817) 978-1000

Laura Furgione, Director

> NOAA/National Weather Service Alaska Region Headquarters\
> 222 West 7th Ave #23\
> Anchorage, AK 99513-7575
>
> Telephone: (907) 271-5136

Dean Gulezian, Director

> NOAA/National Weather Service Eastern Region Headquarters

630 Johnson Avenue Suite 202

Bohemia, NY 11716

Telephone: (631) 244-0101

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

Through the leadership, innovation, support and dedication of these
individuals, a Southern and Eastern U.S. Tsunami Warning System was
implemented in April 2005.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

For leadership, innovation & dedication to the United States public for
implementing the Southern & Eastern U.S. Tsunami Warning System in April
2005.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

The group is honored for their indispensable leadership and support to
NWS field offices, partners and customers after the devastating December
26, 2004 tsunami. Their leadership, innovation and action led to the
rapid development of a Tsunami Warning System for the southern and
eastern United States, where none existed before. Their rapid response
ensured the West Coast / Alaska Tsunami Warning Center and the coastal
Weather Forecast Offices issued and disseminated Tsunami
Warnings/Watches to the coastal residents and state and federal partners
of the southern and eastern United States.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 -- Definitions:]{.underline}**

DHS Department of Homeland Security

FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency

NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NWS National Weather Service

PMEL Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory

RFC River Forecast Center

WC/ATWC West Coast / Alaska Tsunami Warning Center

WFO Weather Forecast Office

**[Section 2 -- Award Justification:]{.underline}**

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department's mission or Strategic Plan? DOC Goal 3 Observe, protect,
    and manage the Earth's resources to promote environmental
    stewardship.** The group's efforts led to the implementation of a
    Tsunami Warning System for the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coastal
    areas. This system guarantees a timely and accurate response by
    state and federal decision-makers and the public prior to, during,
    and after any tsunami that may impact the region.

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?** The group quickly ramped up a new warning
    system as the media and political attention of tsunami warning
    systems was being investigated around the world.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?** The group first developed and implemented an
    interim tsunami warning plan for the southern and eastern United
    States within two weeks of the December 26, 2004 devastating
    tsunami. The group then held weekly conference calls, conducted
    communication tests and drafted policy documents, which led to a
    Tsunami Operational Workshop in March 2005. This workshop, conducted
    with coastal WFOs and Emergency Managers, detailed tsunami
    preparedness and readiness regarding the proposed new warning
    system. The result of the group's work was the final implementation
    of the new Tsunami Warning System on April 20, 2005. Throughout the
    process, the group maintained constant communication with affected
    staff members, senior management and public affairs officials of NWS
    and NOAA, and key state and federal decision-makers, including FEMA
    and state Emergency Managers.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?** No tsunami warning system was in place before
    December 26, 2004 for the southern and eastern United States. The
    group implemented a Tsunami Warning System for that region which
    will help minimize disruption in critical warning and forecast
    services at impacted offices with the established operational
    procedures between the WC/ATWC and the coastal WFOs and RFCs. The
    NWS's support to state, media and federal partners will help notify
    customers and partners and increase response, preparedness, and
    recovery efforts in the impacted areas.

    **[Section 3 -- Additional Information:]{.underline}**

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?** The group started
    their planning in early January and implemented the new warning
    system on April 20, 2005. Support for the new system continued for
    the rest of the year (and continues).

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?** The group quickly
    addressed the absence of a tsunami warning system for the southern
    and eastern United States. Within four months, they ensured the
    WC/ATWC and the coastal WFOs issued and disseminated Tsunami
    Warnings and Tsunami Watches to the coastal residents and state and
    federal partners of the southern and eastern United States.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?** The Southern and Eastern
    Tsunami Warning System ensures the WC/ATWC and the coastal WFOs
    issue and disseminate Tsunami Warnings and Tsunami Watches to the
    coastal residents and state and federal partners of the southern and
    eastern United States. The group continues to assist in establishing
    closer partnerships with emergency responders, promotes a greater
    reliance on environmental information within society, and enhances
    tsunami warning response, education, and preparedness within the
    region.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Departments or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?** The services of the group positively
    affected a wide range of federal and state agencies. Most notably,
    federal and state officials, including FEMA, DHS and the state
    Emergency Managers, as well as NOAA research groups (such as PMEL),
    voiced appreciation for the work of the group.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?** The group demonstrated that
    the leadership of sharing of information can formulate rapid
    solutions to complex problems over long distances.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas, such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?** The group's accomplishments have resulted in
    strong positive public relations for NOAA and the NWS. Agency field
    offices and emergency responders have praised the quick
    implementation of the new Tsunami Warning System in supporting their
    needs and the needs of their customers.

**WFO New Orleans, et al**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 44**

**1. Type of Award:** Gold

**2. Nomination Type:** Joint Organization

**3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service

**4. Name of Nominee:** New Orleans Weather Forecast Office, NWS

Mobile Weather Forecast Office, NWS

Lower Mississippi River Forecast Center, NWS

Accepting the Award

Paul Trotter Pronunciation: TROT-er

Meteorologist In Charge WFO New Orleans

Randy McKee Pronunciation: mah-KEY

Meteorologist In Charge WFO Mobile

Dave Reed Pronunciation: As Written

Hydrologist In Charge, Lower Mississippi River Forecast Center

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:**

Lower Mississippi River Forecast Center DOC Bronze Medal 1996, 2002

**6. Current Performance Rating:** Not Applicable

**7. Nominator=s Name, Title, complete office address, and phone
number:**

X. William Proenza, Regional Director

NWS Southern Region

819 Taylor St. Rm 10E09

Fort Worth, TX 76102

Ph: 817 978 1000

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment? (200
characters)]{.underline}**

During Hurricane Katrina, the staff at the three Offices provided life
saving forecasts and warnings to the citizens of the Central Gulf Coast
while enduring tremendous personal risk and sacrifice.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline} (150 characters).**

For providing critical and life saving forecasts and warnings to the
citizens of the Central Gulf Coast before, during, and after Hurricane
Katrina.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}** (**600 characters).**

During the approach and landfall of Hurricane Katrina, the staffs at the
three Offices issued high quality, timely, definitive warnings and
provided detailed briefings to officials which resulted in
unprecedented, life-saving actions. During the recovery period, despite
horrific damages to the area, and loss of communications, the staffs
continued to meet the NWS mission responsibilities while at personal
risk and while under great personal stress to care for families and
homes, some of which had been made unlivable due to Katrina.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

DHS Department of Homeland Security

EPA Environmental Protection Agency

FEB Federal Executive Board

FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency

LMRFC Lower Mississippi River Forecast Center

NIFC National Interagency Finance Center

NOAA HAZMAT NOAA Hazardous Materials (Support Group)

OEP Office of Emergency Preparedness

USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers

USCG United States Coast Guard

USGS United States Geological Survey

WFO Weather Forecast Office

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}** (cannot exceed 1900.)

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department=s mission/or Strategic Plan?**

The provision of the critical warnings, forecasts, and advisories are
directly related to the Department's Strategic Goal 3, Objective 3.1, to
"advance understanding and predict changes in the Earth's environment to
meet America's economic, social, and environmental needs."

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

The staffs remained at their posts providing critical services while
evacuations in area were underway. During the event, the staffs remained
on duty issuing critical life saving forecasts, warnings, and briefings
to emergency management, media, and the public while enduring extremely
adverse conditions. High winds, flooding, and damage were occurring in
the vicinity of all three offices as operations continued. When
communications failed at the New Orleans offices, the Mobile Office
began backup support for the New Orleans WFO while a well tested
hurricane backup plan was enacted for the RFC. After the storm, despite
having suffered personal losses, staffs remained on duty providing
critical services for recovery efforts.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

Before the storm, the offices provided a continuous flow of critical
information to the public, media, and emergency officials. The advanced
warnings saved thousands of lives. A particular statement issued by the
New Orleans office on the day before the Hurricane made landfall was
prophetic in nature describing the devastating impact which ultimately
materialized. The staffs left no stone unturned in providing critical
information to emergency managers and first responders to assist in
preparations for the developing disaster.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms[?]{.underline}**

Without question, thousands of lives were saved because of the
information provided by these offices. Nationwide, even worldwide
recognition and praise was given to the NWS for the accuracy and urgency
of the warnings and information provided regarding the forecast impact
of this devastating hurricane.

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}** (cannot exceed
1900.)

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

Briefings of officials began on August 24 and warning information flow
was then continuous through landfall of the hurricane on August 29.
After landfall, backup operations for the New Orleans offices continued
until September 19.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

The services provided by these offices led to the National Weather
Service being recognized, nationally and internationally, as one of the
most effective agencies during this catastrophic natural disaster. The
Congress has provided additional supplemental funding to NOAA and the
NWS to further advance hurricane forecasting. The backup procedures
established well in advance proved effective when needed; however, the
loss of communications at some NWS offices exposed a problem in vendor
supplied communications which will result in refinement and redesign of
some backup procedures.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

The accuracy and effectiveness of NWS services during this devastating
hurricane will give additional credibility to NWS forecasts and warnings
for years to come. It is anticipated users of NWS information will act
even sooner based on NWS information regarding hazardous weather impacts
and additional lives will be saved.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

Absoutely. The information and services provided aided our federal
partners such as the FEB, DHS, USCG, USACE, USGS, FEMA, EPA, NIFC, the
Red Cross, and NOAA HAZMAT Also, state and local emergency managers and
first responders used the information prior, during, and after Katrina's
landfall. This aided them in meeting their missions of evacuation and
pre-positioning of supplies, and subsequent search, rescue, and recovery
activities.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?**

Increased use of graphical warning information will result in improved
customer response when faced with hazardous weather dangers.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

It was demonstrated the NWS could effectively use backup support to
continue seamless hydrometeorological and observational data services
during a major communications outage.

> **WFO Lake Charles, LA**
>
> **Gold Medal Nomination**
>
> **Customer Service**
>
> **NWS**
>
> **Nomination \# 45**

1.  **Type of Award**: Gold

2.  **Nomination Type**: Organization

3.  **Nomination Category**: Customer Service

4.  **Name of Nominee**: WFO Lake Charles, LA

> National Weather Service
>
> **Office Address**: National Weather Service, NOAA
>
> Weather Forecast Office (WFO) Lake Charles
>
> 500 Airport Blvd, #115
>
> Lake Charles, LA 70607-0668

Accepting the Award: Stephen Rinard Pronunciation: STEVE-an ren-ARD

Meteorologist In Charge

5\. **Past Awards**: Bronze Medal 2002

6.  **Current Performance Rating**: N/A

7.  **Nominator**: X. William Proenza, Director

> National Weather Service Southern Region

819 Taylor Street

Room 10A03

Fort Worth, TX 76102

817-978-1000

**Significance of this Accomplishment**:

WFO Lake Charles, as a long term task, developed and implemented a life
saving partnership with elected officials and emergency managers
instrumental in an absolute minimal loss of life during hurricane Rita.

**Certificate Text**:

For implementation of an awareness and preparedness program which was
instrumental in an absolute minimal loss of life during hurricane Rita.

**Program Text**:

Hurricanes have been a major cause of loss of life in SE Texas and SW
Louisiana (Galveston/ 1900/6000; Audrey/1957/600). WFO Lake Charles
identified the hurricane as its most significant threat to public safety
in its area of responsibility. A long term effort was established to
ensure that elected officials, emergency responders and the public
understood this threat and the NWS programs that would enable them to
make critical life saving decisions. The success of these efforts is
evident as only *one* hurricane related death occurred as Rita ripped
into SW Louisiana.

**Justification**:

**Definitions**:

SE -- Southeast

USACOE- United States Army Corps of Engineers

USCG -- United States Coast Guard

USN -- United States Navy

WFO -- Weather Forecast Office

**Award Justification**:

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
department's mission or strategic plan?**

The provision of the critical warnings, forecasts, and advisories and
the preparedness activities undertaken are directly related to the
Department's Strategic Goal 3, Objective 3.1, to "advance understanding
and predict changes in the Earth's environment to meet America's
economic, social, and environmental needs."

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

The most accurate weather forecast/warning is greatly diminished unless
elected officials, emergency responders and the public understand the
threat and properly responds. Therefore, an extensive, on-going
awareness partnership was developed with parties and individuals who
needed to respond to the hurricane threat. In addition, during the
event, the WFO staff remained at their posts providing critical services
despite mandatory evacuations in the area and danger to their own
families.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

In the long term, yearly hurricane conferences, hurricane hunter
aircraft tours, industry mutual aid meetings, county emergency
manager/responder workshops, table-top drills, civic club meetings,
school tours and open house sessions were just some of the means to
increase awareness. In the short term during the Rita hurricane event,
the staff presented over 80 personal and telephone briefings to city and
county officials/responders as well as TV and radio media providing
critical**,** life-saving information.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

It is impossible to determine how many lives were saved by this
awareness effort. However, when comparing the *one* Rita fatality with
similar local hurricanes (Galveston, 6000; Audrey, 600) leads to the
obvious conclusion that the hurricane preparedness partnerships were
successful. Elected officials and emergency responders had the
up-to-date information to make correct life-saving decisions and the
public responded. Two weeks after Rita, the chief meteorologist of
KATC-TV wrote "Your staff and office fulfilled its mission of saving
life and property."

**Additional Information**:

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

The campaign of increased hurricane awareness began in 1999 with a
hurricane workshop for elected officials/emergency responders. This
program, with attendance normally at 300, continues yearly alternating
between Lake Charles and Beaumont**,** TX.

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 yrs) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

Shortly after Rita, the chairman of the SE Texas Mutual Aid Association
wrote to the NWS Southern Region director stating: "The partnership
between the Lake Charles WFO and the emergency response community of SE
Texas is priceless. Thank you for providing the quality of services in
the Lake Charles NWS that really does save lives!"

**What is the long-term impact (3-5 yrs) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department mission?**

The life saving success story of WFO Lake Charles partnerships should
not be considered an isolated, one time Rita incident. In 2003, the
*American Press* editorialized, "Calcasieu Parish's Office of Emergency
Preparedness, the Lake Charles NWS office and local industry deserve a
salute for innovation and ingenuity that has helped to make the Lake
Area safer." Such partnerships making things safer continue to improve
with time.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies?**

Spot weather forecasts provided to decision makers during clean-up are
essential for safe, efficient operations. Partnerships developed with
government agencies, e.g. USCG, USACOE, USN, expedited the process.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology or automation?**

Science and technology is interesting in its self but must be *applied*
to make an impression in our society. Science and technology when
applied to saving lives is the vision and goal of the NWS. Partnerships
developed expedited this quest.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support?**

The absolute minimal loss of life during the Rita onslaught was directly
related to the planning, cooperation and close working partnerships
developed between WFO Lake Charles and the vast interrelated groups of
state, parish, county and local emergency responders and elected
officials.

**Tropical Prediction Center/National Hurricane Center**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 46**

**1. Type of Award:** Gold

**2. Nomination Type:** Organization

**3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service

**4. Name of Nominee:** Tropical Prediction Center/National Hurricane
Center (TPC/NHC/NWS)

**Accepting the Award:** Max Mayfield

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** MAY-field

**Title**: Director, Tropical Prediction Center/National Hurricane
Center

**Series and Grade:** SES

**Complete office address:** TPC/National Hurricane Center

> 11691 SW 17^th^ Street

Miami, FL 33165-2149

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:** Gold Medal September 1992

Gold Medal November 2004 (Joint)

Gold Medal December 2005 (Joint)

**6. Current Performance Rating:** N/A

**7. Nominator=s Name, Title, complete office address, and phone
number:**

Louis Uccellini

Director, NOAA/NWS National Centers for Environmental Prediction

5200 Auth Rd. Rm 101

Camp Springs, MD 20746

\(301\) 763-8016

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

TPC/NHC staff raised the gold standard for public service by ensuring
public awareness of the pending dangers posed by the unprecedented
hurricane threats to this nation in 2005.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

For establishing a high standard of public service that saved lives and
protected property from the historic hurricane threats of 2005.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

The TPC/NHC provided exceptional products and services during 2005, for
a record number of hurricanes\--including three of the six strongest
hurricanes in at least the past 150 years\--and most notably during the
U.S. landfall of "major" hurricane Dennis, Katrina, Rita and Wilma. It
delivered timely and effective forecasts and warnings even while storms
left its own staff without conventional municipal services for many
days, damaged their homes and, in some cases, left their homes
uninhabitable. TPC/NHC met its GPRA goal during this challenging period.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

TPC/NHC -- Tropical Prediction Center/National Hurricane Center

GPRA -- Government Performance and Results Act

AMS -- American Meteorological Society

FEMA -- Federal Emergency Management Agency

nm -- nautical miles

LA -- Louisiana

MS -- Mississippi

AL - Alabama

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all four questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.)

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department=s mission/or Strategic Plan?**

Department Strategic Goal/Objective 3.1: *Advance understanding and
predict changes in the Earth's environment to meet America's economic,
social and environmental needs.*

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

Hurricanes of unprecedented number and intensity formed in 2005, several
striking the United States including major hurricanes Dennis, Katrina,
Rita and Wilma. TPC/NHC performed superbly even while its facility and
staff were themselves under siege from storms.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

TPC/NHC provided a constant stream of text and graphical products,
dozens of briefings to emergency managers, hundreds of coordination
calls to domestic and international partners, over a thousand media
interviews, thousands more telephone briefings, and seven billion public
"hits" from its web page. As an example of its special actions,
TPC/NHC's emphasized the unusual threat posed by Hurricane Katrina in
its director's calls to the Mayor of New Orleans and the Governors'
offices in LA, MS and AL.

Sen. Demint (SC) noted:\
\
*"It is highly rare for a career scientist to take the initiative to
personally call elected officials."*

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

TPC/NHC performance received commendations from the highest levels.

President Bush, following his visit to the TPC/NHC:

> *Thank you for your dedication, especially during the recent
> hurricanes. Your efforts help to ensure a safer future for our
> citizens.*

That performance saved lives.

U.S. Senator Jim DeMint (SC), Chairman of Commerce Committee's Disaster
Prediction and Prevention Subcommittee:

> *"...These early and accurate forecasts \[of Katrina\] saved countless
> lives along the Gulf Coast....We owe a debt of gratitude to Director
> Mayfield and his team of scientists for their hard work."*

Mr. Craig Fugate, Director and State Coordinating Officer, Florida
Division of Emergency Management:

> "Your forecasts... during the storms this past year paid off in lives
> saves...Thanks from a Grateful State."

The performance also exceeded expectations. Preliminary annual data show
TPC/NHC beat its GPRA goal by more than 20%.

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all six questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.)

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

An extended hurricane season ending January 2006 with a record 30
Atlantic tropical cyclones (\~12 is normal). This included a new record
number of hurricanes for a year, the strongest hurricane, and six U.S.
hurricane impacts (\~2 is the average).

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

Lives and property were saved by the high level of service provided by
TPC/NHC staff.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

Raised credibility and trust in Commerce and the Federal Government
through large volume of positive exposure during storms, and as
commented by Congress during TPC/NHC testimonies.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

Yes. TPC/NHC provided other federal agencies extra time for preparation
and response.

Comments include:

Mr. Michael Chertoff, Secretary of Homeland Security:

> *"...your applied knowledge and experience help save lives."*

It also has a lasting impact by raising public service standards.

Rear Admiral Steven Tomaszeski, Oceanographer of the Navy:

> *"...your \[Director Mayfield\] professional execution of duty and
> that of your Hurricane Center Team was simply exceptional."*

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?**

TPC/NHC 48-hour track forecast errors averaged near 99 nm in 2005,
beating its GPRA goal of 128 nm.

Forecasts for U.S. hurricanes were very accurate. Sen. Demint (SC)
wrote:

> *"...almost sixty hours before Katrina made landfall, the National
> Hurricane Center warned the region"*

TPC/NHC introduced experimental products in 2005 enhancing information
for decision makers:

Mr. Ben Nelson, State Meteorologist, Florida Division of Emergency
Management:

> *"...of the 10 briefing slides...I presented to Governor Bush this
> afternoon, the one that drew praise was the 50 kt wind speed
> probabilities graphic. I explained that this was a new tool developed
> by the NHC that will assist emergency managers\....He was impressed
> with the information that the new tool will provide for our decision
> makers here in Florida."*

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

> TPC/NHC staff worked hundreds of extra hours and redirected thousands
> of regular hours to enhance operational services and meet additional
> administrative challenges, while overcoming personal hardships caused
> by storms.

**John Jensenius**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 47**

**1. Type of Award:** Gold

**2. Nomination Type:** Individual

**3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service

**4. Name of Nominee:** John S. Jensenius, Jr.

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** Jen-sen-ee-us

**Title**: Warning Coordination Meteorologist

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-14

**Complete office address:** NOAA -- National Weather Service

> Weather Forecast Office
>
> 1 Weather Lane
>
> P.O. Box 1208
>
> Gray, Maine 04039-1208

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:** None

**6. Current Performance Rating:** Exceeds Expectations

**7. Nominator=s Name, Title, complete office address, and phone
number:**

Dean Gulezian

Director, Eastern Region, National Weather Service

630 Johnson Ave, Suite 202

Bohemia, NY 11716

631 244 0101

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

Mr. Jensenius initiated, developed, and assisted in executing NOAA's
Lightning Safety Awareness Program. As a result, from 2001 to 2005,
fatalities caused by lightning decreased by 27% across the USA.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

For outstanding initiative, creativity, and execution in leading NOAA's
Lightning Safety Awareness Program.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

Mr. Jensenius is honored for initiating NOAA's Lightning Safety
Awareness Program. He initiated the first Lightning Safety Awareness
Week in 2001 and organized a team to work on a national effort to
promote lightning safety. He developed awareness themes, public service
announcements, and website information. He appeared live on the CBS
Early Show to promote lightning safety and provided lightning graphics
for publication in USA Today. Since 2001, NOAA's Lightning Safety
Awareness Week has saved lives by promoting environmental awareness and
improving public understanding of lightning hazards.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

NOAA -- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NWS -- National Weather Service

DOC -- Department of Commerce

PGA -- Professional Golfers Association

MLB -- Major League Baseball

FEMA -- Federal Emergency Management Agency

NLSI -- National Lightning Safety Institute

AP -- The Associated Press

VADM -- Vice Admiral

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}**

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department=s mission/or Strategic Plan?**

DOC Strategic Goal 3. Lightning is the #2 weather killer in the USA with
an average of 67 people killed annually. Before 2001, NOAA did not have
an organized and comprehensive education and awareness program on
lightning. Recognizing the need for lightning awareness and education in
his local area, Mr. Jensenius initiated a lightning safety awareness
week campaign in New England. The success of the New England campaign
prompted John to initiate and develop a national campaign and awareness
program.

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

Mr. Jensenius drafted a vision and proposal for a NOAA Lightning Safety
Awareness Week campaign. He marshaled resources to develop and produce
educational material and partnered with public and private entities to
execute an awareness program.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

Mr. Jensenius enlisted the help of lightning experts to develop
awareness themes, public service announcements and a website
[www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov](http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/). He
partnered with public and private entities, e.g., PGA, MLB, FEMA, NLSI,
to promote NOAA's Lightning Safety Awareness Week. He appeared live on
CBS's Early Show and NBC's Today Show to promote the campaign. He worked
with Little League Baseball to promote lightning awareness and authored
a "Coach's and Sports Official's Guide to Lightning Safety" brochure. He
worked with the Jeopardy Show to use "Lightning Safety" as a category.
He has participated in interviews with AP, National Geographic, Runner's
World, and the Farmer's Almanac. He designed the poster used for the
2005 awareness week campaign.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

Lives were saved. Since 2001, fatalities due to lightning have decreased
by 27%. In a personal thank you to Mr. Jensenius, VADM Lautenbacher
noted, "Thanks from everyone at NOAA! The "chat" you conducted on
USAToday.com and this morning's Today Show interview were excellent, a
proud reflection of NOAA's efforts and our educational outreach. Thanks,
too, for initiating the entire lightning safety effort and for your
day-to-day work in Maine. Your leadership efforts are outstanding."

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all six questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.)

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

Mr. Jensenius' interest in lightning safety awareness began in 1999. In
2000, he drafted a proposal for a NOAA Lightning Safety Awareness Week
campaign. Since June 2001, NOAA's Lightning Safety Awareness Week
campaigns have successfully promoted environmental awareness and
improved public understanding of lightning hazards.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

Since 2001, as a result of NOAA's Lightning Safety Awareness Week
campaigns, there has been a decline in the number of lightning deaths
nationwide. In 2000, there were 52 lightning deaths nationwide compared
to 38 lightning deaths in 2005, a 27% reduction.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

More lives being saved. Due to the success of NOAA's annual Lightning
Safety Awareness Week campaigns, a continued decline in the number of
lighting deaths and injuries is expected. Lightning education will
assist DOC/NOAA meet the goal of promoting environmental literacy.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

NOAA's Lightning Safety Awareness Program and Lightning Safety Awareness
Week campaigns have a direct impact on any Department or Federal
agencies whose workforce is involved in outside activities and exposed
to dangerous lightning.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?**

The public has a much better understanding of the dangers of lightning.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

NOAA's Lightning Safety Awareness Program and Awareness Week campaigns
have resulted in public awareness as to the dangers of lightning and a
decline in loss of life due to lightning, the ultimate measure of
customer service.

