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In a June 29 ceremony held at The ÃØÃÜÖ±²¥ University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), in Laurel, Md., air defense expert Richard Constantine was presented the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award, the Navy's highest civilian honor. Rear Adm. Kathleen Paige, program director for Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense, presented a medal and citation to Mr. Constantine on behalf of the Navy.

The work Rick has done while at APL has had a tremendous influence on the safety of our country and on the safety of the soldiers and sailors who put themselves in harm's way," said APL Director Dr. Rich Roca during the ceremony. " Within the air and missile defense community, his knowledge, expertise and influence are widely regarded."

Mr. Constantine, who just retired as APL's Air Defense Systems Department head, is recognized for "outstanding distinguished service as head of APL's Air Defense Systems Department and the Air and Missile Defense Business Area from 1996 to 2005, and as program area manager for Surface Combat Systems from 1989 to 1996." He is also recognized for his "lead role in the development of the Aegis Combat System, Navy Ballistic Missile Defense, the Cooperative Engagement Capability System, and Integrated Ship Self Defense — efforts that span more than four decades of his Laboratory career.

As stated in his citation, the "significant accomplishments" made by Mr. Constantine's department are "essential to the Navy's and other Department of Defense services' warfighting capabilities" and are a "testament to his leadership and technical prowess, and his ability to inspire his team to strive for excellence in fulfilling their roles as part of a trusted Navy and DoD resource."

Mr. Constantine is a resident of Westerly, R.I., and former resident of Rockville, Md.

Editor's Note: Mr. Constantine is the third APL employee to receive this award in June. William Zinger and Edward Lee were bestowed the honor during a June 20 ceremony at APL.