**WFO Jackson, MS**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 48**

**1. Type of Award:** Gold

**2. Nomination Type:** Organization

**3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service

**4. Name of Nominee:** NOAA/NWS Weather Forecast Office, Jackson, MS

Complete Office Address:

National Weather Service

234 Weather Service Drive

Jackson, MS 39232

Accepting the Award: Alan Gerard Pronunciation: jer-ARD

Meteorologist in Charge

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:**

DOC Silver Medal -- 2003

DOC Bronze Medal -- 2002

DOC Bronze Medal -- 1999

NOAA Unit Citation -- 1996

**6. Current Performance Rating:** N/A

**7. Nominator's Name, Title, Address, Phone Number:**

X. William Proenza

Director, National Weather Service Southern Region

819 Taylor Street, Room 10A03

Fort Worth, TX 76102

\(817\) 978-1000

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

WFO Jackson provided warnings an average of more than 25 minutes in
advance for 14 tornadoes in eastern Mississippi on April 6, 2005. Untold
numbers of lives were saved at a large school in Mize, MS.

**I. Certificate Text**

For providing proactive, innovative and life saving warning services
during the April 6, 2005 eastern Mississippi tornado outbreak.

**II. Program Text**

WFO Jackson provided warnings an average of 25 minutes in advance for 14
tornadoes on April 6, 2005. The WFO also utilized innovative technology
such as instant messaging to enhance communication of critical weather
information with key partners in media and emergency management. The
life-saving results were best seen at a school complex where an F3
tornado destroyed the second story and several portable classroom
buildings. Advanced warning information provided by the WFO enabled the
staff to implement protective measures, resulting in no injuries out of
700 people at the school.

**III. Justification**

**[Section 1 -- Definitions]{.underline}**

WFO -- Weather Forecast Office

MSDE -- Mississippi State Department of Education

EM -- Emergency Manager

Lead Time -- The amount of time a warning is issued before a tornado
actually occurs.

GPRA -- Government Performance and Results Act

**[Section 2 -- Award Justification]{.underline}**

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department=s mission/or Strategic Plan?**

The provision of the critical warnings is directly related to the
Department's Strategic Goal 3, Objective 3.1, to "advance understanding
and predict changes in the Earth's environment to meet America's
economic, social, and environmental needs."

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

WFO Jackson faces unique challenges in its tornado warning program. The
heavily forested areas of southern and eastern Mississippi make storm
spotting nearly impossible, meaning that forecasters must rely heavily
on their own meteorological expertise and experience to provide
proactive warnings based on radar and other data.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

The WFO has taken many proactive steps to ensure effective communication
of warning information. This includes instant messaging with area media
and EMs to communicate NWS expertise regarding evolving storms. The
office has undertaken extensive training, redesigned the operations
area, and implemented innovative new products to provide the absolute
best warning services possible.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

All 14 tornadoes had warnings, and the average lead time of 25.1 minutes
provided by the WFO for these tornadoes, which was nearly twice the
national GPRA metric of 13 minutes. The people of Mize had 30 minutes to
prepare before the tornado reached them, giving school officials time to
move students out of the second story and portable buildings. No
injuries occurred even though about 700 people were in the complex when
it was destroyed by tornado. MSDE School Safety Director Robert Laird
stated in an e-mail, "I will without hesitation credit the NOAA warning
system with preventing a large number of student deaths at the Mize
School District since they had sufficient advance notice to not only
shelter in place, but also evacuate all portable classroom facilities."
In another letter, Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour stated, "Without
question, the low number of injuries and fatalities during these storms
were a direct result of the knowledge, skill, and commitment to saving
lives and property of the Jackson National Weather Service...we are
truly grateful."

**[Section 3 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

The performance of the WFO during this event is the culmination of a
several year effort of training, outreach, partnership, and internal
restructuring.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

The performance of the WFO during this (and other recent) tornado
episodes demonstrate that the NOAA/NWS mission of protecting life and
property in support of the Department's Strategic Goal 3 will continue
to be advanced in the WFO's area of responsibility in coming years.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

Warning information from the WFO has achieved a level of credibility and
accuracy which will enable partners and the general public to have a
high level of trust in this information in coming years.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

Yes. Support provided to federal, state, and local emergency management
agencies prompted preparation for and response to the disaster.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?**

As an example, instant messaging with the media/EM community began to be
explored in 2003. Over time, this program has been expanded and
additional television and radio stations added, until at the time of the
Mize tornado, more than 15 different partners in television, radio, and
emergency management were participating in our interactive chat.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

Several innovative products and services were used by WFO JAN during
this event to maximize service to our customers. In addition to the
instant messaging already discussed, products such as the Graphicast
(graphical representation of storms with forecaster expertise
annotated), the probabilistic graphical hazardous weather outlook
(probability of hazards such as tornadoes), and the Interactive
Graphical Warning Map (graphical web product showing current radar and
warning information) were used during this event. All of these products
have been well received by customers, and their use by EMs, the media,
and other partners during severe weather is extensive.

**Southern Region Headquarters**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Leadership**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 49**

**1. Type of Award:** Gold

**2. Nomination Type:** Organizational

**3. Nomination Category:** Leadership

**4. Name of Nominee:** National Weather Service,

> Southern Region Headquarters (SRH)

**Accepting the Award**: To Be Determined

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:** None

**6. Current Performance Rating:** Not applicable

**7. Nominator's Name, Title, complete office address, and telephone
number:**

Mr. X. William Proenza, Director

NOAA/National Weather Service Southern Region Headquarters

819 Taylor Street, Room 10A03

Fort Worth, Texas 76102

Telephone: (817) 978-1000

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

Through the leadership and support of SRH, NWS field offices were able
to provide and sustain critical warning and forecast operations during
the unprecedented 2005 hurricane season.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

For leadership and support to NWS field offices' critical warning and
forecast operations during the 2005 hurricane season.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

The employees of the Southern Region Headquarters are honored for their
indispensable leadership and administrative, logistical and technical
support to NWS field offices during the unprecedented 2005 hurricane
season. Their leadership and action assisted the offices in preparing
for, delivering and sustaining critical forecast and warning operations
prior to, during, and in the aftermath of the storms. Their timely and
formative response to NWS field offices, as well as state and federal
partners, contributed to saving lives and promoting the NWS and DOC
mission.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 -- Definitions:]{.underline}**

ASOS Automated Surface Observation System

DHS Department of Homeland Security

FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency

HSOC Homeland Security Operations Center

NICC NOAA Incident Command Center

NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NWS National Weather Service

SRH Southern Region Headquarters

WSR-88D Weather Surveillance Radar-Doppler

**[Section 2 -- Award Justification:]{.underline}**

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department's mission or Strategic Plan?** Strategic Goal #3:
    Observe, protect, and manage the Earth's resources to promote
    environmental stewardship. The SRH was challenged with ensuring the
    integrity of field office operations and supporting infrastructure,
    so as to guarantee a timely and accurate response to the weather
    needs (goal performance outcome) of the public, and state and
    federal decision-makers prior to, during, and in the aftermath of
    major hurricanes that impacted Florida and the Gulf Coast.

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?** The SRH provided indispensable
    administrative, logistical, and technical (communication and
    equipment) support both remotely and on-site to impacted NWS
    offices, and weather and information support to state and federal
    partners during mitigation, rescue and recovery phases.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?** SRH facilitated emergency travel
    arrangements to both augment and relieve staff at impacted field
    offices, and establish critical backup operations at neighboring
    offices. They acquired, delivered, and cost-accounted essential
    supplies (including food, water, fuel, and temporary quarters) to
    safeguard staff members in support of sustaining warning and
    forecast operations in the impacted areas. SRH acquired parts and
    performed repairs to critical equipment supporting the operations.
    Finally, SRH maintained communication among and delivery of critical
    information to affected staff members, senior management officials
    of both the NWS and NOAA, and key state and federal decision-makers,
    including the FEMA and the DHS.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?** Actions by SRH helped minimize disruption in
    critical warning and forecast services at impacted offices by
    establishing backup operations at neighboring offices, repairing
    equipment and facilities, and restoring vital communication
    infrastructure. SRH weather support to state and federal partners
    (both remotely and on-site) helped speed recovery efforts in the
    impacted areas.

**[Section 3 -- Additional Information:]{.underline}**

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?** SRH provided
    continued support to its field offices, and state and federal
    partners throughout the unprecedented 2005 hurricane season. The
    most critical demands placed on SRH employees were during August and
    September, when Katrina and Rita struck the Gulf Coast. Requests for
    information by the HSOC and NICC in support of assessment and
    recovery activities continue.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?** SRH established a model of
    rapid response for addressing crucial national economic, social and
    environmental needs resulting from the storms. The support
    facilitated an efficient transfer of critical services from impacted
    offices to backup offices, and enabled the impacted offices to
    reacquire their ability to provide these services in a minimal
    amount of time. Also, it afforded state and federal partners the
    necessary information to mobilize and deploy essential emergency
    resources prior to, during, and after the storms.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?** SRH efforts will assist in
    establishing closer partnerships with emergency responders, ensure a
    more direct connection and reliance on environmental information in
    all sectors of society, and result in better procedures for
    efficiently restoring operational infrastructure and capability to
    impacted agency facilities.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Departments or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?** SRH services contributed to the
    success of a wide range of state and federal agencies. Most notably,
    state and federal emergency management officials, including FEMA and
    the DHS, voiced appreciation for the work of the SRH.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?** The SRH was able to
    evaluate wind load capacities and backup power capabilities on its
    equipment (e.g. WSR-88D, ASOS) and facilities, as well as establish
    benchmarks for satellite-based technology to use in areas without
    commercial power.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas, such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?** SRH accomplishments have resulted in
    overwhelmingly positive public relations for NOAA and the NWS.
    Agency field offices and emergency responders have praised the work
    of the SRH in supporting their needs.

**Akapo Akapo Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Heroism**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 50**

**1. Type of Award:** Silver

**2. Nomination Type:** Group

**3. Nomination Category:** Heroism

**4. Name of Nominee:** Akapo Akapo

> **Salutation:** Mr.
>
> **Pronunciation:** AH cop oh
>
> **Title**: Meteorologist
>
> **Series and Grade:** GS-1340-12

**Name of Nominee:** Carol Ma'afala Baqui

> **Salutation:** Mrs.
>
> **Pronunciation:** BAH key
>
> **Title**: Meteorologist
>
> **Series and Grade:** GS-1340-12

**Name of Nominee:** Roy Laulusa

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** LAH loose ah

**Title**: Meteorological Technician

**Series and Grade:** GS-1341-10

**Name of Nominee:** Emani Lelafu

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** LAY la foo

**Title**: Meteorological Technician

**Series and Grade:** GS-134-10

> **Complete office address:** NOAA National Weather Service Office
>
> P.O. Box 789
>
> Pago Pago, American Samoa 9699

**Name of Nominee:** Robert Watanabe

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** WAH-TAH nob ee

**Title**: Electronics Technician

**Series and Grade:** GS-0856-10

**Complete office address:** NOAA National Weather Service

Kahului International Airport

> Kahului, HI 96732

**Name of Nominee:** Simona Taufua

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** TAU foo-ah

**Title**: Meteorological Technician

**Series and Grade:** GS-1341-10

> **Complete office address:** NOAA National Weather Service Data
> Collection Office
>
> 137 Operations Street
>
> Hilo, HI 96720-4602

**5. Other NOAA Awards:** Akapo -- DOC Silver 1993

Baqui - None

Laulusa - None

Lelafu -- DOC Silver 1993

Watanabe -- None

Taufua - None

**6. Current Performance Rating:** Pass for all

**7. Nominator's Name, Title, complete office address, and phone
number:**

Ralph J. LaDouce, Director

NWS Pacific Region

737 Bishop St., Suite 2200, Mauka, Honolulu, HI 96813-3213

Telephone: (808) 532-6416

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

The group provided critical hurricane warnings to American Samoa during
February, 2005 and kept operating during a 72 hour period when all
off-island communications were lost on January 14, 2005.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

For Public Service and Heroism in providing critical public service to
American Samoa during adverse weather conditions and communications
outages.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

The group, employees of WSO Pago Pago, AS, and a visiting ET, sent to AS
because their station's ET was on away on military deployment to Iraq,
were vigilant in providing critical weather warnings relying on
satellite imagery for hurricanes threatening the territory of AS during
February, 2005. They also provided weather support during an
extraordinary communications outage affecting all of AS's communications
with the outside world, and for the timely repair of an automatic
weather station in eastern AS, utilizing a single available airplane the
day before the approach of Hurricane Nancy.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

American Samoa AS

Department of Commerce DOC

Electronics Technician ET

Independent State of Samoa ISS

Joint Typhoon Warning Center JTWC

National Centers for Environmental Prediction NCEP

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NOAA

National Weather Service NWS

National Weather Service Headquarters NWSH

NOAA Weather Radio NWR

NWS Telecommunications Gateway NWSTG

Non-Government Organization NGO

Pacific Region Headquarters PRH

United States US

Weather Forecast Office WFO

Weather Service Office WSO

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all four questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.)

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department's mission/or Strategic Plan?**

> The provision of timely and accurate adverse hazardous weather
> information by the group to the media, the public, and a variety of
> government and NGO officials directly supports the DOC Strategic Goal
> 3 to observe, protect, and manage the Earth's resources to promote
> environmental stewardship. This relates directly to the NOAA Mission
> and the Weather and Water Goal Performance Objectives to: 1) improve
> predictability of the onset, duration, and impact of hazardous and
> severe weather and water events, even under adverse and catastrophic
> circumstances.

-   **What was the context in which the nominees addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

> Each nominee utilized their experience, expertise, and,
> resourcefulness, and ingenuity in issuing timely and accurate
> forecasts and warnings for 4 hurricanes (Meena, Nancy, Olaf, and
> Percy) that threatened AS in February, 2005, and provided
> meteorological support to the public and local government officials
> during a catastrophic off-island communications failure.

-   **What specific actions did the nominees take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> The communication between NWS personnel at WSO Pago Pago and their
> counterparts in the Independent State of Samoa during each of the
> storm threats, resulted in closely coordinated information provided to
> government officials and the public in both Samoas resulted in an
> improved public confidence in their respective operational
> capabilities, consistent with the Department's mission. Although the
> worst impact was to the eastern islands of AS by Hurricane Olaf, each
> storm at one time or another threatened both Samoas. The nominees
> close coordination with local telephone officials, and utilizing a
> single satellite telephone during the during the unprecedented total
> outside communications outage, resulted in the office being able to
> provide weather services to local public officials, who were unable to
> receive the backup office's (WFO Honolulu) products.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms[?]{.underline}**

> Words of praise were received from public officials and the media in
> AS and Samoa to the services provided by WSO Pago Pago and the Samoa
> Meteorological Service, noting the consistent, accurate, and
> coordinated weather support they received.

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all six questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.)

-   How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?

> The office prepared in advance of the 2004-2005 Hurricane season,
> which included reviewing tropical cyclone procedures with the ISS
> visited every school in AS. PRH coordinated conference calls with both
> Samoa meteorological offices, WFO Honolulu, and the JTWC. WSO Pago
> Pago's prompt notification by satellite telephone allowed PRH to
> notify the NWSTG/NCEP, and NWSH of the Pacific wide impact of the
> January 2005 catastrophic communications outage, and emergency backup
> worked effectively to insure critical meteorological data was
> disseminated

-   What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?

> Providing critical weather support with only modest resources (no
> weather radar available and with limited local communications) has
> been crucial for helping the AS population, whose first language is
> Samoan, to better understanding natural hazards, such as hurricanes
> and tsunamis, which is crucial to enhancing human health, safety and
> welfare, alleviating human suffering, protecting the global
> environment, and achieving sustainable development.

-   What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?

> The Group's performance directly contributes to NOAA's reputation by
> the AS government officials as one of the leading US Government
> agencies they can rely on, and which contributes directly to the
> safety and well-being of the population within the territory.

-   Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?

> WSO Pago Pago must work closely with all territorial and federal
> agencies, NGOs, and the local media. The office also works closely
> with the agencies serving the large expatriate community within the
> other US states, as this community acutely focus their attentions on
> AS when it is threatened by hurricanes. The office is required to
> actively participates in regional intergovernmental South Pacific
> climate and marine-related programs and activities.

-   Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?

> The group's performance has resulted in a high degree of trust from
> top AS officials, which resulted in the NWS PRH receiving a portion of
> the AS's Homeland Security funds to establish a NWR program.

-   Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?

> The group's performance has enhanced the credibility of the
> meteorological services of both Samoas.

**Sam Albanese Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 51**

**1. Type of Award:** Silver

**2. Nomination Type:** Group

**3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service

**4. Name of Nominees:** Sam Albanese

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** ALL bun ees

**Title**: Warning Coordination Meteorologist

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-14

**Complete Office Address:** National Weather Service

Anchorage Weather Forecast Office

6930 Sand Lake Road

Anchorage, AK. 99502-1845

**Name of Nominee:** Aimee M. Devaris

**Salutation:** Ms.

**Pronunciation:** dee VARE is

**Title**: Performance Branch Chief

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-14

**Complete Office Address:** National Weather Service Headquarters

> Route W/OS52

1325 East West Highway

Silver Spring, MD. 20910-3283

**Name of Nominee:** Christopher T. Maier

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** MAY or

**Title**: Warning Coordination Meteorologist

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-13

**Complete Office Address:** National Weather Service

Juneau Weather Forecast Office

8500 Mendenhall Loop Road\
Juneau, AK 99801

**Name of Nominee:** Mary Jocelyn Perry

**Salutation:** Ms.

**Pronunciation:** PARE ee

**Title**: Electronics Technician

**Series and Grade:** GS-0856-11

**Complete Office Address:** National Weather Service

Anchorage Electronics Unit

6930 Sand Lake Road

Anchorage, AK. 99502-1845

**Name of Nominee:** James J. Prange

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** prang

**Title**: Meteorologist

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-12

**Complete Office Address:** National Weather Service

Seattle Weather Forecast Office

**Name of Nominee:** Michael A. Richmond

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** RICH mund

**Title**: Senior Meteorologist

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-13

**Complete Office Address:** National Weather Service

Weather Forecast Office

P. O. Box 757345

Fairbanks, AK. 99775-7345

**Name of Nominee:** Craig S. Searcy

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** SUR see

**Title**: Information Technology Officer

**Series and Grade:** GS-2210-13

**Complete Office Address:** National Weather Service

Anchorage Weather Forecast Office

6930 Sand Lake Road

Anchorage, AK. 99502-1845

**Name of Nominee:** Larry Van Bussum

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** van BUS um

**Title**: National Fire Weather Operations Coordinator

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-13

**Complete Office Address:** National Interagency Fire Center

3833 S. Development Avenue

Building 3807

Boise, ID. 83705-5354

**Name of Nominee:** David C. White

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** white

**Title**: Electronics Technician

**Series and Grade:** GS-0586-11

**Complete Office Address:** National Weather Service

Anchorage Electronics Unit

6930 Sand Lake Road

Anchorage, AK. 99502-1845

**Name of Nominee:** Edward Zingone

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** zin GO nee

**Title**: Senior Meteorologist

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-13

**Complete Office Address:** National Weather Service

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:**

**Devaris --** no previous DOC medals/NOAA Administrator Awards

**Perry -** no previous DOC medals/NOAA Administrator Awards

**White -** no previous DOC medals/NOAA Administrator Awards

**Maier -** no previous DOC medals/NOAA Administrator Awards

**Albanese --** NOAA Administrator Award (1994)

**Van Bussum --** DOC Bronze Medal (IMET Group Award - 2003)

**Prange -** no previous DOC medals/NOAA Administrator Awards

**Richmond -** no previous DOC medals/NOAA Administrator Awards

**Searcy -** no previous DOC medals/NOAA Administrator Awards

**Zingone -** no previous DOC medals/NOAA Administrator Awards

**\
6. Current Performance Rating:** Pass for all

**7. Nominator's Name, Title, complete office address, and telephone
number:**

Laura Furgione, Director

> NOAA/National Weather Service Alaska Region Headquarters\
> 222 West 7th Ave #23\
> Anchorage, AK 99513-7575
>
> Telephone: (907) 271-5136

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

Through the motivation, innovation, support and dedication of these
individuals, the NWS provided invaluable support to emergency responders
and other federal agencies during the Selendang Ayu cargo ship disaster
recovery effort.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}** (max. 150 characters)

For outstanding customer service, rapid response, and dedication to the
recovery mission of the grounded Selendang Ayu cargo ship.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}** (max. 600 characters)

The group is honored for their dedication, customer service and
technical support to emergency responders after the catastrophic
grounding and oil spill of the 738-foot Selendang Ayu. The team's
efforts led to more efficient and economical recovery operations
following this disaster, helping to minimize damage to the fragile
ecosystem. Their dedication to providing emergency responders with
timely and accurate weather information created a safer operating
environment during some of the world's most dangerous recovery
operations, demonstrating their commitment to safety, and the protection
of life, property and the environment.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 -- Definitions:]{.underline}**

Handar meteorological sensor system

IMET Incident Meteorologist (a specially trained meteorologist who
provides site- specific weather forecasts and information to an incident
or event).

NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NWS National Weather Service

WFO Weather Forecast Office

**[Section 2 -- Award Justification:]{.underline}** (max. 2000
characters for all 4 questions)

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission or Strategic Plan? *DOC Goal 3 Observe, protect,
and manage the Earth's resources to promote environmental
stewardship.*** The group's efforts enhanced the recovery operations of
a 738-foot grounded cargo ship with subsequent oil spill. More than
330,000 gallons of fuel spilled from the severed vessel, causing the
worst Alaskan oil spill since the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster. The spill
occurred off the Aleutian Islands, within the sprawling Alaskan Maritime
National Wildlife Refuge, an area important for commercial fishing,
seabirds and wildlife. The team's dedication promoted safe recovery
efforts, led to more efficient and economical execution of necessary
casualty operations and minimizing damage to the fragile ecosystem.

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?** The group quickly planned and implemented a
    strategy for providing remote weather observations and on-site
    forecast and briefing services during the critical initial phase of
    the response.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?** The cargo ship Selendang Ayu grounded on
    December 8, 2004. The NWS immediately began planning, coordinating
    and establishing communications between Anchorage and the remote
    site, nearly 900 miles southwest of Anchorage. The first
    site-specific forecast was issued on December 9 and by December 11,
    the team had deployed the first of seven separate IMET dispatches to
    Dutch Harbor. The IMET team continued on-site support for the
    clean-up and salvage operations until April 15, 2005. On December
    12, electronic technicians deployed to install a Handar remote
    weather sensing station at the site of the grounded freighter.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?** The NWS team's initial response to the
    Selendang Ayu disaster allowed emergency responders and federal
    partners to effectively plan and safely conduct salvage and
    lightering operations and cleanup activities in the Bering Sea.
    Since these operations were totally weather dependent, having
    accurate and timely weather information and on-site meteorologists
    facilitated operational planning and decision making. The team's
    prompt and effective initial response facilitated safer, more
    efficient and economical recovery operations.

**[Section 3 -- Additional Information:]{.underline}** (max. 2000
characters for all 6 questions)

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?** The group conducted
    a four month effort including seven separate IMET dispatches between
    December 11, 2004 and April 15, 2005.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?** The team seized a prime
    opportunity to exercise emergency procedures during a remote
    disaster recovery, providing essential support to other emergency
    responders. By quickly addressing the need for on-site forecast and
    briefing services, the team demonstrated their commitment to
    protecting life, property and the environment.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?** The team's accomplishments
    fostered a cooperative spirit with other emergency personnel, laying
    the foundation for possible expansion of the IMET mission to support
    NOAA customers during environmental disasters. The group continues
    to foster close partnerships with other agencies, enhancing disaster
    preparedness, response and education.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Departments or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?** The services of the group positively
    affected a wide range of agencies, including the NOAA Office of
    Response and Recovery. The United States Coast Guard (USCG) sent a
    letter of appreciation stating, "Safety is our number one issue for
    this response," detailing how this NWS team provided accurate and
    timely weather data for response personnel. During the ship's
    evacuation, six of its 26 crew members were killed when a USCG
    rescue helicopter crashed.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?** The group demonstrated that
    the use of technology to share information can save lives and
    resources. One member created a high-resolution digital forecast
    grid of the recovery area, lauded by the many participating response
    agencies.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas, such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?** The group's accomplishments have resulted in
    strong positive public relations for NOAA and the NWS. Emergency
    responders, including personnel from private industry and agency
    field offices, have praised the rapid response, on-site presence and
    dedication of the NWS team. One wrote that in forty years of marine
    casualty experience, he has never had meteorologists on-site
    providing support that "enhanced our planning and allowed us to
    execute the operation more efficiently and economically."

**WFO Jackson, MS**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 52**

**1. Type of Award:** Silver

**2. Nomination Type:** Organization

**3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service

**4. Name of Nominee:** NOAA/NWS Weather Forecast Office, Jackson, MS

Complete Office Address:

National Weather Service

234 Weather Service Drive

Jackson, MS 39232

Accepting the Award: Alan Gerard Pronunciation: jer-ARD

Meteorologist In Charge

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:**

DOC Silver Medal -- 2003

DOC Bronze Medal -- 2002

DOC Bronze Medal -- 1999

NOAA Unit Citation -- 1996

**6. Current Performance Rating: N/A**

**7. Nominator's Name, Title, Address, Phone Number:**

X. William Proenza

Director, National Weather Service Southern Region

819 Taylor Street, Room 10A03

Fort Worth, TX 76102

\(817\) 978-1000

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

WFO Jackson, MS provided outstanding weather services to Mississippi
which greatly mitigated the loss of life and property from Hurricane
Katrina, the worst natural disaster in U.S. history.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

For service and support to the state of Mississippi that saved lives and
property during catastrophic Hurricane Katrina.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

On August 29 2005, the worst natural disaster in U.S. history, Hurricane
Katrina, caused catastrophic damage to the Gulf Coast region. WFO
Jackson, MS, provided continuous weather service and support to the
state of Mississippi, working closely with state and local emergency
management and government officials, the media, and the public, to
prepare the state for the impact of an unprecedented storm. While
incredible damage occurred in coastal Mississippi and inland for nearly
100 miles, the loss of life and property would have been much worse
without the efforts of the NWS in this region.

**[III. Justification]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

EOC -- Emergency Operations Center

EM -- emergency manager/management

MPB -- Mississippi Public Broadcasting. MPB is a network of public radio
stations covering the entire state of Mississippi.

WFO -- Weather Forecast Office

NWS -- National Weather Service

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}**

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department=s mission/or Strategic Plan?**

The provision of the critical warnings, forecasts, and advisories are
directly related to the Department's Strategic Goal 3, Objective 3.1, to
"advance understanding and predict changes in the Earth's environment to
meet America's economic, social, and environmental needs."

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

Before, during and after the storm, staff members consistently placed
the NWS mission above their own concerns, concerns including evacuated
family in their homes and power outages lasting days. The WFO also had
to deal with major communications challenges during Katrina, as most
outgoing communications were lost. Using instant messaging and a lone
cell phone connection, the WFO was still able to work with its backup
office in Huntsville to get critical information, including tornado
warnings, out to the public.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

As the NWS state liaison office for Mississippi, WFO Jackson worked
closely with the state government, stationing a senior staff member at
the state EOC nearly continuously. This staff member briefed senior
officials, including the Governor and EM director, on the expected
impacts from Katrina. At the local level, the WFO held conference calls
four times a day with county, city, tribal, and medical facility
officials to keep them apprised on Katrina, with over 250 entities
involved over a 3 day period. The WFO gave over 60 media interviews
during this same time, including hourly interviews with MPB, who acts as
the official statewide source of hurricane information. Statements
issued by the WFO discussed "catastrophic damage well inland" and "power
outages lasting several days to a few weeks."

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms[?]{.underline}**

As an example of the impact their efforts had, the city of Madison, MS
praised the WFO in a publication to their citizens, stating the WFO's
information was "right on," and that the city's participation in the
conference calls had them ready for the hurricane.

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all six questions in this section cannot exceed 1900.)

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

During the actual Katrina event, the staff spent about four days
forecasting and preparing for Katrina, with the hurricane itself
impacting the area for another 24 hours. In the aftermath, the WFO had
to deal with communications and facilities issues, as well as
undertaking damage surveys, for about two weeks after Katrina's
landfall.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

Improved understanding and response to NWS warnings and advisories will
result in increased protection of life and property.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

The credibility of and respect for NWS services will be enhanced in the
coming years advancing the Department's Strategic Goal 3.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

The extensive services given to the state and county emergency
management community enabled them to work more effectively with DHS and
FEMA in allocating and positioning resources before, during, and after
Katrina.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?**

Critical weather information from the WFO has achieved a level of
credibility and accuracy which will enable partners and the general
public to have a high level of trust in this information in coming
years.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

WFO Jackson's effort to enhance hurricane services is an ongoing
process. After Hurricane Ivan last year, extensive changes were made to
the office's hurricane operations plan to maximize services to
state/local officials and the media. This included having a designated
hurricane coordinator on duty 24 hours a day to provide media and
governmental briefings as well as ensure a consistent message emanating
from the office. Detailed staffing plans were created to ensure adequate
staffing before, during, and after a hurricane.

**WFO Milwaukee/Sullivan, Wisconsin**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 53**

**1. Type of Award:** Silver

**2. Nomination Type:** Organization

**3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service

**4. Name of Organization being nominated:** WFO Milwaukee/Sullivan,
Wisconsin

**Individual to receive award for Organization:** Kenneth R. Rizzo,
Meteorologist-In-Charge

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** Riz zo

**Complete office address:** National Weather Service Office, NOAA

N3533 Hardscrabble Rd.

Dousman, WI 53118

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:**

1998 - Unit Citation, June 18-28, 1998 Severe Weather

1993 - Unit Citation, Great Flood of 1993

**6. Current Performance Rating:** Pass for all**.**

**7. Nominator=s Name, Title, complete office address, and phone
number:**

Gary Foltz, Acting Director

NWS Central Region

7220 NW 101^st^ Terrace Kansas City, Missouri 64153

Telephone: (816) 891-8914

Email: Gary.Foltz@noaa.gov

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

Only one fatality and few injuries sustained with southern Wisconsin's
largest recorded tornado outbreak, including a major F3 tornado.
Warnings and proper response kept the toll incredibly small.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

For life-saving warning services provided by WFO Milwaukee/Sullivan
prior to and during the August 18, 2005, Stoughton, Wisconsin tornado
outbreak.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

WFO Milwaukee provided exceptional life-saving warning services prior to
and during Wisconsin's largest single outbreak of tornadoes in a 24-hour
period. The 27 tornadoes surpassed the previous record of 24 in 1988.
The major F3 tornado that struck Stoughton WI was preceded by two
tornado warnings resulting in lead times of 54 and 9 minutes. Average
lead time for all tornadoes was 17 minutes; national GPRA goal was 13
minutes.

The combination of timely warning services, trained spotters, effective
emergency management and media partners resulted in only one fatality
and few (23) injuries.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

**County Warning Area** Area (comprised of counties) that the WFO has
warning responsibility.

**False Alarm Rate** Ratio of warned areas (counties) unverified to the
total number of warned areas (counties). The lower the ratio the better.

**F3** A tornado strength rating. An F3 tornado has winds in the 158-206
mph range.

**MKX** The three letter designator for WFO Milwaukee/Sullivan,
Wisconsin.

**Probability of Detection** The ratio of number of warned events to the
total number of events. The higher the ratio the better.

**HWO** Hazardous Weather Outlook is a routine product which describes
the potential for hazardous weather.

**WFO Severe Weather Plan** Annually reviewed and updated document which
details the entire severe weather operations at a WFO.

**WFO** Weather Forecast Office

**GPRA** Government Performance and Results Act

**NWS** National Weather Service

**DOC** Department of commerce

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}**

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department=s mission/or Strategic Plan?**

A single fatality and a small number (23) of injuries during a major
tornado outbreak meets DOC's Strategic Plan, Mission Goal to Serve
Society's Needs for Weather and Water Information with the desired
outcome to *reduced loss of life, injury, and damage to the economy*
through the performance objective *increased lead time and accuracy for
weather and water warnings and forecasts.*

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

Success of the warning system on August 18, 2005 was the result of the
WFO preparing themselves, spotters, emergency management, media, and the
public, resulting in the successful response during the stressful hours
of this major tornado event.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

Twenty-one Tornado Warnings were issued during a 6-hour siege in
addition to numerous outlooks, statements, and forecasts issued prior
to, and during, the event. Staff training, commitment to the WFO Severe
Weather plan, preparedness work with spotters, emergency management, and
media occurring years and months prior to this event set the stage for
success.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

The Stoughton Tornado was 17 miles long and 1/3 mi wide with 1 fatality
and 23 injuries. Total estimated property damage was 35 million dollars.
The F3 Stoughton tornado was preceded by 2 tornado warnings which
resulted in lead times of 54 and 9 minutes for this tornado spin-up.

Average lead warning time for all 16 tornadoes in WFO MKX's warning area
was 17 minutes (2005 GPRA Goal = 13 minutes). False alarm rate of 43
percent for the 21 tornado warnings is well below (better than) the
national GPRA goal of 76 percent; the probability of detection of 95
percent is well above the national GPRA goal of 79 percent.

The HWO, issued with a 10-hour lead-time mentioned "*isolated tornadoes
and severe thunderstorms"* as the main threat during the afternoon and
early evening hours.

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}**

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

Issuance of the 21 tornado warnings spanned a 6-hour period. Advance
notice of the severe weather potential spanned a 3-day period. Staff
training, preparedness activities, spotter training, media and public
education have been a year-round effort since the early 1990s.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

The success validates DOC's Strategic Goal to Serve Society's Needs for
Weather and Water Information with the desired outcome of *reduced loss
of life, injury, and damage to the economy.* It will demonstrate DOC's
commitment to this goal; build more commitment and cooperation among
partners/customers to maintain readiness in years to come.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

This success builds upon a strong commitment to several performance
objectives under DOC's Weather and Water mission goal through 1)
increase development, application, and transition of advance science and
technologies to operations and services, and 2) improved predictability
of the onset, duration, and impact of hazardous and severe weather and
water events.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

This success fosters partnerships with the Federal Emergency Management
Agency and many state/local government agencies.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?**

The tornado outbreak has already been the subject of case studies. See
institute case study pages at <http://www.ersc.wisc.edu/tornadoes.php>
and <http://cimss.ssec.wisc.edu/casestudies/2005-08-18_dane/> .

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

Customer, national and local media response was overwhelmingly positive.
Sample comments follow:

ABC World News Tonight, dated August 19, 2005

*"Although it was amazing, the low death total was no accident"..."The
steady drumbeat of warnings on radio and TV throughout the afternoon
alerted people that they were in danger."*

The Capitol Times (Madison, WI, daily newspaper) quoting the Dane County
Sheriff saying *"Hard to believe there weren't more deaths"..."after a
day of extensive warnings, many people had evacuated the area or taken
safety precautions."*

Milwaukee WITI-TV6 Broadcast Meteorologist, Bart Adrian, *"WFO MKX made
an extraordinary response to an extraordinary weather situation".*

**WFO Phoenix, AZ**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 54**

**1. Type of Award:** Silver

**2. Nomination Type:** Organization

**3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service

**4. Name of Acceptor:** Anton Haffer

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** HAFF er

**Title**: Meteorologist-In-Charge

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-15

**Name of Nominee:** National Weather Service, NOAA, WFO Phoenix

**Complete office address:** National Weather Service, NOAA

WFO Phoenix

1521 N Project Drive, PAB 500

Tempe, AZ 85281-1206

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:** DoC - Bronze Medal October
2002

DoC - Silver Medal November 2001

**6. Current Performance Rating:** Meets or Exceeds for all
employees**.**

**7. Nominator=s Name, Title, complete office address, and phone
number:**

Vickie Nadolski, Regional Director

NWS Western Region Headquarters

125 S. State Street, Room 1205

Salt Lake City, UT

801-524-5122

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

The staff of the Phoenix WFO greatly facilitated life-saving response
efforts of local health and emergency services agencies by providing
advance information on excessively hot record temperatures.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

For life-saving Excessive Heat Warning services provided to Phoenix,
Arizona, during the extreme heat episode of June 29 through July 21,
2005. 

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

The National Weather Service Forecast Office in Phoenix is honored for
live-saving Excessive Heat Warning services provided to Phoenix, Arizona
during the extreme heat episode of June 29 through July 21, 2005. 
Responding to their warnings and daily forecasts, community leaders
activated emergency response plans, opened shelters, and rescued people
who were most vulnerable to the excessive heat.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

**WFO**: Weather Forecast Office, National Weather Service's field
office responsible for weather and hydrological forecasts and warnings
to protect property, people and economy of the nation.

**Excessive Heat**: Excessive heat results from a combination of high
temperature (significantly above normal ranges) and high humidity. At
this high level of combined factors, the human body cannot maintain
proper internal temperatures and may experience heat related illness,
including death.

**EPA**: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}**

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department=s mission/or Strategic Plan?**

Strategic Goal 3: Observe, protect, and manage the Earth's resources to
promote environmental stewardship

The problem was to create enhanced, specific, science-based procedures
to identify weather conditions that pose the greatest threat to life and
to convey the threat to local agencies with as much lead time as
possible. The challenge was exacerbated by Phoenix's hot summers. The
standard NWS heat program is not appropriate in this area.

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

The deadly heat wave began with a significant leap of daily
temperatures. The WFO staff foresaw the uncharacteristic increase as a
threat to life. Agencies providing shelter and life-sustaining medical
and food services required credible information to prepare for and
respond to the heat disaster. Succinct statements and warnings from the
WFO conveyed the imminent threat to life.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

For more than five years, the WFO nurtured a partnership with the
University of Delaware to implement an enhanced Phoenix-centric warning
program to alert local residents of conditions that pose the greatest
threat to life. Ten days before the peak of the heat wave, the WFO
accomplished an aggressive campaign with the media and local agencies to
disseminate information to raise public awareness and educate the people
as to what protective actions needed to be taken to survive the heat. 

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

Local and national media highlighted the heat wave, which resulted in 54
heat-related deaths (normal is 32 per year). Health and emergency
service agencies distributed NWS products via their internal networks
and issued guidelines on preventing health risks due to high
heat. Cooling centers were opened, and additional street patrols were
implemented to transport people at risk to cooling shelters.  Ms. Susan
Gerard, Director of the Arizona Department of Health Services, stated,
"Without the hard work and dedication of the Phoenix Forecast Office
staff, the number of deaths would have certainly been higher. I commend
their exceptional services and partnership in saving lives."

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}**

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

Research of the relationship between summer temperatures and
heath-related deaths in Phoenix began in 1999 by means of a partnership
among the University of Delaware, a local utility, and local and state
government agencies.  The WFO Excessive Heat Warning Program, tailored
to results of the research, began in 2001.  The Program was refined to
include additional weather parameters in succeeding summers including
2005.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

    The accomplishment demonstrated the value of continually customizing
    and updating the Phoenix Excessive Heat Warning Program.  As a
    result, refinements will continue in the short-term and the
    credibility of the program, in the minds of the Phoenix customers,
    will be significantly enhanced.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

The success of the Phoenix program demonstrates the importance of
tailoring NWS procedures to stimulate a local call to action which
reflects the conditions of the local area -- even in extreme climates. 
This supports the NOAA/NWS plan to implement similar programs across the
Nation during the next five years.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

Lessons learned from the Phoenix experience have already been integrated
into a forthcoming EPA publication that provides guidelines for dealing
with extreme heat events.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?**

The results of the partnerships nurtured in Phoenix serve as the
reference model regarding importance of addressing the impacts from
excessive heat events.  Recent data indicate heat-related deaths to be
the most significant cause of weather-related deaths.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

The Heat Wave of 2005 demonstrated that local agencies' response plans
and guidelines in Phoenix were out of date.  By stepping up to the plate
with its enhanced warning program, the WFO's aggressive actions served
as a role model for other agencies to follow. As a result, a major
effort is underway to rewrite the guidelines and improve the local
response plans used by state and local agencies serving Phoenix.

**WFO Miami, FL and WFO Key West, FL**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 55**

**1. Type of Award:** Silver

**2. Nomination Type:** Joint Organization

**3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service

**4. Names of Nominees:** NWS Weather Forecast Office, Miami, Florida

NWS Weather Forecast Office, Key West, Florida

**Complete office address:**

> Weather Forecast Office
>
> 11691 SW 17^th^ Street
>
> Miami, FL 33165
>
> Weather Forecast Office
>
> 1315 White St.
>
> Key West, FL 33040

Accepting the Award: Rusty Pfost Pronunciation: RUST --tee Post

Matt Strahan Pronunciation: STRAY-han

**5. Other National Weather Service Organizational Awards:**

[WFO Miami]{.underline}

DOC Gold Medal, Joint Organizational-Hurricane Season, 2004

DOC Bronze Medal, Organization-South Florida Tornado Outbreak, 2003

DOC Bronze Medal, Organization-Rip Current Program, 2001

NOAA Unit Citation, Hurricane Irene, 1999

DOC Gold Medal, Organization-Hurricane Andrew, 1992

[WFO Key West]{.underline}

DOC Gold Medal, Joint Organizational -- Hurricane Season 2004

**6. Current Performance Rating: NA**

**7. Nominator=s Name, Title, complete office address, and phone
number:**

X. William Proenza, Regional Director

NWS Southern Region

819 Taylor St. Rm 10E09

Fort Worth, TX 76102

Ph: 817 978 1000

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

WFO Miami's and Key West's customer service during multiple tropical
cyclone threats was critical to the people of South Florida and
sustained them through the record 2005 hurricane season.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

For public service to the people of South Florida through multiple
hurricane threats during the record 2005 hurricane season.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

WFO Miami and WFO Key West are recognized for providing critical public
service to the people of South Florida through multiple tropical cyclone
threats (Arlene in June, Dennis in July, Katrina in August, Rita in
September, and Wilma in October), including two direct strikes by
hurricanes Katrina and Wilma, during the record 2005 hurricane season.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

[Acronyms]{.underline}

COE Corps of Engineers

DOC Department of Commerce

FEB Federal Executive Board

NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NWS National Weather Service

SFWMD South Florida Water Management District

WFO Weather Forecast Office

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all four questions in this section cannot exceed 1900.)

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department=s mission/or Strategic Plan?**

The provision of the critical warnings are directly related to the
Department's Strategic Goal 3, Objective 3.1.

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

The county warning area includes the metropolitan areas of Miami-Fort
Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Fort Myers-Naples, with a population of
about 6 million people, including top cruise and cargo ports and three
large airports. WFO staffs performed their duties at substantial
personal risk and hardship, leaving family at home to arrive early
before events began or staying at work through events in order to ensure
proper staffing. The Key West WFO\'s interaction with the tourist
industry was a major reason there was no loss of life during Wilma. The
Florida Keys tourism industry hosts about four million visitors per
year. Loss of life was minimal during all four storms.  

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

WFO Miami provided traditional text as well as innovative graphical and
gridded products providing continuously updated and accurate weather
information. WFO Miami also provided critical direct weather support to
county and state emergency managers, the COE and SFWMD, and the South
Florida FEB. The WFO Key West staff briefed Emergency Management, the
media and tourism officials, handling up to 200 phone calls per day. 
Once evacuation of tourists was ordered, the WFO staff provided direct
weather support to the transportation entities, ensuring safe passage of
evacuees.  This close support was critical, as evacuees had to cross 42
bridges to drive out, and flying became increasingly dangerous as the
hurricane approached.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms[?]{.underline}**

Loss of live was minimal in spite of the fact that sustained hurricane
force winds were experienced in Broward County for the first time since
1950. During hurricane Wilma, the storm surge was as high as 10 feet
across 90 percent of the Keys.  This surge flooded thousands of homes,
and destroyed tens of thousands of vehicles, yet no lives were lost.

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all six questions in this section cannot exceed 1900.)

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

The tropical cyclone events occurred over five months from June through
October 2005. One tropical cyclone threat occurred each month.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

The two WFOs customer service fulfilled the NWS mission to provide
weather and hydrologic forecasts and warnings for the people of South
Florida. Thanks to WFO's provision of services and information, the NWS
continues to be a trusted source of weather forecast and warning
information. This directly supports the stewardship part of the DOC
mission.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

Use of graphical and gridded ways to provide information on the expected
impact of tropical cyclone threats will continue. Emergency managers and
state officials praised the experimental Graphical Hurricane Local
Statement. Local conference calls in which NWS employees explained the
tropical cyclone threat to a group of cities or combined law enforcement
will continue.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

The WFOs directly supported the water management operations of the U.S.
Army COE and the SFWMD, especially concerning Lake Okeechobee and the
aging Hoover Dike. WFOs also directly supported local county emergency
managers through multiple daily conference calls and the South Florida
Federal Executive Board. The support for the COE and SFWMD was long term
through all five events from June through October.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?**

Innovative use of Internet technologies (graphics and grids) produced
new effective ways to communicate weather threats.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

The highly successful use of the Graphical Hurricane Local Statement
shows that approach to be effective and desirable for all WFOs affected
by tropical cyclones. WFO Miami's FEB support through graphics and grids
via the internet provided an example of effective weather support to the
federal community.

**WFO Lubbock, TX**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 56**

> **1. Type of Award:** Silver
>
> **2. Nomination Type:** Organization
>
> **3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service
>
> **4. Name of Nominee:** WFO Lubbock, Texas
>
> National Weather Service
>
> **Complete Office Address:**
>
> National Weather Service
>
> 2579 S Loop 289, Suite 100
>
> Lubbock, TX 79423
>
> Accepting the Award: Justin Weaver Pronunciation: JUST-in WEAVE-er
>
> Meteorologist In Charge
>
> **5. Other National Weather Service Awards:**
>
> Bronze Medal (Organization) November 2001
>
> **6. Current Performance Rating:** N/A
>
> **7. Nominator's Name, Title, complete office address and phone
> number:**
>
> X. William Proenza, Southern Region Director, National Weather Service
>
> 819 Taylor Street, Room 10A03
>
> Fort Worth, TX 76102
>
> 817-978-1000
>
> **[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**
>
> WFO Lubbock provided exceptionally effective public service during the
> extreme and sustained severe weather outbreak of May 12-13, 2005. No
> deaths or serious injuries occurred despite 9 tornadoes.
>
> **[I. Certificate Text]{.underline}**
>
> For life-saving warning and forecast services provided during the
> extreme West Texas severe weather outbreak of May 12-13 2005.
>
> **[II. Program Text]{.underline}**
>
> On May 12-13, 2005, the Texas South Plains experienced one of the most
> sustained severe weather events in local history. A total of nine
> tornadoes, including three strong tornadoes, and hail up to the size
> of softballs occurred, destroying one home and seriously damaging
> other homes and farm equipment. Through community preparedness,
> external partner relations and coordination, innovative communications
> and local expertise, WFO Lubbock provided exceptional warning and
> forecast services resulting in zero deaths and zero serious injuries
> during this extreme severe weather outbreak.
>
> **[III Justification:]{.underline}**
>
> **[Section 1 -- Definitions:]{.underline}**
>
> **Strong Tornado** -- A tornado with estimated wind speed between
> 113-206 mph resulting in considerable to severe damage. These types of
> wind speeds correlate with F2 and F3 ratings on the Fujita Scale of
> tornado damage.
>
> **WFO** -- Weather Forecast Office (National Weather Service).
>
> **GPRA** -- Government Performance and Results Act. Provides for the
> establishment of strategic planning and performance measurement in the
> Federal Government.
>
> **POD** -- Probability of Detection. A percentage depicting WFO skill
> in detecting an event (e.g.**,** tornado).
>
> **IM --** Instant Messaging. A highly versatile, Internet-based method
> of communicating with others in a virtual environment.
>
> DOC -- Department of Commerce
>
> **[Section 2 -- Award Justification:]{.underline}**

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department's mission/or Strategic Plan.**

> These contributions by WFO Lubbock relate to performance outcomes
> cited in General Goal/Objective 3.1 of Strategic Goal 3 of the DOC FY
> 2004-2009 Strategic Plan.

-   **What was the context in which the nominees addressed the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> On May 12-13, 2005, WFO Lubbock experienced one of the most sustained
> severe weather events in memory. During this 14 hour event, a total of
> 9 tornadoes, three of them strong tornadoes, and hail up to the size
> of softballs occurred, leveling one home and seriously damaging other
> homes and farm equipment.

-   **What specific actions did the nominees take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> WFO Lubbock anticipated this event during the morning hours of May 12
> and began a process of briefing emergency management officials and
> local media through innovative use of conference calling and Internet
> Instant Messaging (IM). During the 14 hour event, WFO Lubbock issued
> 100 warnings and 93 severe weather statements, equating to about one
> severe weather product every 4.5 minutes. An extraordinary amount of
> teamwork was involved to maintain situational awareness and properly
> assimilate both technical information and real-time reports during the
> event. This effort provided a seamless flow of accurate and
> life-saving information at a time when it was most critical.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

> The exemplary actions of WFO Lubbock in providing life-saving tornado
> warnings not only fostered and strengthened relationships with local
> partners of NWS services, but also directly exceeded two of the
> NOAA/NWS GPRA Performance Measures -- Tornado POD and Tornado Lead
> Time. The national NOAA/NWS GPRA goals for 2005 were 73% and 13
> minutes, respectively. WFO Lubbock performances on May 12-13 were 88%
> and 15 minutes (with a Max Lead Time of 34 minutes), respectively.
>
> **[Section 3 -- Additional Information]{.underline}**

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

> The accomplishments occurred over a period of 24 hours beginning with
> a severe weather prognosis by the operational midnight shift on May
> 12. After briefing a diverse set of customers and emergency
> responders, the first warnings were issued area shortly before Noon on
> May 12. Warnings operations ended at 3:06 AM on May 13.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

> The short-term impact of this historic event on the mission can best
> be described as a model of excellence and leadership achieved through
> enhanced collaboration and effective teamwork with partners.

-   **What is the long-term (3-5 years) impact of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

> The long-term impact evolves from a notable example of executing the
> mission, as WFO Lubbock was credited with saving lives while providing
> critical services. The quality of service from WFO Lubbock brought
> credit to the agency at all levels.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal Agencies? If so, how?**

> As a precedent in leadership, the pioneering efforts of the WFO
> Lubbock staff in delivering the mission will undoubtedly affect other
> Federal agencies when sharing and implementing best-practices in
> life-saving operations.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology or automation? If so, how?**

> The accomplishment resulted in the advancement of innovative
> technology to support the needs of our customers and partners -- IM
> and Conferencing. The event greatly enhanced the relationship between
> the WFO and emergency responders, and provided a dynamic mechanism to
> communicate live and continuous information.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service and administrative
    support? If so, how?**

> The accomplishment resulted in zero fatalities. Through IM with local
> media, a citizen received life-saving information from WFO Lubbock
> minutes before a tornado destroyed his home. The following represents
> one of many positive statements received: "*The Lubbock NWS was at the
> top of its game like never before...I could not have warned people as
> fast and as effective as I did without the help of the local
> office...*" --Bryan Hughes, Fox 34 News, Lubbock.

**WFO Huntsville, AL**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 57**

**1. Type of Award:** Silver

**2. Nomination Type:** Organization

**3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service

**4. Name of Nominee: NWS** WFO Huntsville AL

**Complete office address:** WFO Huntsville Alabama

320 Sparkman Drive

Huntsville, AL 35805

**Accepting the Award:** John Coyne Pronunciation: John Coin

Meteorologist in Charge

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:**

WSO Huntsville -- Unit Citation 1974

> WFO Huntsville -- Bronze Medal Nov 2004

**6. Current Performance Rating:** N/A for Organizational Nomination

**7. Nominator=s Name, Title, complete office address, and phone
number:**

X. William Proenza, Regional Director

NWS Southern Region

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

WFO Huntsville, AL provided warnings and forecasts for their own area,
in addition to serving in an emergency backup capacity for WFO Jackson,
MS during and following Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

**Place here (maximum of 150 characters).**

For providing life saving warnings and forecasts by providing backup
support for WFO Jackson during and following the landfall of Hurricane
Katrina.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

**Place here (maximum of 600 characters).**

During the morning hours of August 29^th^, Hurricane Katrina slammed
ashore in southeast LA causing destruction and loss of life. This
destruction was felt far inland along the central Gulf Coast. Katrina
also caused large-scale disruptions to power and communications centers.
One such outage rendered WFO Jackson inoperable, and resulted in WFO
Huntsville providing outstanding service not only to their own area of
responsibility but for the 58 counties in the Jackson County Warning
Area as well.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

NWS -- National Weather Service

WFO -- Weather Forecast Office

AWIPS -- Advance Weather Interactive Process System

HUN -- Huntsville

JAN -- Jackson

TN -- Tennessee

AL -- Alabama

MIC -- Meteorologist In Charge

SRH -- Southern Region Headquarters

NAWAS -- National Warning System

WES -- Weather Event Simulator

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all four questions in this section cannot exceed 1900.)

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department=s mission/or Strategic Plan?**

The provision of the critical warnings support the Department's
Strategic Goal 3, to "advance understanding and predict changes in the
Earth's environment to meet America's economic, social, and
environmental needs."

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

WFO Huntsville provided critical service backup during one of the
greatest natural disasters in modern US history. This included the
issuance of 197 products including 87 warnings/advisories during the
immediate impact of Katrina. The Huntsville office continued providing
backup support for the expanded area for the next 15 days, far beyond
what is normally expected for backup operations. This support was
provided in addition to HUN's own elevated level of operations for the
TN Valley including briefings and news conferences.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

This event posed unprecedented challenges as infrastructure failures
resulted in a lack of critical decision making data. To maintain a flow
of life-saving information, the staffs at both offices coordinated
through the use of cell phones and the MS NAWAS. The NAWAS also proved
vital in the relay of information to first responders. During the
summer, WFO Huntsville completed a scenario in which they simulated
backup services for WFO Jackson. The forecasters cited this training as
a key to success. Jackson MIC Alan Gerard also stated, "We wish to
deeply thank WFO Huntsville for taking the proactive steps to be
prepared with extra staffing in case service backup was needed, and for
the tremendous support and cooperation which they have provided us*.*"

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

If it were not for critical backup warnings and forecasts, the death
toll would have been higher. Alan Gerard stated that the transfer of
duties was "without degradation of service". In a note to the staff,
BGen. D. L. Johnson, Director of the NWS wrote, "The devastation and
loss of life would have been much more had your team commitment to duty
been less strong.\"

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all six questions in this section cannot exceed 1900.)

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

WFO Huntsville assumed forecast/warning responsibility for the Jackson
on August 19, and issued 197 products including 87 warnings and
advisories during Katrina. The WFO continued backup support for the next
15 days.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

The critical warnings and forecasts issued by WFO Huntsville saved lives
and demonstrated backup capabilities can be executed in an effective
manner (even in extreme conditions) with proper planning and training.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

Lessons learned during the extended backup operations will enable the
Agency to refine and improve its backup plans.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

This example of teamwork should be replicated in other agencies based on
their individual needs. The advance training and preparedness were keys
to effectively executing the backup plan and that certainly should be
shared with other agencies.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?**

Never has the foundation of the NWS Service Backup program been tested
as strongly as it was during Katrina. At the height of Katrina,
communications outages affected much of the Gulf Coast region. As the
full force of the storm bore down on the Mississippi, the forecasters at
WFO Huntsville provided a full suite of service backup products. Issuing
the products was only half the task. WFO Huntsville ensured these
critical services were received by customers that needed them most. In
the end, the process worked as intended with no degradation of service.
This event, though tragic, proved that the backup process can be a great
success.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

WFO Huntsville's decision making, product creation, and customer service
during backup services was an outstanding accomplishment. It also
illustrated that even during extraordinary events that with proper
training and preparedness the service backup system works.

**WFO Atlanta, GA**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 58**

**1. Type of Award:** Silver

**2. Nomination Type:** Organizational

**3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service

**4. Name of Nominee:** Atlanta Weather Forecast Office

National Weather Service

**Complete office address:** NWS Forecast Office

4 Falcon Drive

Peachtree City, GA 30269

Accepting the Award: Lans Rothfusz Pronunciation: Lance ROTE-foos

Meteorologist In Charge

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:** DOC Gold Medal 2005

**6. Current Performance Rating:** Not Applicable

**7. Nominator=s Name, Title, complete office address, and phone
number:**

X. William Proenza, Regional Director

NWS Southern Region

819 Taylor St. Rm 10E09

Fort Worth, TX 76102

Ph: 817 978 1000

**What is the significance of this accomplishment?**

Despite failure of its radar the Atlanta WFO creatively adapted
operations to limit loss of life and achieve excellent public response
to its warnings during a tornado outbreak in August 2005.

**I.  [[Certificate
Text:]{.underline}](http://www.rdc.noaa.gov/~hrmo/medaltextlimitations.htm) 
maximum of 150 characters**

For providing life saving services during the record-setting tornado
outbreak of August 29, 2005 despite difficult operational circumstances.

**II.  [[Program Booklet
Text:]{.underline}](http://www.rdc.noaa.gov/~hrmo/medaltextlimitations.htm#Program Text) 
maximum of 600 characters; not required for Bronze nominations**

As Hurricane Katrina came ashore on August 29, 2005, North Georgia
experienced a record-setting tornado outbreak. WFO Atlanta faced this
event with its best-positioned radar out of service due to mechanical
failure. Despite this disadvantage, the WFO staff took innovative steps
to mitigate the situation. Web-based briefings were delivered for the
first time, supplementary tornado detection techniques were brought to
the fore, and unprecedented radar troubleshooting steps were employed.
Emergency managers praised the WFO for its creative efforts to minimize
the loss of life.

**III.  Justification**

**Section 1 - Definitions**

DOC = Department of Commerce

DOC Goal 3 = Department's Strategic Goal 3, Objective 3.1, to "advance
understanding and predict changes in the Earth's environment to meet
America's economic, social, and environmental needs."

CWA = County Warning Area, the area of responsibility for a specific NWS
office.

MIC = Meteorologist in Charge

NWS = National Weather Service

WFO = Weather Forecast Office

WSR-88D = Weather Surveillance Radar 1998-Doppler

**Section 2 - Award Justification** (Maximum number of characters for
all four questions in this section cannot exceed 1900.)

**• What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

Provision of life saving warnings supports DOC Goal 3

**• What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

Effects of Hurricane Katrina spawned a record number of tornadoes (16)
for the Atlanta CWA. Tropical-induced tornadoes pose the greatest
warning challenges and the office's best-positioned radar failed just
prior to the event.

**• What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

Replacement parts arrived at noon**,** and electronics technicians
carried the 125 pounds of equipment 100 up into the radar dome in
wind-driven rain. After installation, the new replacement parts failed
just as the tornado outbreak began. Knowing the seriousness of the
situation, the technicians broke precedent and disassembled the
component to try and resolve the problem. After several hours of intense
troubleshooting, no solution was found. The primary radar remained
unavailable despite heroic efforts. WFO meteorologists employed every
possible tornado detection tool and technique to offset the loss of the
primary radar including amateur radio spotters, satellite imagery,
surrounding radars (despite their less-than-optimum distance for
detecting low-level tornadoes), media "instant messaging," and phone
calls to/from Emergency Managers. The MIC, knowing the country's
attention was focused on the Gulf Coast, took steps to refocus local
attention on the tornado potential. A web-based conferencing service was
quickly configured and emergency managers were invited to join. By 11
a.m., over 30 participants joined the first-ever web briefing and were
apprized of the situation. Briefings were conducted every six hours
throughout the outbreak.

**• What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

Despite the challenges, the staff achieved an average warning lead time
of 10.2 minutes which is superb for tropical-induced tornadoes. Loss of
life would have been higher if not for the performance of the
"disadvantaged" WFO staff. For example, a hotel manager received a
warning and evacuated his hotel before a tornado removed the second
floor.

**Section 3 - Additional Information** (Maximum number of characters for
all six questions in this section cannot exceed 1900.)

**• How long did it take to complete the accomplishment?  When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

The actions took place during a 24 hour period on August 29, 2005

**• What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission? **

New procedures of conducting briefings with emergency management
officials to focus attention on major weather threats will be continued
and improve response to warnings..

**• What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

Increased credibility of NWS warnings will lead to improved customer
response in taking life saving actions based on those warnings

**• Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies?  If so, how?**

Yes. Improved communication and coordination between the NWS and various
first responder agencies and emergency management officials results in
improved life saving activities by all concerned.

**• Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation?  If so, how?**

Because of the success of the web-briefing technique, it has become a
standard service to use this technology to brief emergency managers
prior to the onset of a significant weather episode.

**• Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
support?  If so, how?**

Yes. Use of the technology garnered praise such as the following message
sent by one emergency manager to his peers: "In my opinion the National
Weather Service nailed this one and delivered a record number of
warnings to us emergency managers in a timely manner. (despite radar
problems)...".

**Vicente Carreras Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 59**

1\. **Type of Award:** Silver

**2. Nomination Type:** Group

**3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service

**4. Name of Nominee: Houston (ZHU) Center Weather Service Unit, NWS**

**ZHU Staff:**

**Name: Vicente Carreras**

**Title: Meteorologist-In-Charge**

**Series and Grade: GS-1340-13**

**Name: Leslie E. Petersen**

**Title: Meteorologist**

**Series and Grade: GS-1340-12**

**Name: Matthew Bishop**

**Title: Meteorologist**

**Series and Grade: GS-1340-12**

**Name: James Scott Jackson**

**Title: Meteorologist**

**Series and Grade: GS-1340-12**

**Complete office address:** National Weather Service Office, NOAA

C/O FAA Houston ARTCC

16600 John F. Kennedy Blvd.

Houston, Texas 77032

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:** None

**6. Current Performance Rating:** Pass for all**.**

**7. Nominator:**

X. William Proenza, Regional Director

NWS Southern Region

819 Taylor Street, Room 10A03

Ft. Worth, Texas 76102

Telephone: 817-978-1000

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

The group provided critical information to the FAA and airline personnel
during two major hurricane events and then provided forecasts to help in
the recovery effort for military and FEMA aircraft.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

For providing critical weather information to the Houston Air Route
Traffic Control Center during two devastating hurricanes during 2005.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

The group is honored for providing weather forecasts and warnings to the
FAA and airlines before, during and after two major hurricanes impacted
CWSU's airspace. The group, notified FAA supervisory staff of the
potential these hurricanes had in impacting jet routes, oil rig
operations and the possibilities of destruction to government facilities
and equipment. This included the safety of personnel who were working to
protect facilities and equipment as these hurricanes approached.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

CWSU - Center Weather Service Unit

ZHU -- Houston Air Route Traffic Control Center

FEMA -- Federal Emergency Management Agency

FAA -- Federal Aviation Administration

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}**

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Departments mission/or Strategic Plan?**

> The provision of the critical warnings, forecasts, and advisories are
> directly related to the Department's Strategic Goal 3, "Support the
> nation's commerce with information for safe, efficient, and
> environmentally sound transportation."

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

> CWSUs are staffed with three meteorologists plus a meteorologist in
> charge. Normal operations run from 5am until 9pm. During the two
> emergencies, the Unit began 24 hour operations giving continuous
> weather briefings and forecasts to the FAA Air Traffic and Airway
> Facilities. Special briefings were given directly to major airlines
> which took measures for the protection of their terminals and
> aircraft. All this was done during a period of short staffing at the
> CWSU. During Katrina, one employee was on annual leave in Mexico.
> During Rita, another employee was on annual leave in Europe. Personnel
> stayed working long hours and keeping to maintain 24/7 operations.
> Initially, Rita was forecast into or just west of the Houston
> metropolitan area. Personnel had to deal with the protection of their
> own homes and the safety of their families. This was done when over 3
> million people were evacuating the Houston/Galveston area. To add to
> personnel problems, the FAA stated specifically that no employee's
> family would be allowed to take shelter within the facility. One CWSU
> employee family evacuation to Oklahoma took over 20 hours on a trip
> that normally takes 6 hours while the employee remained on duty.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

> Houston CWSU personnel were on duty constantly supporting the National
> Weather Service Mission. Several daily national and regional FAA
> teleconferences were given keeping personnel advised on the latest
> advisories and forecast tracks of each storm.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms[?]{.underline}**

Weather forecasts and briefings to the FAA Traffic Management during the
recovery effort made for safe and efficient aircraft operations in and
out of the affected area.

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}**

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

> Weather support special efforts lasted up to six weeks. Direct weather
> support was also given to Louis Armstrong International Airport in New
> Orleans.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

> Procedures put into place during the event will be used to assist in
> air traffic management during the extensive recovery period.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

> Long term impact will be accomplished in developing playbooks on how
> to deal with air traffic if or when another major hurricane hits a
> large hub airport which could greatly affect the National Airspace
> System. In the event this does happen, the military and other
> emergency departments will be able to take action immediately to use
> the airports.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

> Yes. Direct support to the Federal Aviation Administration for the
> safe and efficient flow of air traffic not only along the gulf coast
> but nationwide has shown the importance of why weather support is
> necessary.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?**

> Backup procedures to airports and frequencies for aircraft in the air
> are being improved so that communications will not be lost at anytime.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

> Working directly with the FAA has bonded the Houston Center Weather
> Service Unit tighter making an excellent example of how to make the
> airspace system safe and efficient. Airline dispatchers were extremely
> happy with the Houston CWSU meteorologists stating that the advance
> notice given to them helped them make critical decisions on planning
> the movement of aircraft away from Houston Intercontinental Airport.
> The Houston Air Traffic Manager, Mr. Jim D'Ambrosio and Mr. David
> Frame, Traffic Management Officer, both stated their appreciation for
> the support given by the Houston Center Weather Service Unit
> meteorologists.

**Matthew Davis Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 60**

**1. Type of Award:** Silver

**2. Nomination Type:** Group

**3. Nomination Category:** Scientific/Engineering Achievement

**4. Name of Nominee:** Matthew Davis

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** DA vis

**Title:** Information Technology Officer

**Series and Grade:** GS-2210-13

**Name of Nominee:** Pete Browning

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** BROW ning

**Title**: Chief, Meteorological Sciences Division

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-15

**Complete office address:** NOAA/NWS Central Region Headquarters

Meteorological Sciences Division

7220 NW 101^st^ Terrace

Kansas City, MO 64153

**Name of Nominee:** Mark Mathewson

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** MATH ewe son

**Title**: Chief, Information Generation Section, Information Systems
Branch

**Series and Grade:** ZP-IV

**Complete office address:** NOAA/ESRL/OAR, R/GSD4

> 325 Broadway

Boulder, CO 80305-3328

**Name of Nominee:** Bob Rood

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** RUDE

**Title**: Lead, NWSH/OST/SEC/Development Branch/Test and Integration

**Series and Grade:** GS- 391-14

**Complete office address:** NOAA/NWS Headquarters

Office of Science and Technology

1325 East West Highway

Silver Spring, MD 20910

**Name of Nominee:** Mark Tew

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** Two

**Title**: Meteorologist, OCWWS Fire and Public Weather Services Branch

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-14

**Complete office address:** NOAA/NWS Headquarters

> Office of Climate Water and Weather Services

1325 East West Highway

Silver Spring, MD 20910

**Name of Nominee:** Herbert White

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** White

**Title**: Meteorologist

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-14

**Complete office address:** NOAA/NWS Headquarters

> Office of Climate Water and Weather Services

1325 East West Highway

Silver Spring, MD 20910

**Name of Nominee:** Shannon White

**Salutation:** Ms.

**Pronunciation:** White

**Title**: Meteorologist, W/OS6

**Series and Grade:** GS-1340-13

**Complete office address:** NOAA/NWS Headquarters

> Office of Climate Water and Weather Services

7777 Walnut Grove Road

Memphis, Tennessee 38120

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:**

Davis -- Regional Cline, Hydrometeorology, October 2005

Davis -- Local Cline, Hydrometeorology, September 2005

Davis -- Local Cline, Support Services, July 2004

Mathewson - Bronze Medal October 2003

Browning --Bronze Medals 1998 and 1999; NOAA Unit Citations 1998 and
1996 -- Warning service all.

Rood - Issac Cline Award (Office and Division Level) -- Aviation
verification software development

Tew -- Isaac Cline Award 1999 (Office Level)

Tew -- Isaac Cline Award 2000 (Office Level)

S. White -- Bronze Medal 1999

S. White -- Bronze Medal 1998

H. White -- NA

**6. Current Performance Rating:** Pass for all

**7. Nominator=s Name, Title, complete office address, and phone
number:**

Greg Mandt, Director

NWS Office of Science and Technology

1325 East West Highway, W/OST

Silver Spring, MD 20910

Telephone: (301) 713-1746

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}** 200
character max (200)

The team developed and deployed usable capability for NWS meteorologists
to quickly, accurately and efficiently issue hazardous weather products
encoded with VTEC to enhance their use by customers.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}** 150 character max (140)

For developing and deploying a new software warning tool which codifies
and permits automated delivery of NWS warning products to our users.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}** 600 character max (562)

The GHG team successfully developed and deployed a new software warning
tool which codifies and permits automated delivery of NWS warning
products to our users. The new warning tool provides WFO meteorologists
with high quality warning preparation software that is fully integrated
into the NWS AWIPS gridded forecast suite and automatically incorporates
VTEC coding in the product development process. This resulted in
increased forecaster time efficiency, improved product accuracy and much
appreciation from NWS operational forecasters and industry partners.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

88D The WSR-88D is the Doppler Radar system installed at NWS offices
between the late 1980s and middle 1990s. This system greatly enhanced
the ability of forecasters to determine which storms were or would
become severe.

AWIPS Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System. This is the
operational display system at NWS Forecast Offices that integrates
satellite, radar, model and observational data into the same display
system.

COE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

DHS Department of Homeland Security

DNR Department of Natural Resources (includes state agencies)

GFE Graphical Forecast Editor. AWIPS software application used to create
the national digital database of all weather elements through seven
days.

GHG Graphical Hazard Generator. The software tool built into GFE that
creates hazardous weather products through the graphical interface.

GPRA Government Performance and Results Act

Gridded Forecast Suite The set of gridded forecast elements through
which the forecaster creates both the forecast products and their
portion of the National Digital Forecast Database.

NWS National Weather Service

OT&E Operational Test and Evaluation. This is the process through which
new software loads are tested in the operational environment to identify
and correct existing software errors and ensure operational viability.

TWC The Weather Channel

USFS U.S. Forest Service

USGS U.S. Geological Survey

VTEC Valid Time Event Code. This is the new coding for hazardous weather
events that enables weather providers and vendors to automate and tailor
the product stream they receive and disseminate.

WFO NWS Weather Forecast Office

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}** 2000 character max
(1966)

-   What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department=s mission/or Strategic Plan?

An improved software warning tool supports the Department's Strategic
Plan in the Weather and Water Mission Strategies to "employ scientific
and emerging technological capabilities to advance decision-support
services and educate stakeholders."

-   **What was the context in which the nominees addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

The nominees deployed an innovative VTEC warning tool solution, GHG,
which completely replaces and improves upon the previous warning tool.
The solution was national in scope, (i.e.**,** worked for all hazardous
weather requirements in all regions).

-   **What specific actions did the nominees take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

This team developed the proof-of-concept GHG code, determined the
viability of using GHG as a solution which incorporated VTEC into the
products, made the business case supporting the shift in the AWIPS
architecture to use GHG, and led development, testing, and integration
of this capability into the AWIPS/GFE national software baseline.
Throughout the effort, team members maintained contact with industry
partners on usability and ensured the end product met acceptable quality
standards through workforce training and intensive product evaluation.

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?**

Quantitative results from OT&E show that GHG-produced products had 90%
fewer composition errors (from the previous software) and also reduced
composition time by over 75%.

Qualitative results may be best stated by comments from an external user
and NWS forecaster:

First Alert -- \"*The successful implementation of VTEC has allowed us
at First Alert to significantly improve the quality of the
Watches/Warnings/Advisories we decode automatically and deliver directly
to the public. Further, I believe that active dialog among the NWS,
partners and customers during the development and testing of VTEC
contributed to the success and public acceptance of the project.\"*

Forecaster -- *"GHG has revolutionized the way the NWS issues long-term
hydrologic and severe weather watches and warnings. This may be the
single most important field development effort in support of critical
weather services since the 88D and AWIPS itself".*

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}** 2000 character max
(1998)

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

Implementation of VTEC began in early 2002; however the previous warning
tool could not support it. In parallel, an innovative prototype was
developed using the new digital forecast tools in early 2004 and
resulted in GHG. GHG was implemented operationally in November 2005.

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

The accomplishment enabled the incorporation of VTEC into hazardous
weather products in a way that ensured a high degree of accuracy and
timeliness of issuance. This has increased customer satisfaction with
the products and enabled greater reliance on them. Internally,
forecaster frustration diminished, and morale improved greatly.

WeatherBug -- "*We appreciate your hard work on this, we are looking
forward to using VTEC."*

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

VTEC in long duration warnings enable officials to better verify the
accuracy of GPRA performance measures. Also, other AWIPS applications
can now be improved to make use of the VTEC coding. NWS is considering
whether other messages (e.g., Non-Weather Emergency Messages issued by
DHS through NWS infrastructure) should have VTEC coding.

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?**

There are impacts on other agencies that currently use NWS hazardous
weather products, including the COE, USGS, DNR, USFS, and DHS. With more
reliable and accurate NWS hazardous weather products, automated
interpretation of VTEC coding is much more reliable for any NWS
hazardous weather issuance.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?**

NWS took a major step forward in use of technology to automate portions
of the hazardous weather issuance process. It improved coding
reliability, event tracking, and ensured appropriate message
interpretation.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

VTEC improved the accuracy of event actions and the appropriateness of
VTEC coding in products. This is a great asset for users who dispensed
with parsing text and now automate receipt product dissemination with
confidence.

AccuWeather -- "*VTEC is a very useful thing. One line of code tells you
the most you need to know. In the past, you had to parse out the
headlines. VTEC provides a standardized location and a much better way
of doing things*."

**Daniel Cobb Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Personal and Professional Excellence**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 61**

1\. Type of Award: **Silver**

2\. Nomination Type: **Group**

3\. Nomination Category: **Personal & Professional Excellence**

4\. Name of Nominee: **Daniel K. Cobb, Jr.**

Salutation: Mr.

Pronunciation: Cobb

Title: Meteorologist \-- Team Leader

Series and Grade: GS-1430-13

810 MAIN ST

CARIBOU ME 04736

LO: NWS

> Name of Nominee: **Arden Berge**
>
> Salutation: Mr.
>
> Pronunciation: ARE-din BURR-gah
>
> Title: Meteorologist \--Contributor
>
> Series and Grade: GS-1430-13
>
> CWSU Minneapolis, MN
>
> 512 DIVISION ST
>
> FARMINGTON MN 55024-1299
>
> LO: NWS
>
> Name of Nominee: **Douglas Boyette**
>
> Salutation: Mr.
>
> Pronunciation: boy-ETT
>
> Title: Meteorologist \-- Contributor
>
> Series and Grade: GS-1430-13
>
> CWSU Memphis, TN
>
> ARTCC 3229 DEMOCRAT ROAD
>
> MEMPHIS TN 38118
>
> LO: NWS
>
> Name of Nominee: **Barry Neilson**
>
> Salutation: Mr.
>
> Pronunciation: KNEEL-sen
>
> Title: Meteorologist \-- Contributor
>
> Series and Grade: GS-1430-13
>
> CWSU Salt Lake City
>
> 2242 W NORTH TEMPLE
>
> SALT LAKE CITYUT 84116-2919
>
> LO: NWS
>
> Name of Nominee: **Warren W. Rodie**
>
> Salutation: Mr.
>
> Pronunciation: ROAD-dee
>
> Title: Meteorologist \-- Contributor
>
> Series and Grade: GS-1430-13
>
> CWSU Longmont, CO
>
> 2211 W 17TH AVE
>
> LONGMONT CO 80501-9763
>
> LO: NWS
>
> Name of Nominee: **Kathleen Schlachter**
>
> Salutation: Ms.
>
> Pronunciation: SHLAHK-ter
>
> Title: Meteorologist \-- Contributor
>
> Series and Grade: GS-1430-13
>
> Aviation Services Branch, Silver Spring, MD
>
> 1325 EAST WEST HWY
>
> SILVER SPRING MD 20910-3283
>
> LO: NWS
>
> Name of Nominee: **Christopher Strager**
>
> Salutation: Mr.
>
> Pronunciation: STRAY-ger
>
> Title: Meteorologist \-- Contributor
>
> Series and Grade: GS-1430-13
>
> CWSU Atlanta, GA
>
> Name of Nominee: **Jeffrey Tongue**
>
> Salutation: Mr.
>
> Pronunciation: TUNG
>
> Title: Meteorologist \-- Contributor
>
> Series and Grade: GS-1430-13
>
> 175 BROOKHAVEN AVE
>
> UPTON NY 11973-0002
>
> LO: NWS
>
> Name of Nominee: **Charles A. West**
>
> Salutation: Dr.
>
> Pronunciation: WEST
>
> Title: Meteorologist \-- Contributor
>
> Series and Grade: GS-1430-13
>
> CWSU Atlanta, GA

299 WOOLSEY RD

HAMPTON GA 30228-2106

LO: NWS

5\. Other National Weather Service Awards:

-   **Christopher Strager \-- National Cline Award in 1999 for a tornado
    outbreak in Pittsburgh, and also in 1998 received a group DOC Silver
    Medal as part of the WFO Grand Forks response to the Red River
    Valley flooding the winter of 1997-1998.**

-   **Cobb -- None**

-   **Berge -- None**

-   **Boyette -- None**

-   **Neilson --None**

-   **Rodie -- None**

-   **Schlacter -- None**

-   **Tongue -- Organizational Gold Medal in 2002**

-   **West \-- None**

6\. Current Performance Rating: Meets or Exceeds for all

7\. Nominator's Name, Title, complete office address, and phone number:

John A. May, Director

NWS Aviation Weather Center

7220 NW 101^st^ Terrace

Kansas City, MO 64153

816.584.7201

Leader, Air Traffic Weather Support Team

[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}

There was no organization-wide, up-to-date training tool for new or
veteran NWS meteorologists whose responsibility is to advise air traffic
managers at the nation's twenty-one FAA Air Route Traffic Control
Centers. The effort to fill this need resulted in a training package
that not only fulfilled its original purpose, but has been identified as
an excellent training resource for non-meteorologists outside the
federal government.

[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}

For developing "The Impact of Weather on Air Traffic Management"
training module.

[II. Program Text:]{.underline}

There was a need to provide training to new and veteran NOAA
meteorologists stationed at the FAA's twenty-one Air Route Traffic
Control Centers (ARTCCs) with up-to-date concepts on how weather affects
the efficient and safe flow of the nation's air traffic. There was no
quality training material for this purpose. The team led the
multi-agency effort to fill this need by delivering a web-based training
module named "The Impact of Weather on Air Traffic Management". The high
quality result was delivered within seven months. NOAA Assistant
Administrator for Weather D.L. Johnson required all NWS forecasters to
take the module. As of January 17, 2006, almost all forecasters in the
Eastern, Central, Western, and Alaska Regions and in the Aviation
Weather Center have completed the course. The training module has also
been identified outside the federal government as an excellent training
resource for non-meteorologists.

[III. Justification:]{.underline}

[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}

a\. FAA -- Federal Aviation Administration

b\. AIR ROUTE TRAFFIC CONTROL CENTER (ARTCC) -- An FAA facility
established to provide air traffic control service to aircraft operating
within controlled airspace, principally during the en route phase of
flight.

c\. COMET -- Cooperative Program for Operational Meteorology, Education,
and Training.

In 1989 the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) and
the National Weather Service (NWS) established the Cooperative Program
for Operational Meteorology, Education and Training (COMET®) to promote
a better understanding of mesoscale meteorology and to maximize the
benefits of new weather technologies. Today the COMET Program addresses
education and training needs in the atmospheric and related sciences
through three main activities:

d.  WFO -- Weather Forecast Office

e.  SOO -- Science and Operations Officer

f.  NOAA -- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline} (Maximum number of
characters for all four questions in this section cannot exceed 2000,
including spaces.)

-   What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department's mission/or Strategic Plan?

A major **DOC** Goal is to *support the Nation's Commerce with
Information for Safe, Efficient, and Environmentally Sound
Transportation*. A major NOAA activity within this goal is the support
of the nation's air traffic with products and advice to FAA facilities
whose responsibility is to manage air traffic. There was no quality
training material to train new and veteran NOAA meteorologists stationed
at the twenty-one Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCCs) **on how**
weather affects the efficient flow of the nation's air traffic to more
effectively advise the nation's air traffic managers. The training
material would also be useful to sensitize NWS forecasters at **WFOs**
who prepare forecasts for airport terminals across the nation,
especially forecasts at the major hubs.

-   What was the context in which the nominees addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?

The sponsor directed the team to produce an effective training module
which will help aviation meteorologists understand how weather affects
the safety and efficiency of the nation's air traffic, and a timeline
expressed in terms of months, the team quickly gathered the talents of
production experts and subject matter experts and delivered a high
quality interactive web-based training package which exceeded most
expectations.

-   What specific actions did the nominees take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?

**T**he team tapped the production and education resources of COMET, air
traffic management experts within the FAA, and aviation weather service
expertise within the National Weather Service. Together they developed a
first class training package which more than met expectations.

-   What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?

The result of this effort is the first organization-wide training
package for NWS aviation meteorologists which explains the effect of
weather on the nation's air traffic system. Most NWS forecasters have
completed the course.

[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline} (Maximum number of
characters for all six questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.)

-   How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?

The development team was notified of the team charter on November 10,
2004. Training package was delivered June 2, 2005.

-   What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?

With the deployment of this training package all NWS meteorologists
serving at Air Route Traffic Control Centers and forecasters who site
specific forecasts at the nation's busiest hubs, will have completed
this course by June 30, 2006. The desired sensitivity to the challenges
faced by the nation's air traffic managers will mean better products and
advice from NWS meteorologists.

-   What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?

As a result of higher sensitivity to the challenges faced by the
nation's air traffic managers and higher quality services, new products
designed to better help air traffic managers to make decisions will be
delivered.

-   Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?

This accomplishment directly affects the performance of FAA air traffic
management by providing all NWS aviation forecasters with a better
understanding of how weather affects FAA operations. The result is that
timely, high quality products and advice will be delivered to air
traffic managers and the nation's air traffic will move more
efficiently. Indirectly, airlines and airline passengers will benefit
from improved weather information to air traffic managers.

**One airline representative who discovered the online course told the
NWS that the animated operational scenarios were some of the best
explanations of air traffic concepts he had ever seen, and will be using
these animations in training. "That flash scenario is fantastic. Our
dispatchers could get a much better understanding on how weather impacts
arrival approaches by viewing this flash program. Any ideas where I
could get a copy of this program? Thanks again for all your help. \--
Gary Dockan, US Air**

-   Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?

**All persons interested in aviation throughout the world can access
this training from the COMET web page. On January 17, 2006, 1,995 people
had registered for the course, 1,825 had completed it. In the words of
one member of the COMET staff, "Very Impressive".**

-   Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?

Yes. The resulting course introduced valuable techniques for students to
visualize air traffic management problems such as typical airport
arrival processes. The value of this technique has been identified by
organizations outside NOAA and the FAA.

US Airways, when they discovered the course on the web, told us
**"**That flash scenario is fantastic. Our dispatchers could get a much
better understanding on how weather impacts arrival approaches by
viewing this flash program. Any ideas where I could get a copy of this
program?

The U.S. Navy told COMET: "Just want to say thank you for putting
together this excellent module. Keep them coming. Well done, thank you."

**WFO Melbourne, FL**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**NWS**

**Nomination \# 62**

**1. Type of Award:** Silver

**2. Nomination Type:** Organizational

**3. Nomination Category:** Customer Service

**4. Name of Nominee: NWS** Weather Forecast Office Melbourne, Florida

**Complete office address:** WFO Melbourne

> 421 Croton Rd.

Melbourne, FL 32935

Accepting the Award: Bart Hagemeyer Pronunciation: HAY-ga-my-er

Meteorologist In Charge

**5. Other National Weather Service Awards:**

Gold Medal December 1998

Bronze Medal November 2001

Gold Medal December 2005

**6. Current Performance Rating:** n/a.

**7. Nominator=s Name, Title, complete office address, and phone
number:**

X. William Proenza, Director

NWS Southern Region

819 Taylor Street, Room 10A03

Fort Worth, TX 76102

817-978-1000

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

WFO Melbourne provided exceptional service to their customers and to
other NWS Forecast Offices during 2005 Hurricanes Katrina, Ophelia,
Rita, and Wilma, reducing loss of life.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

For providing innovative, life-saving customer service to Central
Florida and other NWS offices during the record-breaking 2005 hurricane
season.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

WFO Melbourne is recognized for providing life-saving weather warnings
and customer service to East Central Florida for Hurricanes Ophelia and
Wilma, and for providing critical support to other NWS WFOs during
Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Wilma's direct hit on Melbourne's forecast
area produced hurricane force winds, devastating tornadoes and flooding.
Melbourne's interactions with the media and EMs and accurate warnings
saved lives. Also, their forecasters were deployed to WFOs Slidell and
Miami to support operations for the landfalls of Katrina and Rita.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

EM(s)-- Emergency Managers(s)

NWS -- National Weather Service

WFO(s) -- Weather Forecast Office(s)

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all four questions in this section cannot exceed 1900,
including spaces.)

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department=s mission/or Strategic Plan?**

Melbourne's actions fulfilled the Department's goal to serve society's
need for weather and water information; specifically, to improve
forecasts and warnings to reduce uncertainty, increase economic
benefits, and promote appropriate responses to hazardous weather.

-   **What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?**

Because of unprecedented hurricane activity, Melbourne operated at a
heightened state of readiness almost continuously from June through
early November 2005. They served society's need for hazardous weather
information with absolute dedication to duty. And, when their own area
was not seriously threatened, they sent forecasters to help other NWS
offices.

-   **What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?**

WFO Melbourne provided hundreds of briefings for EMs, the public, and
the media for Katrina, Ophelia, and Wilma. Their statements and warnings
were unusually effective, especially tornado warnings for Wilma with
lead times of as much as 40 minutes. Coordination during Ophelia was
particularly challenging as it remained stationary just offshore
Melbourne for two days. Melbourne issued 41 innovative graphical
packages highlighting the potential impacts for all the hurricanes that
were of great benefit to decision-makers. When it became clear their
area was going to be spared, Melbourne sent staff to assist WFOs Slidell
and Miami during the passage of Katrina and Rita. Melbourne proactively
coordinated with Gulf Coast WFOs to share the latest radar strategies,
extreme wind warning procedures, and lessons learned from Katrina prior
to the landfall of Rita**.**

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms[?]{.underline}**

The best measure of WFO Melbourne's actions is that there were no
fatalities in their area of over three million people from Wilma's
devastating flooding and tornadoes. Tornado warnings with up to 40
minute lead times greatly exceeded Department goals. Melbourne's support
of other WFOs during Katrina and Rita resulted in improved radar
operations and effective extreme wind warnings, reducing loss of life.

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all six questions in this section cannot exceed 1900.)

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

Melbourne provided vital services during Hurricanes Katrina, Ophelia,
Rita, and Wilma virtually non-stop from 23 August to 24 October 2005

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

Due to Melbourne's leadership, interim procedures, e.g. use of inland
hurricane warnings, were put in place prior to the 2005 Hurricane
season, and use of Doppler radar for improved warnings for destructive
hurricane winds.

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department=s mission?**

The accomplishments of Melbourne during the record 2004 and 2005 seasons
provided a proof of concept of a new paradigm of WFO operations that
will lead to great improvements in hurricane services in the next 5
years. Melbourne staff continues to provide their experience and
leadership to improvements in extreme hurricane wind warnings,
developing probabilistic digital hurricane products, and improving
hurricane impact graphics.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

NWS forecast offices successfully adopted Melbourne's concepts for
extreme hurricane wind warnings and local graphical impact products
during the record 2005 season. Melbourne's advocacy of these issues at
national forums such as the Inter-Departmental and NOAA Hurricane
Conferences will hasten their implementation nationally.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?**

Melbourne sent a radar/tropical specialist to WFO Slidell to provide
support for the landfall of Katrina and proactively coordinated with
Gulf Coast WFOs on new radar operation strategies and concepts of
issuing warnings for extreme landfalling hurricane winds prior to the
landfall of Rita. These efforts were successfully implemented for
Katrina and Rita improving service and follow-on development by
Melbourne continues to accelerate improvements in WFO hurricane
operations.

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?**

Melbourne proved the concept that local impact graphics can greatly
enhance society's response. Graphical impact packages (41) were produced
for all three hurricanes and user feedback was enthusiastic. Melbourne's
results will hasten implementation of these concepts nationally.

**OAR NOMINATIONS**

**Richard Feely Group**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**OAR**

**Nomination \# 63**

**The NOAA Ocean Carbon Team**

**For**

**Scientific Achievement Associated with the Determination of the Global
Inventory of Anthropogenic CO~2~ in the Oceans and the Identification of
its Present and Future Impacts on Marine Ecosystems due to Ocean
Acidification**

**Individuals in the Nominated Group:**

Richard A. Feely OAR/Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory

Christopher L. Sabine OAR/Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory

Rik Wanninkhof OAR/Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory

Tsung-Hung Peng OAR/Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory

Dana Greeley OAR/Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory

Marilyn Roberts (retired) OAR/Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory

Catherine Cosca OAR/Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory

Esa Peltola OAR/Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory

Robert Castle OAR/Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory

Bette Huss OAR/Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory

**Grades, Titles, and Awards of the Nominees:**

[Richard A. Feely]{.underline}, Supervisory Oceanographer, GS-1360-15;
Outstanding Scientific Paper of the Year Award, 2003; Special Act Awards
in 12/2005, 12/2004, 8,2004, 12/2003, 12/2002; Administrator Award (with
R. Wanninkhof) 2002

[Christopher L. Sabine]{.underline}, Oceanographer, GS-1360-15;
Outstanding Scientific Paper of the Year Award, 2003; Special Act Awards
in 12/2005, 12/2004, 8/2004, 12/2003

[Rik Wanninkhof]{.underline}, Oceanographer, ZP-1360-V; Outstanding
Scientific Paper of the Year Award 2000, 2001,2002; Administrator Award
(with R. Feely) 2002

[Tsung-Hung Peng]{.underline}, Oceanographer, ZP-1360-V; Outstanding
Scientific Paper of the Year Award 2000

[Dana Greeley]{.underline}, Physical Scientist, GS-1301-12; Special Act
Awards in 12/2005, 12/2004, 12/2003; QSI in 12/2002

[Marilyn Roberts]{.underline} (retired), Physical Science Technician,
GS-1311-12; Special Act Award in 12/2003; QSI in 12/2004 and12/2002

[Catherine Cosca]{.underline}, Physical Scientist, GS-1301-12; Special
Act Award in 12/2005

[Esa Peltola]{.underline}, Oceanographer, ZP-1360-III

[Robert Castle]{.underline}, IT Specialist (Management), ZP-2210-III

[Betty Huss]{.underline}, IT Specialist (Management), ZP-2210-III

**Nominated by: Eddie N. Bernard, Director, PMEL and Robert Atlas,
Director, AOML**

***What is the significance of this accomplishment?***

The synthesis of a 10-year ocean measurement program has quantified the
amount of anthropogenic CO~2~ stored in the ocean and established the
potential impacts on marine ecosystems, such as coral reefs.

**Certificate Citation:** For pioneering research leading to the
discovery of increased acidification in the world\'s oceans due to the
absorption of atmospheric carbon dioxide.

**Program Booklet Text:** For painstaking observations and
groundbreaking research over the past fifteen years that show that the
uptake and storage of anthropogenic CO~2~ by the ocean comes at a cost
-- the pH of the ocean is dropping. Ocean acidification, as the
phenomenon is called, occurs because the carbon dioxide reacts with the
water to form a weak acid. Because ocean calcifying organisms have been
shown to be extremely sensitive to pH levels, ocean acidification has
major impacts on corals and other marine life, which could have
significant impacts on fisheries, tourism, and other ocean-related
economies.

# Section 1 - Definitions

**Anthropogenic CO~2~ -** As a result of fossil-fuel burning and human
perturbations to terrestrial ecosystems between 1800 and 1994, the
oceans have absorbed 430 billion tons of carbon dioxide from the
atmosphere, or nearly half of the fossil fuel emissions over this
period. As a component of the U.S. Climate Change Research Program, the
NOAA research team, together with their international collaborators,
were the first to quantify this ocean inventory using direct
measurements of ocean carbon concentrations and show that the ocean has
been the only consistent sink for human induced CO~2~ emissions released
to the atmosphere. This absorption has benefited humankind by reducing
the greenhouse gas levels in the atmosphere by over 40 parts per million
(ppm) out of a total of 90 ppm increase since the start of the
industrial revolution. This has mitigated the global warming impact on
the planet. However, the absorption of 20 million tons of carbon dioxide
per day is having an impact on the chemical balance of the ocean.

**Ocean Acidification -** Observations by the team over the past two
decades reveal that the absorption of carbon dioxide is lowering
seawater pH to levels that have not been seen for at least half a
million years. On the pH scale, 7.0 is neutral, with points higher on
the scale being "basic" and points lower being "acidic." The ocean has a
pH of about 8 and the ocean flora and fauna thrive under these mildly
basic conditions. Research by the NOAA team has shown that the pH of
ocean surface waters has already decreased by about 0.1 units from 8.16
to 8.05 since the beginning of the industrial revolution and could drop
by another 0.3 units by the end of this century. The chemistry of the
CO~2~ reaction with water is well understood and is not in question. The
novel work of the team has been in breaking the paradigm that the ocean
is so large that humans could not have a significant impact at a global
level. These researchers have documented the changes and taken the next
step of demonstrating the potential consequences for ocean ecosystems
and society.

**Ecological Consequences of Ocean Acidification -** Many marine
organisms that produce calcium carbonate shells have shown deterioration
due to increasing carbon dioxide levels in seawater and the resulting
decline in pH. Increasing ocean acidification has been shown to
significantly reduce the ability of reef-building corals to produce
their skeletons, making the reef more vulnerable to decay. This will
affect the geographic range of corals and the organisms that depend on
the reef habitat. In addition, many marine algae and free-floating
plants and animals that have calcium carbonate protective shells are
also impacted by ocean acidification. These organisms are important food
sources for higher order marine species, including some key fish
species. One type of animal called a pteropod is eaten by organisms
ranging in size from tiny krill to whales. In particular, pteropods are
a major food source for North Pacific salmon, and are also eaten by
mackerel, herring, and cod. The weakened shells and skeletons will
compromise the health and success of these organisms and will allow
competing species to take over. This will likely cause a decrease in the
biodiversity of our oceans, though more research is needed to identify
large-scale ecosystem impacts. Other species, such as snails, sea
urchins, starfish, and lobster also construct their shells or skeletons
in the same way and could be affected as well. Higher marine life forms,
including even some fish, may be affected by declining pH through a
process called acidosis, or carbonic acid buildup in body fluids. This
leads to lowered immune response, metabolic decline as well as
reproductive and respiratory difficulties.

**Economic Consequences of Ocean Acidification -** Healthy coral reefs
and biodiversity are the foundation to many viable fisheries as well as
the source of jobs and businesses through tourism and recreation.
According to the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy, approximately half of
all managed fisheries depend on coral reefs and related habitats for a
portion of their life cycles. The National Marine Fisheries Service
estimates the value of coral reefs to U.S. fisheries is over \$100
billion. Local economies also receive billions of dollars from reef
tourism. In the Florida Keys, for example, coral reefs attract more than
\$1.2 billion in tourism annually. In Hawaii, reef-related tourism and
fishing generate \$360 million per year. Worldwide, coral reefs sustain
a local tourism economy that makes up 10 percent of all jobs. Plus,
coral reefs provide vital protection to coastal areas that are
vulnerable to storm surges and tsunamis.

**NOAA -** National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

**PMEL -** Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory

**AOML --** Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory

**NSF --** National Science Foundation

**USGS --** United States Geological Survey

**DOE --** Department of Energy

**WOCE --** World Ocean Circulation Experiment

**JGOFS --** Joint Global Ocean Flux Study

**OACES --** Ocean-Atmosphere Carbon Exchange Study

**IOOS** -- Integrated Ocean Observing System

# Section 2 - Award Justification

What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?

NOAA is responsible for assessing and predicting human-induced changes
to coastal and open-ocean ecosystems and providing information about the
future impacts. The recent quantification of ocean acidification and its
effect on ocean biota represents a major new environmental impact to
overall health of marine ecosystems. Since the protection and management
of marine ecosystems are the foundation for viable fisheries, NOAA must
address the long-term consequences of this acidification.

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge, or problem?**

The NOAA team, working with their partners, determined the distribution
of anthropogenic CO~2~ in the global oceans, identified the changes in
pH in the upper ocean, and assessed the present and future impacts of
CO~2~ on marine ecosystems.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge, or problem?**

After identifying the global significance of the ocean acidification
problem in a series of papers in 2002, the team developed a
collaborative effort with ocean modelers and ecosystem biologists to
assess the impacts of ocean acidification through the end of this
century. The result was two research papers in Science and one in Nature
that clearly established the fact that ocean acidification will impact
ocean ecosystems if we continue to release vast amounts of CO~2~ into
the atmosphere. Through adaptation of the ocean carbon observing system
that is currently being built by NOAA as part of IOOS, the rate of
acidification and impacts on coral reefs and ecosystems will be
carefully monitored.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
quantitative terms?**

After the two Science articles, whose lead authors were team members,
were published in 2004, the international community sponsored an
independent assessment of the environmental impacts of ocean
acidification, culminating in The Royal Society report, "Ocean
Acidification due to Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide." Within the United
States, a joint NOAA-NSF-USGS workshop on this topic was held in St
Petersburg, FL in April 2004. The workshop report, "Impacts of
Increasing Ocean Acidification on Coral Reefs and Other Marine
Calcifiers," will be released in early 2006.

# Section 3 -- Additional Information

***How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?***

The NOAA team began the assessment of the anthropogenic CO~2~ inventory
in the oceans as a Joint NOAA-NSF-DOE activity in 1991 as part of the
WOCE-JGOFS-OACES global CO~2~ survey. The survey was completed in 1998
and the data synthesis was completed in 2005.

***What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?***

In the short term, sustained observations to accurately assess the
impacts to coral reefs and other marine ecosystems are being developed.

What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?

In the long term, an accurate assessment of the impacts of ocean
acidification is vital to understanding and maintaining the health,
stability and longevity of a wide variety of oceanic marine ecosystems.

***Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?***

Long-term monitoring of changes in the carbon cycle of the oceans is
critical to the research components of the National Science Foundation
and the U. S. Geological Survey that conduct basic research on the
mechanistic processes that affect the distributions of the marine
organisms within a given ecosystem. These agencies do not have a mandate
for sustained observations and monitoring of the carbon cycle and thus
rely critically on the long-term carbon, nutrient and other physical
measurements data provided by NOAA.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?***

Within NOAA, ecosystem and climate studies have only had limited
interactions. One of the most significant scientific advancements has
been the development of a scientific direction that cuts across the
traditional boundaries between ecosystem and climate research. Since
both research communities typically use very different approaches and
instrumentation, the fusion of these groups will undoubtedly introduce
new technology and opportunities for multidisciplinary research that
were not possible before.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific research areas as customer service or administrative
support? If so, how?***

The addition of climate relevant measurements to programs, such as
fisheries, that typically interact much more closely with the public
will lead to the development of new approaches for interacting with the
NOAA stakeholders. The new models and observations will allow us to
forecast how future changes in CO~2~ emissions will impact the chemistry
and biology of the oceans.

**Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory, Hurricane
Research Division**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**OAR**

**Nomination \# 64**

**Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory (OAR)**

**Nominated by: Judith Gray, Deputy Director, AOML**

**What is the significance of this accomplishment? maximum of 200
characters (200 used)**

AOML's scientists provided air and ground support to operational
forecasts during Hurricane Katrina while they and their families were
recovering from the damage from Katrina's South Florida landfall.

**I. Certificate Text: maximum of 150 characters (145 used)**

For innovation and commitment to the NOAA Hurricane Mission during
Katrina's Louisiana landfall while recovering from the South Florida
landfall.

**II. Program Booklet Text: maximum of 600 characters; not required for
Bronze nominations (597 used)**

HRD scientists left their homes and families after a damaging Katrina
landfall in South Florida to obtain information to improve TPC forecasts
as Katrina moved toward landfall in the Gulf. Based on analyses by HRD,
TPC was able to make more accurate assessments of intensity and size as
the storm changed dramatically prior to landfall. Technologies proven in
Katrina resulted in TPC revising its initial assessment of the storm,
and are providing long-term improvements to data for hurricane
forecasts.

**III. Justification:**

**Section 1 - Definitions**

3-D -- three dimensional

AFRES -- U.S. Air Force Reserve

AOML -- Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory, Office of
Oceanic and Atmospheric Research in Miami

EMC -- Environmental Modeling Center, National Weather Service, National
Centers for Environmental Prediction

HWRF -- Hurricane Weather Research and Forecasting model

GPS -- Global Positioning System

HRD -- Hurricane Research Division of AOML

NASA -- National Aeronautics and Space Administration

NOAA WP-3D -- NOAA's hurricane hunter turbo-prop aircraft

NOAA GIV -- NOAA's hurricane hunter jet aircraft

NSF -- National Science Foundation

ONR -- Office of Naval Research, U.S. Navy

SEFSC -- Southeast Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries
Service in Miami

SFMR -- stepped frequency microwave radiometer

TPC -- Tropical Prediction Center, National Weather Service, National
Centers for Environmental Prediction

USACE -- U. S. Army Corps of Engineers

**Section 2 - Award Justification (Maximum number of characters for all
four questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.) (1989 used)**

**\* What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

Observe, protect and manage the Earth's resources to promote
environmental stewardship

Advance understanding and predict changes in the earth's environment to
meet America's economic, social, and environmental needs

**\* What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

HRD scientists left their homes and families after the damaging Katrina
landfall in South Florida to obtain information to improve TPC forecasts
as Katrina moved toward landfall in the Gulf. HRD scientists

**\* What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

HRD participated in 4 WP-3D and 6 G-IV missions into Katrina providing:
support to operations through flight track planning, quality control of
observations from G-IV GPS dropsondes for use in operational models to
improve track guidance, interpretation of surface wind estimates from
SFMR to help TPC determine storm intensity and radius of hurricane and
gale-force winds, and experimental 3-D airborne Doppler radar analyses
of the horizontal and vertical structure of the winds. These data were
transmitted in real-time to TPC and EMC for use in preparing warnings
and initializing numerical models. HRD scientists also performed 30
surface wind analyses in Katrina every 6 h, and up to every 3h during
hurricane warnings from 24-29 August. These experimental surface wind
analyses assimilated data from all available sampling platforms and were
available to TPC in real-time.

**\* What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

Based on analyses of research data by HRD, TPC was able to get more
accurate assessments of the intensity and the radius of hurricane and
gale-force winds as the storm changed dramatically prior to landfall,
intensifying rapidly over the Gulf of Mexico and then weakening at
landfall. These estimates were used to refine the extent of extreme wind
speeds, document hurricane force winds over Lake Ponchartain, and the
large region of hurricane force winds at landfall to the east of the
center that accompanied the extreme storm surge and waves. Technologies
proven in Katrina resulted in TPC revising its initial assessment of
Katrina's strength, and are providing long-term improvements to data for
hurricane forecasts.

**Section 3 - Additional Information (Maximum number of characters for
all six questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.) (2000 used)**

**\* How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

Katrina impacted South Florida on 8/25 and made landfall in Louisiana on
8/29. AOML closed from 8/24-29. HRD scientists participated in
operational missions from 25-29 August.

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

Largely based on reanalysis of data supplied by HRD to TPC, Katrina's
intensity at landfall in Louisiana was changed from category 4 to 3. The
analyses continue to be essential in the government's assessment of
reasons for the problems encountered.

**\* What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?**

In Katrina, airborne Doppler radar was used for the first time to
transmit real-time, quality-controlled storm observations and analyses
from NOAA's WP-3D aircraft to TPC. These data and those from the SFMR
are revolutionizing NOAA's ability to estimate intensity and structure
(radii of hurricane and gale force winds) of hurricanes, significantly
reducing our uncertainty of surface winds, and will be essential to
initializing and evaluating operational numerical models, such as HWRF.

**\* Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

Improved observations and interpretation of SFMR and Doppler radar will
provide more accurate input to TPC and assist track and intensity
forecasts. HRD is supporting NWS and USACE in their post-storm
assessments. These data will be essential to NOAA, NASA, ONR, and
NSF-sponsored hurricane intensity research.

**\* Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

This was the first season that new operational SFMRs were used on both
NOAA WP-3Ds to transmit surface wind estimates to TPC. The many storms
with strong winds enabled scientists to evaluate and modify the
operational algorithm to improve surface wind estimates. The capability
to deliver airborne Doppler data to TPC and EMC for use in initializing
operational numerical models is important to implementing the new
operational hurricane forecast model (HWRF) and is the basis for the
G-IV airborne Doppler upgrade.

**\* Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how?**

The variety of technologies used was key in interpreting surface wind
estimates when compared to flight level wind estimates. They are
cornerstones of the next generation hurricane reconnaissance. The
revised SFMR algorithm will be implemented in units being installed on
AFRES WC-130 aircraft. The airborne Doppler radar developments were
essential to procurement of an airborne Doppler radar for the G-IV.

**Seth Gutman Group**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**OAR**

**Nomination \# 65**

**Global Systems Division**

**Earth System Research Laboratory**

**GPS Meteorology Team**

**Individuals in Nominated Group:**

Seth I. Gutman (Group Leader)

Susan R. Sahm

Kirk L. Holub

Stanley G. Benjamin

**Seth I. Gutman:** Chief, GPS-Met Observing Systems Section,
Demonstration Branch,

Global Systems Division, Earth System Research Laboratory

Physical Scientist (1301), ZP-IV; Step 3

**Awards**

-   FSL Web Award for Most Improved Site -- December 2004

-   Individual Cash Award for extraordinary technical/graphical support
    for the 1999 FSL Laboratory Review

-   Recipient of the Vice Presidential Hammer Award to the Maritime
    Differential GPS Service Team and the Nationwide Differential GPS
    Team -- March 1999

-   Project Commendation for Outstanding Technical Contribution of the
    planning for NOAA North American Atmospheric Observing System --
    April 1995

-   Project Commendation for Outstanding Systems Analysis in the
    preparation of the Upper-Air Observations Section of the FY96 NOAA
    Budget Initiative -- June 1994

-   GPS Program Outstanding Leadership Commendation -- October 1993

**Susan R. Sahm:** Information Technology Specialist
(2210)-(Applications Software)

ZP-IV; Step 2

**Awards**

-   FY05 -- Individual Cash Award for contribution to GPS-Met project by
    developing key analysis tools and Techniques

-   FY-05 Individual Cash Award - Assistance with hiring personnel for
    GPS-Met project.

-   FSL Web Award for Most Improved Site -- December 2004

-   U.S. Department of Commerce Gold Medal Award -- For Design,
    Development and Implementation of the ACE Real Time Solar Wind
    System -- 1999

-   Space Environment Center Director's Award - 1999

-   Performance Award and Special Act Award - 1998

-   Secretary of Commerce Award for Customer Service Excellence - 1994

-   Exemplary Service on the Extraordinary Working Group (Tiger Team) -
    1993

-   Commendation for Outstanding Contributions in Support of RCAS - 1992

-   NTIA Certificate of Recognition - 1982, 1983, 1987, 1988, 1990

-   Outstanding Performance Rating - 1984, 1985, 1986, 1991, 1994

-   Certificate of Appreciation for Assistance with Software Development
    for the High Frequency Radio Interoperability Tests for the Defense
    Communication Agency Counter-Drug Telecommunication Integration
    Office -- 1991

**Kirk L. Holub:** Physical Scientist (1301)**,** ZP-IV; Step 1

**Awards**

-   FSL Web Award for Most Improved Site -- December 2004

-   FY99 -- Recipient of the Vice Presidential Hammer Award to the
    Maritime Differential GPS Service Team and the Nationwide
    Differential GPS Team

**Stanley G. Benjamin:** Chief, Assimilation and Modeling Branch, Global
Systems

Division, Earth System Research Laboratory

Supervisory Meteorologist (1340); ZP-V; Step 3

**Awards**

-   Best Graphics Award at AMS Severe Local Storms Conference - 1985

-   US Department of Commerce Bronze Medal - 1998

**Nominated by: Alexander E. MacDonald, Director**

**Global Systems Division, Earth System Research Laboratory**

***What is the significance of this accomplishment?*** NOAA is now able
to use GPS to continuously monitor atmospheric water vapor at very low
cost, improving weather forecasts, climate monitoring and global
satellite and radiosonde measurements.

**Certificate Text:**

For the development of GPS water vapor observing systems for use in NOAA
weather forecasting, global climate monitoring and research.

**Program Booklet Text:**

The NOAA/ESRL team advanced weather forecasting, climate monitoring and
atmospheric research by providing a new way to monitor water vapor in
the atmosphere. The team is honored for its development of GPS
meteorology, a new low cost upper-air observing system that uses the
Global Positioning System (GPS) to continuously measure the total amount
of water vapor in the atmosphere. In addition, the team successfully
demonstrated new applications for GPS meteorology that are essential to
NOAA's Integrated Earth Observing System/Global Earth Observing System
of Systems (IEOS/GEOSS).

**Section 1 -- Definitions**

**CAPE** Convective Available Potential Energy. The amount of energy
required to lift a parcel of air vertically through the atmosphere. A
positive value of CAPE indicates instability and the possibility of
thunderstorms.

**Geodesist** A scientist who studies the size and shape of the Earth

**GEOSS** Global Earth Observing System of Systems

**GPS** Global Positioning System. A constellation of about 28
satellites that are used primarily for positioning, navigation, and time
transfer anywhere on Earth.

**GPS-Met** Global Positioning System Meteorology. Remote sensing of the
atmosphere using the signals broadcast by the GPS satellites.

**IEOS** Integrated Earth Observing System

**IUOS** Integrated Upper-Air Observing System

**NESDIS** NOAA's National Environmental Satellite, Data, and
Information Service

**NWS** NOAA's National Weather Service

**NOS** NOAA's National Ocean Service

**Remote Sensing** The use of information acquired from aircraft,
spacecraft, ships or ground-based platforms to gather information about
the environment without actually touching it.

**SPC** NOAA's Storm Prediction Center

**Troposphere** The lower region of the Earth's atmosphere that is
characterized by decreasing temperature with increasing altitude.

**USDOT** U.S. Department of Transportation

**USCG** U.S. Coast Guard

**WMO** World Meteorological Organization

**Section 2 -- Award Justification**

***What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?***

Water vapor plays a critical role in weather and climate processes but
is difficult to measure under all weather conditions. For example, an
important goal in modern weather prediction is the improvement of
short-term cloud and precipitation forecasts, but our ability to do so
is severely limited by the lack of timely and accurate water vapor data.

***What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge, or problem?***

NOAA Research had limited resources to investigate improved ways to
monitor atmospheric moisture. It did have the infrastructure of the NOAA
Profiler Network, and the expertise of NOAA scientists and engineers
with similar interests in solving this critical problem. At about the
same time, other federal agencies (USDOT, USCG) were trying to establish
differential GPS services to promote transportation safety and improve
land, sea and air positioning and navigation accuracy and reliability.
The NOAA/ESRL team recognized that the raw GPS data collected at these
non-NOAA sites could be processed and used for weather forecasting and
climate monitoring at little or no extra cost to anyone. The team
approached these agencies with the idea, and the agencies liked it so
much that they included it as an additional justification in their
(ultimately successful) request to Congress for funding.

***What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge, or problem?***

The team used its understanding of how the atmosphere affects GPS radio
signals, and how geodesists at NOAA and several universities correct GPS
measurements for atmospherically induced effects, to create a practical
and low cost way to monitor total column water vapor under all weather
conditions. The team worked with NOAA Joint Institutes to develop ways
to process these data in near real-time using low cost personal
computers rather than high-end computer workstations. Unique resources
within NWS, NOS, and NESDIS were leveraged to implement, test, and
evaluate the technique. Methods to use these GPS observations in weather
models had to be developed and tested, and the results verified. This
took more than seven years.

***What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?***

A network of about 380 GPS water vapor sites was built over 11 years.
Five out of six observations in the network come from sites belonging to
non-NOAA agencies or institutions. Incorporation of these observations
into NOAA operational weather models resulted in significant
improvements in 3-hour moisture forecasts, especially during severe
weather. Significant improvements in severe weather predictive indices
such as convective available potential energy (CAPE), and in the skill
with which extreme precipitation events are predicted, have been
demonstrated. The use of these measurements in NOAA weather models is
considered critical by NOAA's Storm Prediction Center. NWS Weather
forecast offices in all regions use GPS-Met observations to verify model
predictions and improve situational awareness during rapidly changing
conditions. With regard to climate studies, the team is now producing a
continuous record of water vapor variability at Mauna Loa Observatory to
detect and study effects of global climate change on water vapor in the
middle-upper troposphere. The accuracy and frequency of GPS measurements
is such that other observations and/or predictions can be independently
verified in a fraction of the time it takes using satellites or
radiosondes.

Other applications of GPS-Met critical to IEOS/GEOSS have been
identified, including: verifying global radiosonde soundings that form
the backbone of global weather and climate observations; quantifying and
reducing errors in satellite measurements, and providing accurate and
cost effective monitoring of these satellite observations. Finally,
global weather models incorporating GPS-Met observations will correct
errors in satellite altimeters that detect tsunami waves, measure the
extent of earthquake deformation on land, and monitor the subsidence of
the Mississippi Delta.

***Section 3 -- Additional Information***

***How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?***

A network of about 380 GPS water vapor sites was built over 11 years. It
took more than seven years to develop, test, and verify the impact that
these observations have on weather forecast accuracy. It took less than
one year to describe and quantify the errors in GOES satellite water
vapor measurements that have led to substantial improvements in
satellite remote sensing. It took about two years to describe and
quantify the errors in other satellite observations that will be used to
improve next-generation geostationary and polar orbiting satellite
measurements.

The transition of GPS Meteorology into NOAA operations through the
Weather and Water Science, Technology and Infusion activity is underway.

***What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?***

This activity provides for improved short-range (3-hour) weather
forecasts over the continental U.S. and critical data for NWS
forecasters during severe weather conditions including land-falling
hurricanes. GPS-Met provides essential data for: Hydrometeorological
Testbed studies along the West Coast; air quality studies in Texas and
adjacent states; ongoing GOES satellite calibration and validation
studies; calibration and validation of polar orbiting satellite data;
and quality control radiosonde measurements at about 30 upper-air sites.

***What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?***

Long-term impacts will be: improved weather models; improved regional
forecasts; improved global radiosonde data and satellite measurements;
more accurate and cost effective moisture observations from the
Integrated Upper-Air Observing System (IUOS); water vapor measurements
from buoys and ocean-going vessels; expansion of GPS-Met observations
initially over North America and eventually over the globe; and
development of a global water vapor climatology for the detection and
monitoring of short and long-term climate change.

Within NOAA, the accomplishments will affect: NOS programs through
precise positioning, improved height measurements, water level
monitoring; NWS Headquarters programs and all Weather Service Regions
through improved weather and space weather forecasts; NESDIS programs
involving satellite calibration and validation and the NOAA National
Data Centers; OAR Research Laboratories and Office of Global Programs
through improved global monitoring and model verification.

***Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?***

Other federal agencies benefiting from this accomplishment include: U.S.
Coast Guard for improved maritime positioning and navigation; U.S. DOT
for improved High Accuracy Nationwide Differential GSP Service impacting
Intelligent Transportation Systems, improved surface and aviation
weather forecasts, and high accuracy GPS positioning and navigation; DOD
through improved weather forecasts, satellite calibration and
validation, numerical weather modeling, and improved positioning and
navigation; and NASA through the correction of various satellite sensors
and platforms.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?***

GPS-Met represents a major advancement in science and technology because
it provides for the first time continuous independent all-weather
measurements of a critical atmospheric parameter that do not require
external calibration. The attribute that makes this possible is that GPS
uses highly accurate atomic clocks that are constantly improving. The
introduction of a totally independent measurement makes it possible to
evaluate the characteristics of different observations and models for
the first time. For example, radiosonde data are routinely ingested into
atmospheric models that are used as the "first guess" in a satellite
measurement. These measurements are then ingested into weather models as
an independent measurement. The difference between the model-derived
estimate of a parameter and an observation of this parameter is then
used to evaluate the accuracy of the observation. GPS provides us with a
practical way to "break this cycle" with high reliability and at very
low cost.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how?***

Non-scientific benefits come from improved public satisfaction with NOAA
services, and in the support of international programs including WMO.
For example, NOAA/ESRL data is available around the world and has served
as a means for other nations to test and evaluate GPS meteorology for
themselves without having to develop an independent observing system
network or data processing system. Most recently, Environment Canada
used results from NOAA/ESRL's system to justify the development of a
GPS-Met system in Canada.

**Morris Bender Group**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**OAR**

**Nomination \# 66**

**2005 Hurricane Season Forecasts**

**Individuals in the Nominated Group**

**Morris Bender, Meteorologist, ZP-1340-4**

**OAR/Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory**

**2005 NOAA Bronze Medal**

**2004 OAR Employee of the Year**

**Timothy Marchok, Meteorologist, ZP-1340-3**

**OAR/Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory**

**2005 NOAA Bronze Medal**

**Naomi Surgi, GS-14 Series \####**

**NWS/NCEP/Environmental Modeling Center**

**2005 NOAA Administrator's Award for establishing the Joint Hurricane
Test Bed**

**David Michaud, GS-14 Series 2210**

**NWS/NCEP/Central Operations**\
**2005 DOC Silver Medal\
2004 Isaac Cline Award for Leadership\
2000 DOC Bronze Medal**

**Nominated by: Ants Leetmaa, Director Geophysical Fluid Dynamics
Laboratory (GFDL)**

**Certificate Text: F**or timely improvements to the GFDL hurricane
model that led to outstanding track and intensity forecasts for Katrina
and Rita.

**Program Booklet Text**: This NOAA team developed critical improvements
to the GFDL Hurricane Prediction System and implemented them into the
operational hurricane forecasts. This led to more accurate hurricane
track and intensity forecasts. In addition, this team greatly expanded
the suite of model guidance available to forecasters. These improvements
were crucial in producing outstanding operational forecasts of
Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, two of the most memorable storms to hit the
U.S. Advanced warning of these devastating catastrophes was vital to
mitigating the loss of life and property.

**Section 1: Definitions**

**DOD -** Department of Defense -- Navy

**FEMA** -- Federal Emergency Management Agency

**EMC --** Environmental Modeling Center

**GFDL --** Geophysical Fluid Dynamics laboratory

**NCEP** -- National Centers for Environmental Prediction

**NCO --** NCEP Central Operations

**NHC** -- National Hurricane Center

**NWS** -- National Weather Service

**OAR** -- Oceanic and Atmospheric Research

**Section 2: Award Justification**

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?** The Department of Commerce
is charged with observing, protecting, and managing the earth's
resources to promote environmental stewardship. NOAA contributes
strongly toward this goal by increasing the lead time and accuracy for
weather warnings and forecasts, particularly for extreme events. NOAA
also increases development, application, and transition of advanced
science and technology to operations and services. Nowhere were these
NOAA objectives more successfully met than in the improvements to the
2005 operational hurricane forecasts.

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?** As a "Team NOAA" effort, these improvements
resulted from ongoing collaborations between GFDL, NCEP/NHC, EMC AND
NCO.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?** In collaboration with EMC's hurricane modeling
program, hurricane researchers at GFDL and their university partners
upgraded the hurricane model to use higher horizontal resolution,
improved effect of surface roughness in estimating a storm's wind, and a
better method of initializing the vortex in the forecast Scientists at
NCO then verified that the model improvements fit within the window
available for hurricane forecasts on NOAA's Operational Supercomputer.
Those at NHC added critical insight into the performance of the GFDL
system in the overall suite of models used to issue the official
hurricane forecast. This team also made upgrades to NWS software that
tracks the hurricane motion within numerical model fields. These
upgrades greatly expanded the suite of model guidance that is available
to forecasters in real time.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?** These improvements were found to improve the
accuracy of hurricane track forecasts by 10% on average. The benefits of
the improved hurricane forecast became clear when hurricanes Katrina and
Rita targeted the Gulf Coast. Landfall was forecasted within 60 nautical
miles 72 hours in advance of Katrina, and 110 nautical miles 72 hours in
advance of Rita. The success of these forecasts mitigated the potential
loss of life and property from two of the most devastating storms to hit
the U.S. in recent memory.

**Section 3 -- Additional Information**

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?** The GFDL hurricane
model was transitioned into operations at NCEP in 1995 and the DOD in
1996. The nominees have continued a long tradition of making annual
improvements to the hurricane model and transitioning these to
operations at NCEP and DOD.

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?** The GFDL hurricane model continues
to provide the best model-based guidance for track forecasts. The recent
improvements the nominees made to the model resulted in a 25% decrease
in track errors at 72 hours compared to the mean error for the 1995-2002
period.

**What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?** With current research into
hurricane -- ocean coupling and improved physics that is being evaluated
for operational implementation, NOAA looks to not only improvements to
track forecasts but an era of skillful intensity forecasts. This
capability is particularly important due to the influence of climate
variability on hurricane activity, one of the factors proposed for the
record number of tropical cyclones recorded in 2005.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?** Better hurricane forecasts provide
improved support to FEMA, DOD, and local emergency managers by helping
provide skillful forecasts of hurricane tracks and intensity, and in
cases of land falling hurricanes, increased warning and evacuation lead
times.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?** The accomplishments of the
nominees represent a shining example of research results being
transferred into operations. It is anticipated that with the new "One
NOAA" approach to R&D supercomputing to be implemented this year, the
Team's transition effort should become even easier.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how?** 
The operational hurricane forecasts produced by the NWS are a critical
component of NOAA's customer service activity. These represent the
expert judgment of forecasters based on their experience and the
numerical guidance provided by models. Hence model-based guidance is an
important component of this process. The forecasts themselves are then
disseminated to federal, state, local agencies and the general public,
e.g. a major area of customer service during hurricane season.

> **John Cortinas**
>
> **Silver Medal Nomination**
>
> **Organizational Development**
>
> **OAR**
>
> **Nomination \# 67**
>
> **Nominated by: Michael Uhart, Executive Director, OAR Office of
> Laboratories**
>
> **and Cooperative Institutes**
>
> **Past Awards for Dr. Cortinas:**

NOAA/OAR Performance Bonus - 5% (11/05)\
Individual Special Act or Service Award - \$5000 (5/05)\
OAR Outstanding Scientific Paper of the Year Award (4/00)

> ***What is the significance of this accomplishment?***
>
> Nineteen NOAA Cooperative Institutes, accounting for \$120M of NOAA's
> research budget, will more effectively contribute to NOAA's research
> needs.
>
> **Certificate Citation:** For creating a new competitive process to
> establish, maintain, and sunset NOAA Cooperative Institutes.
>
> **Program Booklet Text:** For many years, NOAA line offices
> established long-standing Cooperative Institute agreements with
> universities to provide research supporting NOAA's mission. CIs were
> established by different processes for different purposes. Beginning
> in 2004 and under Dr. Cortinas' leadership, NOAA standardized the way
> CIs are established, maintained, and sunsetted. The new NOAA
> Administrative Order and competitive process will save potentially
> hundreds of thousands of dollars annually; provide NOAA flexibility to
> engage multiple-university consortia; and allow greater latitude to
> focus on NOAA priorities.

**Section 1 - Definitions**

**CI - Cooperative Institute**

**NAO = NOAA Administrative Order**

**OAR = Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research**

**Section 2 - Award Justification**

***What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?***

The goal was to more effectively utilize the university research
community. NOAA's 19 CIs were each created by a single line office to
help address their mission needs. Terms of the awards were different,
prompting questions of equity among the universities and NOAA. The
objective was to develop a NOAA policy and create a process by which the
NOAA 5-year Cooperative Institute awards would be established,
maintained, and sunsetted. The challenge was to gain a consensus
agreement from multiple and diverse parties on the policy.

***What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?***

Over several decades, NOAA has periodically entered into long-standing
agreements with several U.S. universities that provide research in
support of NOAA's state-of-the-art services. These CI agreements have
served NOAA well; however, the process by which a CI was established has
never been a formal one. Several factors called for NOAA to change the
way its CIs are established, and for standard guidelines for sunsetting
and recompeting them. To make this change in policy, NOAA faced numerous
administrative, programmatic, and political challenges -- and NOAA set
out to do it in less than one year.

***What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?***

Dr. John Cortinas, as CI Program Manager for OAR, was appointed by the
NOAA Research Council to lead a Committee to assist in developing a new
NOAA CI policy that would govern the establishment of CIs -- often
having to mediate conflicting priorities. Next, he and the Committee
drafted a CI handbook that would guide all parties through the process.
Through this, there were long-standing CIs that took note as NOAA began
to change its approach to CIs and to their universities. This easily
could have resulted in confusion and/or the alienation of several of our
long-term partners. Dr. Cortinas kept the current CI Directors informed
of the process and timeline, and offered numerous opportunities for
input. As a result, there have been no serious concerns raised to senior
leadership by the current Institutes -- a tribute to Dr. Cortinas'
communications and negotiating skills and considering the multi-million
dollar stakes involved.

***What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?***

The result of Dr. Cortinas' actions are: 1) a new CI NOAA Administrative
Order that lays out a clear and concise policy on establishing,
maintaining, and sunsetting NOAA CIs; 2) a CI Handbook that details the
process; 3) current CIs who understand the value of competition and are
eager to participate in the process. Expected future results: 1)
potentially hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars saved annually in
the form of lower indirect cost rates and cost sharing; 2) more
flexibility with multiple-university consortia; 3) greater ability to
emphasize specific NOAA priorities, such as ecosystem-based management.

**Section 3** - **Additional Information**

***How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?***

Dr. Cortinas received the task in October 2004 and completed the CI NAO
in September 2005.

***What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?***

The short-term impact of the accomplishment for NOAA is having a
defensible policy for establishing and sunsetting CIs that will
eliminate the ad hoc ways in which CIs had been established previously,
thereby increasing confidence that NOAA is a credible manager of its
extramural funds. For the first time, there is a NOAA policy in place to
establish both Northern Gulf of Mexico and Great Lakes CIs. The existing
CIs will be competed on a per-Institute basis through 2010, the first of
which will be awarded in January 2007.

***What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?***

Once all of the NOAA CIs are competed and awarded under the new policy,
the long-term impact is expected to be several-fold: 1) potentially
hundreds of thousands of dollars saved in indirect cost rates paid to
universities and new university cost sharing requirements; 2) increased
flexibility in selecting universities and consortia to support NOAA's
mission; 3) more regionally-based CIs that act as a focal point for
NOAA's ecosystem approaches to management; and 4) increased ability to
'find' the right research to support NOAA's mission.

***Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?***

Federal agencies and bureaus are always looking for new and better ways
to enter into agreements with external partners such as universities.
NOAA's new CI policy is a new model for similar partnerships in other
federal areas.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?***

No. However, creation of a more competitive university research
environment will lead to creative scientific solutions to the Nation's
environmental problems.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how?***

The accomplishment resulted in a major advancement in organizational
efficiency. By reexamining its CI process and policy from top to bottom,
NOAA is looking beyond just competing long-standing cooperative
agreements and saving tax dollars. It is also looking at how a CI
consortia can make the job of tapping the best research and development
for NOAA's needs far easier; how we can structure the CIs to meet the
needs of One NOAA; and how the CIs can be better utilized in a regional
context for efforts, such as ecosystem-based management.

> **James Churnside Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**OAR**

**Nomination \# 68**

**NOAA Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Demonstration Team**

**Individuals in the Nominated Group:**

James H. Churnside, ZP-1310-V, Physicist, OAR/Earth System Research
Laboratory

James W. Elkins, ZP-1310-V, Physicist, OAR/Earth System Research
Laboratory

David W. Fahey, ZP-1310-V, Physicist, OAR/Earth System Research
Laboratory

Albin J. Gasiewski, ZP-0855-V, Retired , OAR/Earth System Research
Laboratory

Samuel J. Oltmans, ZP-1310-V, Physicist, OAR/Earth System Research
Laboratory

Karen H. Rosenlof, ZP-1340-IV, Meteorologist, OAR/Earth System Research
Laboratory

Sara Summers, ZP-1301-IV, Physical Scientist, OAR/Earth System Research
Laboratory

Michael L. Aslaksen, Jr., GS-1370-15, Cartographer , NOS/National
Geodetic Survey

Jon D. Sellars, GS-1370-11, Cartographer, NOS/National Geodetic Survey

Todd A. Jacobs, GS- 1310-14, Physicist, NOS/ National Marine Sanctuary
Program

**Prior Awards:**

Churnside- U.S. Department of Commerce Silver Medal, 2004, 'for
Ghostnets.'

Elkins- U.S. Department of Commerce Silver Medal, December 1997, 'for
outstanding research related to man-made, ozone-destroying gases.'

Fahey- U. S. Department of Commerce Silver, December 1996, 'for
leadership in making the first direct measurements of supersonic
aircraft emissions and analyzing the atmospheric implications.'

Aslaksen- U.S. Department of Commerce Gold Medal, 2002, 'for imagery of
the

World Trade Center after September 11, 2001.'

**Nominated by: Dr. Daniel L. Albritton, Acting Director (current), NOAA
Earth System Research Laboratory and**

> **Dr. Alexander E. MacDonald, Acting Director (as of February 12,
> 2006), NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory**

***What is the significance of this accomplishment:*** The UAS
Demonstration Team has established that crewless aircraft are an
important tool for achieving NOAA's research and monitoring goals.

**[Certificate](http://www.rdc.noaa.gov/~hrmo/medaltextlimitations.htm)
Citation:** For demonstrating the usefulness of unmanned aircraft
systems in accomplishing NOAA's mission, including operational and
research goals.

[**Program Booklet
Text:**](http://www.rdc.noaa.gov/~hrmo/medaltextlimitations.htm#Program Text)
For their contribution to the success of the NOAA UAS Demonstration,
using the Altair UAS and culminating with a record-breaking 18.4-hour
flight along the West Coast on 15 November 2005. They also demonstrated
that the UAS could conduct climate, ocean color, meteorological
monitoring and research, along with marine mammal population studies,
undetected surveillance of ships, and coastal mapping, all on one
flight. UAS platforms have the potential to reduce risks to pilots,
reduce costs, and offer missions of longer duration than currently
available with crewed aircraft.

**Section 1 -- Definitions**

**Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)** is the term preferred by the US
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to describe crewless aircraft that
can be used in the national air space. UAS technology is a seamless
combination of an autonomous aircraft, redundant control systems,
high-speed satellite and radio communication and control.

**National Air Space (NAS) --** Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
definition for controlled airspace within the United States. FAA has
strict rules for unmanned aircraft operating within the NAS.

**Section 2 - Award Justification:**

***What was the specific goal, challenge, or problem related to the
Department's mission***

***and/or strategic plan?***

Because UAS platforms have the potential to reduce risks to pilots,
reduce costs, and

offer missions of longer duration than currently available with crewed
aircraft, it was

decided to determine if a UAS could serve NOAA's four mission goals on
coordinated

missions. Specific goals were to conduct climate, ocean color, and
meteorological

monitoring and research, along with marine mammal population studies,
undetected

surveillance of ships, and coastal mapping on the same flights.

***What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge, or problem?***

The 2006 Annual Guidance Memorandum from the Undersecretary of Commerce
for

Oceans and Atmosphere advocates the use of new technologies, including
crewless

aircraft, to achieve the goals of NOAA's Strategic Plan. NOAA's
Strategic Goals are

related to Climate, Ecosystems, Weather and Water, Commerce and
Transportation, and

Mission Support. The concept with which the nominees addressed the
problem was that

of "*one NOAA",* in which individuals from different organizations
within NOAA

combined their expertise and resources to achieve a specific and
unprecedented goal

***What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge, or problem?***

The nominees were involved in every aspect of the project, including
management,

logistics, scientific research, operational requirements, and liaison
with the lead agency

for the Altair UAS platform (NASA) and the contractor (General
Atomics-Aeronautical

Systems, Inc.). All payload instruments acquired high-quality data on
all project flights,

a visible testament to the hard work and skill of the group.

***What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
quantitative terms?***

The project addressed NOAA operational goals with flights over the
Channel Islands

National Marine Sanctuary to survey marine mammals, to perform a coastal
survey

similar to those conducted by the National Geodetic Survey, and to
conduct undetected

surveillance of ocean vessels and their activities. High altitude
(43,000 ft) flights over

the eastern Pacific Ocean addressed NOAA's scientific goals by (i)
making correlative

measurements of greenhouse and ozone depleting gases in the vicinity of
the NOAA

Atmospheric Baseline Observatory at Trinidad Head, CA, (ii) profiling
water vapor in

moisture flows ('atmospheric rivers') from the tropical regions that can
cause flooding

and mud slides in California, and (iii) making remote measurement of
chlorophyll-a in

ocean surface waters in order to improve satellite retrievals for
monitoring ocean

productivity.

**Section 3 - Additional Information.**

***How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment***

***completed/implemented/deployed?***

The NOAA UAS project began in late 2004 with planning meetings among the

participants, which included managers, principal investigators and their
teams, and

aircraft operations personnel. Project operations were completed in
November 2005 with

the final two project flights. Analyses of flight data and final reports
will be completed in

early 2006.

***What is the short-term impact (1-2 years); of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?***

In the short term, the success of the project provides NOAA with a model
of how UAS

operations can directly address specific, integrated needs within its
broad array of

scientific and operational duties.

***What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?***

In the longer term, the success of this project will

improve NOAA's efficiency and enhance NOAA's knowledge and experience
base for

making important decisions on the use of these systems as part of NOAA's
fleet.

***Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies?***

***If so, how?***

The success of the project will help inform a variety of groups within
NOAA

(atmosphere, fisheries, geodesy, ecosystems) about the strengths and
weaknesses of UAS

technology. Because NASA was a major partner in the project, the success
of the effort

also will be of value to aeronautic and scientific groups within NASA in
a manner similar

to that for NOAA.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or***

***automation? If so, how?***

The UAS project represents a major advancement in the directed use of
new technology

to achieve scientific and operational objectives. The pieces (UAS,
instrument

technologies, NOAA objectives) had existed separately before this
project. The project

brought the pieces together to achieve an outcome that meets the
collective goals of the

agencies involved and paves the way for significant improvement in how
NOAA

conducts its research in the future.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific research***

***areas as customer service or administrative support? If so, how?***

The success of the cooperation within and among agencies is a template
for future use of

the NAS by UAS platforms. This project required a high degree of
cooperation among

NOAA, NASA, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The
complexity of the

requested flight operations required the FAA and its regional centers to
accommodate

unconventional use of the NAS by a new platform. The FAA ultimately
approved the

Certificate of Authorization that allowed the UAS platform to operate in
the NAS.

**Melissa Free Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Scientific/Engineering Achievement**

**OAR**

**Nomination \# 69**

**Radiosonde Atmospheric Temperature Products for Assessing Climate
(RATPAC)**

**Individuals in the Nominated Group:**

Melissa P. Free OAR/Air Resources Laboratory

Dian J. Seidel OAR/Air Resources Laboratory

John R. Lanzante OAR/Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory

Imke Durre NESDIS/National Climatic Data Center

Jay H. Lawrimore NESDIS/National Climatic Data Center

Thomas C. Peterson NESDIS/National Climatic Data Center

**Nominated by: Bruce B. Hicks, Director, Air Resources Laboratory and**

**Thomas R. Karl, Director, National Climatic Data Center**

***What is the significance of this accomplishment?***

New atmospheric temperature datasets covering the past half century and
suitable for climate monitoring are now publicly available and are being
used in national and international climate assessments.

**Certificate Citation:** For developing research-quality radiosonde
atmospheric temperature datasets for reliably monitoring climate
variations and change.

**Program Booklet Text:** The group is honored for developing a new set
of upper-air temperature data products based on radiosonde observations
for the past half century. They have removed artificial temperature
changes related to instrument changes, created datasets that are
suitable for climate research and monitoring, described and analyzed the
data in two journal articles, made the datasets freely available, and
contributed to major international and national climate assessments.
Their efforts address a key climate controversy and significantly
advance NOAA's mission to understand climate variability and change.

**Section 1 - Definitions**

**CCSP** -- the U.S. Climate Change Science Program. The first CCSP
Synthesis and Assessment Product (1.1) is entitled "Temperature Trends
in the Lower Atmosphere: Steps for Understanding and Reconciling
Differences" and scheduled for release in early 2006.

**IPCC** -- Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change -- an
international climate assessment activity providing scientific
information to the public and policy makers

**Radiosonde** -- an instrument package carried aloft by balloon and
that sends upper-air weather observations back to the observing station
by radio transmission

**RATPAC** -- Radiosonde Atmospheric Temperature Products for Assessing
Climate

**Upper-air** -- the atmosphere above the surface of the Earth,
including the troposphere and stratosphere

**Section 2 -- Award Justification**

***What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?***

The goal of RATPAC is to provide upper-air temperature data products for
climate analysis, directly supporting NOAA's mission to "Understand
Climate Variability and Change to Enhance Society\'s Ability to Plan and
Respond", particularly these two performance objectives:

-   "Describe and understand the state of the climate system through
    integrated observations, analysis, and data stewardship"

-   "Increase the number and use of climate products and services to
    enhance public and private sector decision-making"

***What was the context in which the nominees addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?***

The team removed a major uncertainty from historical global radiosonde
temperature observations needed to address a key climate science
question: "Is the atmosphere above the Earth's surface warming?"
Existing radiosonde measurements could not be used to reliably determine
global climate variations because instrument changes introduced errors
that could mask real temperature variability. RATPAC scientifically
corrected the data to remove the effect of changing instruments, thereby
creating a research-quality dataset spanning back to the 1950's,
pre-dating satellite observations by several decades.

***What specific actions did the nominees take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?***

-   Identified and removed errors (due to instrumentation) in radiosonde
    temperature data

-   Created regional and global temperature datasets to monitor
    long-term atmospheric temperature changes

-   Implemented automatic dataset updating for rapid public
    dissemination of current information

***What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?***

These high-quality data are used in two major climate assessments (the
IPCC Fourth Assessment Report and the first CCSP assessment), are
available online, and are documented in two refereed journal articles.
One presents an innovative method for removing errors and evaluates
uncertainties: a second presents the datasets and analysis, including
temperature trends over the past half century.

**Section 3 - Additional Information**

***How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?***

The project was a 3.5 year effort, culminating in public access to the
datasets in 2005. Data continue to be maintained and updated.

***What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
the bureau and/or Department's mission?***

The major impact was use of the data in two key climate assessments,
contributing directly to the NOAA goals and objectives (above). Public
interest in the CCSP report was clearly demonstrated by the large number
of public comments. The high-quality data produced by the team were
essential to the credibility of this assessment.

***What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?***

The datasets are helping build national and international scientific
consensus on the controversial issue of temperature trends, which will
result in more rigor in making decisions that impact national economy.
This research will also help NOAA develop an integrated observing system
to meet climate requirements and address its goal to "improve the
quality and quantity of climate observations, analyses, interpretation,
and archiving by maintaining a consistent climate record and by
improving our ability to determine why changes are taking place".

***Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?***

Climate policy depends on sound science, and data used to assess
controversial climate change issues must withstand considerable
scrutiny. Every Department and agency, indeed all aspects of the U.S.
and global economy, are affected by climate policy decisions, which in
turn depend on reliable data and assessments of climate change.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?***

Yes. Errors in temperature trends from radiosondes were recognized for a
decade but not addressed because of the complexity of the problem and
lack of robust methods. With the development of RATPAC (and one spinoff
product by U.K. scientists), and the resulting improved understanding of
radiosonde data problems and uncertainty in temperature trends, much
more sophisticated climate research is feasible, including comparison
with the shorter satellite records and climate models.

***Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative support?
If so, how?***

Because the automatically updated datasets are available through the
web, data users now, for the first time, have easy access to current
climate-quality upper-air data.

**CORPORATE OFFICE NOMINATIONS**

**Rainer Dombrowsky Group**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Administrative/Technical Support**

**CIO**

**Nomination \# 70**

**1. Type of Award:** Gold

**2. Nomination Type:** Group

**3. Nomination Category:** Administrative/Technical Support

**4. Name of Nominee:** Rainer N. Dombrowsky

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** DOM-BROW-SKEE

**Title**: NOAA Liaison -- Homeland Security Operations Center

**Series and Grade:** GS-1301-15

**Address:** 3801 Nebraska Avenue, Building 3

Washington, D.C.,

202-282-9937

**Name of Nominee:** Albert H. Mongeon

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** MUN-GEN

**Title**: Analyst, NWS Homeland Security Activities

**Series and Grade:** GS-0343-13

**Address:** National Weather Service

1325 East West Highway, Room 16130

Silver Spring, MD 20910

301-713-1825x122

**Name of Nominee:** Amy E. Holman

**Salutation:** Ms.

**Pronunciation:** HOLE-MAN

**Title**: Program Analyst

**Series and Grade:** GS-0343-13

**Address:** 1305 East West Highway, Room 10125

Silver Spring, MD 20910

**Name of Nominee:** Cecile R. Daniels

**Salutation:** Lieutenant Commander

**Pronunciation:** DAN-IELS

**Title**: Lieutenant Commander, NOAA Corps

**Series and Grade:** Lieutenant Commander

**Address:** 1315 East West Highway, Room 12105

Silver Spring, MD 20910

301-713-3444 x212

**Name of Nominee:** Michele G. Bullock

**Salutation:** Commander.

**Pronunciation:** BULL-LOCK

**Title**: Commander, NOAA Corps

**Series and Grade:** Commander

**Address:** 1315 East West Highway, Room 12172

Silver Spring, MD 20910

301-713-1045 x175

**Name of Nominee:** Regis J. Walter

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** WALL-TER

**Title**: Meteorologist

**Series and Grade:** ZP4-13

**Address:** 5200 Auth Road

Camp Springs, MD 20746

301- 763-8444

**Name of Nominee:** Paul T. Reilly

**Salutation:** Mr.

**Pronunciation:** RYE-LEE

**Title**: Oceanographer

**Series and Grade:** GS-1360-13

**Address:** 1315 East-West Highway, Room

Silver Spring, MD 20910

301-713-2981 x122

**5. Past Awards --**

Dombrowsky -- NOAA Bronze Medal Awarded in 1995 (group)

Mongeon -- NOAA Bronze Medal Awarded in 1993 (group)

-- NOAA Bronze Medal Awarded in 1996 (group)

Holman -- Administrator's Award, 2004 (Group)

Daniels -- None

Bullock -- Administrator's Award 2001 (Group)

Walter -- NOAA Bronze Medal Awarded 1991(Group Branch Award)

> -- DOC Bronze Medal Awarded 1995 (Group Branch Award)
>
> -- DOC Bronze Medal Awarded 2000 (Group Branch Award)

Reilly -- None

**6. Current Performance Rating:** Pass for all nominees

**7. Nominator's Name, Title, complete office address, and phone
number:**

Captain Philip M. Kenul, Director

NOAA, Homeland Security Program Office

1315 East West Highway, Room 10846

Telephone: (301)713-3311

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

**Place here - This question (response limited to 200 characters) is
designed to give an overview of the importance of the contribution. The
response should focus on the value of the accomplishment in concrete,
results‑oriented terms. Total Used = 196**

The group established a NOAA presence within the Homeland Security
Operations Center providing timely in-depth situational awareness
reporting as it relates to natural and human induced disasters.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

**Place here (maximum of 150 characters). Total Used = 117**

For outstanding services provided to the Department of Homeland Security
in its response to the 2005 Hurricane Season.

**[II. Program Text:]{.underline}**

**Place here (maximum of 600 characters). Total used = 569**

During the 2005 Hurricane Season, desk officers provided situational
awareness briefings to the HSOC on all tropical cyclones affecting the
U.S. or U.S. interests. Prior to landfall, NOAA desk hours of operation
are expanded to 24/7. During these periods of expanded coverage, desk
officers provided routine updates, interim updates for significant
changes, and responded to numerous inquiries from the DHS Secretary's
office and the White House during Katrina, Rita and Wilma. The desk
remains at this level until such time that the HSOC stands down from the
incident.Number range CHAPTER

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**[Section 1 - Definitions:]{.underline}**

***NOAA*** -- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

***POC*** -- Point of Contact

***HSOC*** -- Homeland Security Operations Center

***DHS*** -- Department of Homeland Security

***NSSE*** -- National Special Security Events are special events as
determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with
other Federal departments and agencies.

***Incident of National Significance*** -- As described in Homeland
Security Presidential Directive -5, any of four criteria must be met
before DHS responds to a domestic incident.

***Catastrophic Incidents*** -- A catastrophic incident is any natural
of manmade incident, including terrorism, resulting in extraordinary
levels of mass casualties, damage, or disruption severely affecting
population, infrastructure, environment, economy, national morale,
and/or government functions.

***NOAA HSPO*** -- NOAA Homeland Security Program Office.

***NOAA LO*** -- NOAA Line Office

**[Section 2 - Award Justification:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all four questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.)
**Total Used = 1985**

-   **What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
    Department's mission/or Strategic Plan?** Under the broad scope of
    the National Response Plan, the NOAA desk officers needed to acquire
    an understanding of HSOC operations. From this understanding,
    procedures were developed for briefing, coordination and effective
    communication with other Federal agencies, supporting a unified
    Federal response to catastrophic incidents. DHS has noted that
    NOAA's presence within the HSOC has significantly improved
    situational awareness relating to natural or manmade incidents,
    including terrorism. (Used 494)

-   **What was the context in which the nominees addressed the goal,
    challenge, or problem?** NOAA staff routinely assesses HSOC needs
    and has been able to modify their delivery of information as HSOC
    requirements change. The introduction of this diverse group of NOAA
    employees to the HSOC has provided HSOC management with a better
    overall understanding of NOAA's roles, responsibilities and
    capabilities. When the HSOC expresses new needs or requires changes
    to on-going support, members collaboratively define HSOC support
    requirements which are subsequently submitted to the HSPO for
    consideration. (Used 510)

-   **What specific actions did the nominees take to address the goal,
    challenge or problem?** Each of the NOAA Line Office (LO)
    representatives on the watch officer team has learned the roles,
    responsibilities and capabilities of each LO to better understand
    how a unified NOAA can best support a proactive Federal response.
    Each team member has shared their knowledge and talents, both within
    the NOAA family and the HSOC. Collectively, this group of experts
    has established and continues to build the knowledge base by which
    the NOAA desk officers support the HSOC and other DHS elements.
    (Used 497)

-   **What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
    qualitative terms?** The actions of the team during the past year
    and especially during the 2005 Hurricane season can be quantified by
    the frequent acknowledgements from satisfied Federal partners in the
    information and/or services provided by or through the NOAA desk
    officers. These messages, verbal and written, speak volumes to how
    successful and necessary the NOAA Desk has become to HSOC
    operations. The group has truly succeeded in earning customer
    confidence and providing customer satisfaction. (Used 484)

**[Section 3 - Additional Information:]{.underline}** (Maximum number of
characters for all six questions in this section cannot exceed 2000.)
**Total Used = 1955**

-   **How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
    accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?** The establishment
    of a NOAA presence within the HSOC required several months to
    initially set up and train. NOAA continues to improve standard
    operating procedures through periodic reviews and updates in
    response to changes in HSOC operational procedures. (255)

-   **What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?** In the short-term, the
    greatest impact from this accomplishment points to a greater
    understanding of the NOAA's mission and capabilities. By presenting
    NOAA as a unified agency with a broad range of roles,
    responsibilities and capabilities, NOAA now plays a significant role
    in DHS/HSOC incident response. (307)

-   **What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on
    the bureau and/or Department's mission?** Based on short-term
    results, one can foresee NOAA ultimately playing a larger role in
    supporting HSOC operations from disaster response through disaster
    recovery. (163)

-   **Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
    Federal agencies? If so, how?** The accomplishment affects more than
    40 Federal and law enforcement agencies under the HSOC umbrella.
    Sharing of information within the HSOC has led to an increased
    awareness of NOAA and DOC capabilities by HSOC leadership and other
    Federal Departments and Agencies as evidenced in the number of tasks
    to NOAA during the past year, especially during the 2005 Hurricane
    Season and other NSSE. (391)

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
    technology, or automation? If so, how?** As the need for information
    grew, more frequent situational updates were needed. This required
    improvements in information delivery to the NOAA Desk. Once
    identified, the need was presented to the HSPO Director who in turn
    presented the problem to the NOAA Homeland Security Senior
    Management Team. This resulted in the NOAA Desk acquiring the needed
    capabilities from within NOAA which were added to the operational
    capabilities of the NOAA Desk. The new telecommunications capability
    provides the NOAA Desk with immediate updates related to watches,
    warnings, alerts, and statements during rapidly changing all-hazards
    incidents. (633)

-   **Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in
    non-scientific areas such as customer service or administrative
    support? If so, how?** The provision of incident watch reporting
    delivered by NOAA has provided increased visibility for the
    Department of Commerce through elevated customer confidence and
    resulting in high customer satisfaction. (206)

**Office of the Federal Coordinator for Meteorological Services and
Supporting Research**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**OFCM**

**Nomination \# 71**

1\. Full name of nominee(s): The Office of the Federal Coordinator for
Meteorological Services and Supporting Research (OFCM).

2\. Major Line or Staff Office for each nominee (NWS, NESDIS, etc.):
Office of the Under Secretary.

3\. Position title and grade for each nominee (see #1 above): This is an
organizational award.

4\. [Past
awards](http://www.wfm.noaa.gov/awards/admin_award/awards_history.html)
(excluding Cash-in-Your-Account and Special Act Awards) for each
nominee: OFCM has not received any prior organizational awards or
gold/silver medals.

5\. Nominator's name and major Line or Staff Office: Samuel P.
Williamson, OFCM.

**[What is the significance of this accomplishment?]{.underline}**

OFCM efforts led to superb weather support during the historic 2005
hurricane season. Additionally, OFCM's continuous, focused work was the
catalyst for first-ever Federal surface weather programs.

**[I. Certificate Text]{.underline}**

For outstanding contributions to the Nation's hurricane forecast and
warning program and the surface transportation weather program.

**[II. Program Text (Citation)]{.underline}**

OFCM is honored for its major contributions to hurricane forecast and
warning operations and to the surface transportation weather program.
OFCM's annual Interdepartmental Hurricane Conference and the National
Hurricane Operations Plan directly led to outstanding hurricane
operations during the historic 2005 season. Additionally, OFCM developed
a one-of-a-kind surface transportation weather needs assessment report.
That report, along with other focused efforts, was the catalyst of
Federal surface weather programs aimed at providing vital safety
information to the public and decision makers.

**III. Justification**

**Section 1 - Definitions**

-   DOD Department of Defense

-   DOT Department of Transportation

-   FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency

-   FHWA Federal Highway Administration

-   IHC Interdepartmental Hurricane Conference

-   ITS America Intelligent Transportation Society of America

-   MOU Memorandum of Understanding

-   NHC National Hurricane Center

-   NHOP National Hurricane Operations Plan

-   NHTSA National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

-   NOAA The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

-   NWS National Weather Service

-   OFCM The Office of the Federal Coordinator for Meteorological
    Services

and Supporting Research

-   R&D Research and Development

-   TSB The Transportation Research Board

-   TWC The Weather Channel

-   WIST Weather Information for Surface Transportation

**Section 2 - Award Justification**

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

OFCM addressed challenges in two critical mission areas. For hurricane
operations, the challenge was to improve hurricane forecast and warning
services to the Nation; for WIST, it was to set a WIST vision, to
continually press for increased National awareness, with the ultimate
goal of reducing weather-caused surface transportation injuries/deaths.

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

In both cases, OFCM worked with federal partners to address the
challenges, conducting conferences, workshops, and symposia to reach out
to federal/state/local/academic/private-sector partners.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

OFCM has made the IHC a strong coordinating framework to provide
ever-increasing levels of service to the Nation. After extensive
planning, the 59^th^ IHC, held in March 2005, brought NOAA and the other
Federal agencies together, including the user communities---200+
attendees in all---to review and improve the Nation's hurricane forecast
and warning program. Agency recommendations were incorporated into the
43^rd^ edition of the NHOP---the sole interagency authoritative
document---that led to outstanding operational support during the
historic 2005 hurricane season. In December 2002, OFCM set the WIST
vision and published the ground-breaking WIST National Needs Assessment
report that was endorsed by the DOT Undersecretary for Policy and was
the catalyst for the July 2005 NOAA/FHWA MOU, strengthening the two
agencies' working relationships and validating WIST as a formal program.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

While 1300+ deaths were associated with Hurricane Katrina, according to
a simulated FEMA hurricane exercise the death toll could have been
60,000+. The House Select Bipartisan Committee report concerning Katrina
stated: "The accuracy and timeliness of NWS and NHC forecasts prevented
further loss of life"---a tribute to the IHC/NHOP process. OFCM has
developed, with its federal partners, WIST requirements-driven
initiatives to further reduce transportation injuries/fatalities.

**Section 3 - Additional Information**

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

OFCM established the IHC/NHOP framework, an annual process, for agencies
to evaluate the lessons learned from the previous hurricane season and
translate them into improved warning services. For WIST, it took 4 years
to complete the exhaustive review which led to the baseline WIST
National Needs Assessment report.

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

In the short term, OFCM is planning the 60^th^ IHC to capitalize on the
2005 lessons learned to further improve operations and save lives. The
WIST report provided the foundation for Federal surface weather
programs. The report, coupled with OFCM's participation in 12
conferences/ symposia over the last 4 years (such as ITS America & TSB),
increased National WIST awareness and entwined weather and traffic
information at TV/radio stations nationwide, including TWC.

**What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

For the long term, OFCM is working with its partner agencies to complete
a strategic hurricane R&D plan for the next decade. The goal---reduce
the impact of landfalling storms and save lives. As OFCM-coordinated
WIST R&D initiatives are implemented, the long-term impact will be to
foster technological innovation, enhance standards for WIST, increase
economic growth through greater transportation efficiencies, and further
reduce transportation injuries/deaths. According to NHTSA 2004 figures,
weather-related traffic fatalities and injuries decreased \~5% since the
WIST report was published.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

Federal agencies benefit, based on their missions, from the synergy
realized by participating in the OFCM's federal coordinating
infrastructure, regarding programs like hurricane warnings and WIST.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

WIST has helped establish a new academic discipline, leading to
advancements in science and technology.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how? **

Improved hurricane warnings enhance customer service, while saving lives
and reducing property damage. For a typical season, it is estimated that
savings reach \$3 billion. WIST greatly influenced the incorporation of
weather into 511, America's Traveler Information Telephone Number,
directly improving customer service.

**John Villemarette Group**

**Gold Medal Nomination**

**Administrative/Technical Support**

**CIO/AGO**

**Nomination \# 72**

**Name:** Grants Online Team

Nominees:

+----------------+----------------+----------------+-----------------+
| **Nominee      | **Title and    | **Office**     | **Past Awards** |
| Name**         | Grade**        |                |                 |
+----------------+----------------+----------------+-----------------+
| John           | Director, ISMO | OCIO           | Bronze Award    |
| Villemarette   |                |                | 2006            |
+----------------+----------------+----------------+-----------------+
| Steve Drescher | Grants Policy  | AGO            |                 |
|                | Advisor GS-14  |                |                 |
+----------------+----------------+----------------+-----------------+
| Lillian Barnes | IT Specialist  | OCIO           | Special Act     |
|                | GS-14          |                | 2005            |
+----------------+----------------+----------------+-----------------+
| Sinh Nguyen    | IT Specialist  | OCIO           | Special Act     |
|                | GS-12          |                | 2005            |
+----------------+----------------+----------------+-----------------+
| Ken Sragg      | IT Specialist  | Transferred to |                 |
|                |                | Census         |                 |
|                | GS-14          |                |                 |
+----------------+----------------+----------------+-----------------+
| Marc Tolson    | IT Specialist  | OCIO           |                 |
|                |                |                |                 |
|                | GS-14          |                |                 |
+----------------+----------------+----------------+-----------------+
| Chris Suzich   | IT Specialist  | OCIO           |                 |
|                |                |                |                 |
|                | GS-14          |                |                 |
+----------------+----------------+----------------+-----------------+
|                |                |                |                 |
+----------------+----------------+----------------+-----------------+

**Nominator and Office:** Carl Staton

NOAA Office of the CIO

Helen Hurcombe

Acquisition and Grants Office

**Significance of This Accomplishment:**

The development and implementation of the Grants Online system
represents the establishment of the first NOAA wide grants system,
replacing 12 existing systems, interfacing with E.GOV portal and
processing almost \$1B in grants.

**Certificate Citation:** For developing and implementing an automation
tool to improve the timeliness and quality of financial assistance
awards and administration.

**Program Booklet Citation**:

The group is honored for their excellence in the development and
implementation of one of the

first fully automated financial assistance (grants and cooperative
agreements)award systems.

Grants On-Line project team created a unified system replacing 12
dissimilar grant

making Program Offices within NOAA. This enabled electronically
submitted applications

through the Grants.gov portal to be processed and managed through their
entire grant lifecycle.

NOAA has estimated that it was able to complete four times as much work
at a quarter of the

cost. This technology improved the timeliness, quality and consistency
of these awards

supporting all NOAA missions.

**Section 1 Definitions:**

**None**

**Section 2 -- Award Justification: (2000 Characters)**

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

**1.** To accomplish its mission, NOAA administers a multitude of grants
for weather, ocean exploration, coastal, environment, and satellite
research to state, local, universities, independent research facilities
and individuals. In Fiscal Year 2005, NOAA awarded over 1,900 grants
worth almost one billion dollars (\$1B) representing approximately
one-half of all grants awarded by the Department of Commerce and
constituting approximately one-third of NOAA's annual budget. The number
and value of grant awards in the past five years has doubled. With no
matching increase in personnel resources to handle the increased
workload, an automation solution was sought.

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

**2.** This team was formed to develop a better way of handling the
grants process for NOAA. The team undertook an effort to develop and
implement a fully automated process for processing financial assistance
(grants and cooperative agreements) awards, administering them, and
closing them out. The end goal was to utilize information technology to
improve the timeliness, quality and consistency of these awards in
accordance with the Federal governments E-GOV initiative.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

**3.** NOAA\'s Grants On-Line project team created a unified
requirements baseline for the 12 dissimilar grant making Program Offices
within NOAA that enabled electronically submitted applications through
the Grants.gov portal to be processed and managed through their entire
grant lifecycle. The NOAA Grants Online System has furthered the One
NOAA concept by taking the disparate, largely manual, grants systems and
integrating them into a more effective and efficient whole.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

**4.** The NOAA Grants Online team accomplished the following specific
system objectives:

-   Implemented a single unified grant processing and administrative
    system, using a web-centered solution, to reduce up-front processing
    time for grant application

> pre-award activities;

-   Put a scalable solution in place that could accommodate high volume
    usage;

-   Interfaced the NOAA solution with the government-wide Grants.gov
    Presidential eGovernment initiative to assist in providing
    \"one-stop\" shopping for federal grants and related activities;

-   Standardized NOAA grants business processes to help achieve a more
    effective and efficient use of resources;

-   Provided a direct interface between Grants On-Line and other NOAA
    business systems.

**Section 3.** (Characters 2000)

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

**1.** Project took 3 years

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

**2.** Gartner Group stated: "The project outcome was extremely
successful in terms of meeting its objectives and enabling outstanding
mission performance results. Previously, NOAA expended thirty days of
processing overhead per grant application (online reviews, printing,
emails, postal mailing, copying, reporting, and analysis) plus another
2.2 business days of processing attributable to existing legacy systems
that required re-entry of considerable amounts of data. The Grants
On-Line project reduced this cycle time to approximately 2.2 hours,
freeing up valuable time for program managers and grants specialists to
spend more time reviewing grant applications, negotiating with
applicants, resolving issues regarding legal analyses, and conducting
enterprise-wide analyses of the grants process (such as work load
balancing, trend analysis of processing volume, value, and
performance)."

**What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

**3.** Grants Online, in addition to automating the end-to-end process,
has enabled the agency to long term more effectively manage the one
billion dollar's worth of financial assistance that is processed on a
yearly basis. It provides significant management information to track
progress of awards and performance of the grant after award. This is
helping NOAA to more effectively meet its missions and goals.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

**4**. Grants Online is currently under consideration as a Department of
Commerce solution and has been reviewed by several outside Federal
agencies.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

**5.** Grants Online provided a significant advancement in
administrative and customer support by providing for the first time a
full automated process (from the application for a grant in Grants.gov
to the review and award) replacing several in house manual systems which
only supported part of the process.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how? **

See above answer.

**Janette Labbee Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Customer Service**

**AGO**

**Nomination \# 73**

Nominee - Department of Commerce BankCard Center

+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| **Nominee Name**  | **Title and      | **Office**    | **Past        |
|                   | Grade**          |               | Awards**      |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| Janette M. Labbee | Bankcard Liaison | AGO           | NOAA Employee |
|                   | Officer          |               | of the Year   |
|                   |                  |               | 1993          |
|                   | GS-14            |               |               |
|                   |                  |               | Dept. of      |
|                   |                  |               | Treasury 1994 |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   |                  |               | NOAA Admin    |
|                   |                  |               | 1997          |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   |                  |               | NOAA Bronze   |
|                   |                  |               | 1998          |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   |                  |               | NOAA          |
|                   |                  |               | Diversity     |
|                   |                  |               | Spectrum 2001 |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   |                  |               | NOAA Admin    |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   |                  |               | 2002          |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| Patricia D. Stone | Bankcard Program | AGO           | NOAA Bronze   |
|                   | Specialist       |               | 1998          |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   | GS-11            |               | CASC Employee |
|                   |                  |               | of the Year   |
|                   |                  |               | 2001          |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   |                  |               | NOAA Admin    |
|                   |                  |               | 2002          |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| Donna L. Rimmer   | Bankcard Program | AGO           | NOAA Bronze   |
|                   | Specialist       |               | 1998          |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   | GS-9             |               | NOAA Admin    |
|                   |                  |               | 2002          |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| Kathryn L. Luth   | Bankcard         | AGO           | None          |
|                   | Assistant        |               |               |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   | GS-7             |               |               |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+

**Nominated by Helen Hurcombe**

**Director, Acquisition Management**

**[Significance of Accomplishment]{.underline}**

CBC has served the best interests of the DOC Purchase Card Program for
20 years. CBC has graduated to a highly technical and efficient
organization in support of its customers.

**[I. Certificate Text:]{.underline}**

For recognition of past and present achievements in providing excellent
customer service and support to all SmartPay Program users throughout
the DOC.

**[II. Program Booklet Text:]{.underline}**

CBC has provided exceptional customer service to all DOC bureaus for 20
years contributing to the success of the Purchase Card Program. CBC has
provided value to customers through data management, automation and
continual improvement, saving time, reducing expenses and increasing
revenue for DOC. As a result of CBC's attention to customer service and
detailed oversight, the program continues to expand and secure DOC's
leadership roll within the Government's Smart Card programs.

**[III. Justification:]{.underline}**

**Section 1 -- Definitions/Acronyms**

APC -- Agency Program Coordinators

CAM -- Commerce Acquisition Manual

CAMS -- Commerce Administrative Management System, aka CBS

CBC -- Commerce Bankcard Center

COOP -- Continuity of Operations Plan

DOC -- Department of Commerce

MCC -- Merchant Category Codes

**Section 2 -- Award Justification**

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

The mission of CBC is to provide excellent customer service by
delivering accurate and

timely program information and reporting, centralized data base
management and expansion

of e-commerce in support of the Government Purchase Card Program
worldwide. The four member staff strives to support their mission
continually challenging their performance resulting in successful
program improvement.

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

Technical difficulties in the late 1990s demanded an interface from the
contractor to the CAMS platform. CBC created a purchase card invoice for
all bureau finance offices. This invoice provides account information
and the data transaction file that interfaces with DOC CAMS systems and
three independent finance payment offices. CBC has been a catalyst in
the success of the CAMS Bankcard module since its inception. The CAMS
system was built to accept incoming data on the old Government format.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

With the advancement of technology, the contractor feeds daily files to
the Government agencies in a commercial file format. CBC receives this
data and converts it to usable text for CAMS. Redesigning the commercial
file to fit CAMS would have created great expense and difficulties at a
time when CAMS was rolling out to most DOC agencies.

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

The creation of invoice data at CBC has allowed bureaus to pay CitiBank
timely, avoiding negative audit findings and quadrupled refunds from
CitiBank over the past two years. FY2005 refunds exceeded \$1.3 million.

CBC assists agency Financial Payment Centers at year end by furnishing
daily posted transaction files throughout the month. Cut off dates for
spending varies throughout the cycle and this service allows cardholders
and finance offices early reconciliation for fiscal year end closing.

High on the list of CBC priorities is emergency readiness in times of
disaster as was the case on September 11, 2001 and again in Hurricane
season 2005. A remote telework system based on CBC's COOP plan allows
uninterrupted services to customers.

**Section 3 -- Additional Information**

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

**A period of 24 months to implement Data Mining to assist with
oversight and program management using Discoverer software. CBC staff
work with the APCs, OIG and technical staff to ensure a user friendly
product.**

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

**The short-term impact allows ad hoc queries on various merchant types.
This allows gathering efficient, reliable and secure data to monitor
cardholder spending. It adds an additional layer to check for fraud and
abuse.**

**What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

**The long-term impact of Data Mining results will assist with analyzing
spending trends and reduce much of the labor intensive auditing while
providing speedy and accurate access to vast quantities of
information.**

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

**The Data Mining effort benefits all bureaus within DOC. Results are
shared at conferences and roundtables with other government agencies.**

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

**Utilizing the latest technology in the Discoverer product, and working
with various queries to analyze the most data in the shortest time, has
resulted in a cost effective and time saving method for APCs and CBCto
use in program auditing.**

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how?**

CBC oversight reduces APC workload, consolidates oversight, assisting
OIG investigations and is compliant with the paper reduction act. DOC is
one of the few agencies with internal Data Mining capabilities.
Conducting this level of oversight continues to support DOC's elevated
status as a leader in the SmartPay Program management.

**Jeanie Jennings Group**

**Silver Medal Nomination**

**Personal and Professional Excellence**

**CAO/AGO**

**Nomination \# 74**

**Name: NOAA Project Planning and Acquisition Response Team for
Hurricane Katrina** (see attached list)

+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| **Nominee Name**  | **Title and      | **Office**    | **Past        |
|                   | Grade**          |               | Awards**      |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| Jeanie M.         | Supervisory      | AGO/CRAD      |               |
| Jennings          | Contract         |               |               |
|                   | Specialist - GS  |               |               |
|                   | 15               |               |               |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| Donita McCullough | Supervisory      | AGO/CRAD      | Bronze 2003   |
|                   | Contract         |               |               |
|                   | Specialist - GS  |               |               |
|                   | 14               |               |               |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| Carey Marlow      | Contract         | AGO/CRAD      |               |
|                   | Specialist       |               |               |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   | GS 09            |               |               |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| Jason Manthey     | General Engineer | OCAO/RPFLO/   |               |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   | GS 13            | PPMD          |               |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| Michael L.        | Architect        | OCAO/RPFLO/   |               |
| Randall           |                  |               |               |
|                   | GS 13            | PPMD          |               |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| Jerry A. Britton  | General Engineer | OCAO/RPFLO/   | Silver 1998   |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   | GS 13            | PPMD          |               |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| Robben McWilliams | Architect        | OCAO/RPFLO/   |               |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   | GS 13            | PPMD          |               |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| John Battle       | Architect        | OCAO/RPFLO/   |               |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   | GS 12            | PPMD          |               |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| Michele A. Riley  | General Engineer | OCAO/RPFLO/   |               |
|                   |                  |               |               |
|                   | GS 13            | PPMD          |               |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+
| Roger McCollum    | Supervisory      | OCAO/RPFLO/   |               |
|                   | General          |               |               |
|                   | Engineer - GS 14 | PPMD          |               |
+-------------------+------------------+---------------+---------------+

**Nominator and Office:** William F. Broglie

NOAA Office of the Chief Administrative Officer

Helen Hurcombe

Acquisition and Grants Office

**Significance of This Accomplishment:**

The SEFSC lab was restored to operation less than three months after
Katrina -- this would normally take over a year. SEFSC resumed NMFS's
mission of protecting America's resources with minimum delay.

**I. Certificate Text:**

For outstanding service in support of the NOAA Pascagoula laboratory
recovery effort.

**II. Program Booklet Test:**

The group is honored for providing rapid, expert assistance to the staff
of the Pascagoula Lab in the Wake of Hurricane Katrina. With the group's
assistance, the SEFSC lab was able to move into temporary housing just
70 days after the Storm, hastening their return to operations. Their
rapid mobilization and deployment to the storm-affected area
significantly reduced the amount of time required to get the lab into
housing and back to operations. Their coordinated efforts minimized the
time that the SEFSC was out of commission, and reduced the risk this
closure posed to America's fisheries.

**III. Justification:**

**Section 1 - Definitions**

SEFSC -- The Southeast Fisheries Service Center, part of the Pascagoula
Lab.

NMFS -- National Marine Fisheries Service

NSIL -- National Seafood Inspection Laboratory

AGO -- Acquisitions and Grants Office

CAO -- Chief Administrative Officer

CRAD -- Central Region Acquisition Division

RPFLO -- Real Property Facilities and Logistics Office

PPMD -- Project Planning and Management Division

ER -- Eastern Region

**Section 2 - Award Justification**

**What was the specific goal, challenge or problem related to the
Department's mission and/or strategic plan?**

-   Hurricane Katrina shut down all operations at the Pascagoula Lab
    which contains the SEFSC and NSIL. With these two tenants out of
    service, the Lab was unable to perform it's key missions of
    supporting large marine ecosystems programs performing fishery
    research, collecting and reporting on statistical data, controlling
    and operating Center data management support systems, developing the
    scientific information base required for fishery resource
    conservation, fishery development and utilization, habitat
    conservation, and protection of marine mammals and endangered
    species.

**What was the context in which the nominee addressed the goal,
challenge or problem?**

-   Following the September 1, 2005 directive from AGO and CAO, CRAD and
    RPFLO/PPMD ER immediately established a cross functional team to
    aggressively pursue acquisition and facility requirements needed to
    provide temporary facilities for Line Office staff affected by the
    hurricane. Team members traveled to the damaged sites to conduct a
    first-hand needs assessment and perform other critical actions
    necessary to restore functionality to NOAA labs and offices.

**What specific actions did the nominee take to address the goal,
challenge or problem?**

-   The Nominees Specific Actions in supporting this efforts included
    but were not limited to:

    -   Acquisition Actions totaling approximately \$4.0M

    -   The lease or purchase of twelve modular building units

    -   Construction of new and temporary office space for 100
        employees, occupied November 6, 2005.

    -   Purchase of 140 sets of office furniture

    -   The lease of four storage trailers including two refrigerated
        units for wet documents.

    -   The rebuilding of ship support electrical and dockside
        connections.

    -   The design of temporary lab and office facilities including
        construction work estimated in excess of \$1M

**What were the results of the actions in either quantifiable or
qualitative terms?**

-   As a direct result of the nominee's efforts, Lab employees were
    moved into temporary space on November 6, 2005. This is only seventy
    days after the lab was struck by the most destructive natural
    disaster in U.S. history. The speed of this response accelerated the
    return of the lab to performing its missions of protecting America's
    maritime resources.

**Section 3 - Additional Information**

**How long did it take to complete the accomplishment? When was the
accomplishment completed/implemented/deployed?**

-   The Cross functional team was formed on September 1, 2005, and the
    first workers moved into their temporary workspace on November 6,
    2005 -- 70 days after the Hurricane, and 68 days after the formation
    of the team. It should be noted that while the initial effort to
    restore lab operations has been completed, the task is ongoing as
    members of the team work towards the full recovery of the lab which
    will take several years.

**What is the short-term impact (1-2 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

-   The short term impact of this accomplishment is that the SEFSC was
    able to return to operations more quickly, minimizing the amount of
    time spent away from NMFS's core missions protecting America's
    maritime resources.

**What is the long-term impact (3-5 years) of the accomplishment on the
bureau and/or Department's mission?**

-   The long term impact of this accomplishment is that the SEFSC lost
    less time away from it's mission. Going forward, SEFSC is now able
    to support efforts to assess the long term damage to fisheries from
    Katrina while continuing it's core missions.

**Does the accomplishment affect other bureaus/Department or other
Federal agencies? If so, how?**

-   This accomplishment deals with NOAA personnel and assets, and does
    not impact other Bureaus, Departments or Federal Agencies.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in science,
technology, or automation? If so, how?**

-   This accomplishment was aided by the advanced communications
    capability provided by the acquisition of a satellite phone, which
    provided critical communications during the early phase of the
    recovery, when local communications infrastructure was nonexistent.

**Did the accomplishment result in a major advancement in non-scientific
areas such as customer service or administrative support? If so, how? **

-   This accomplishment raised the bar for NOAA customer service,
    providing immediate on site customer support during the initial
    phase, transitioning to long term support for full mission recovery.