Cyber experts win ACC awards

  • Published
  • By Angela Pope
  • AFNORTH Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (ACCNS) --  Two cyberspace operations professionals from Air Forces Northern's communications directorate have been recognized for their contributions to the field of information operations with annual awards from Air Combat Command.

Roberto de los Santos was recently named ACC's Outstanding Civilian Contributor of the Year, while Master Sgt. Terry Olson was named ACC's Outstanding Enlisted Contributor of the Year.

"I am very proud of Mr. de los Santos and Sergeant Olson," said Col. Scott Normandeau, AFNORTH communications director. "Their tireless efforts and professionalism greatly enhanced information system security, assuring the air defense of the United States and providing invaluable support to interagency cooperation during homeland contingencies. I have full confidence for continued success as they go on to compete for top honors at higher headquarters."

Mr. de los Santos, AFNORTH's senior information assurance manager, is responsible for the management and execution of information assurance policies, procedures, practices and standards for command, control, communications, computers and intelligence systems.

"His sense of urgency is invaluable, especially in supporting a longstanding requirement for providing an unclassified air picture to the commander of the North American Aerospace Defense Command," Colonel Normandeau said. "His ceaseless efforts have been critical to our mission."

Sergeant Olson, AFNORTH's cyber surety manager, is directly responsible for the certification and accreditation of AFNORTH circuits and systems that support the unit's Defense Support of Civil Authorities and homeland defense missions.

"Having such an astute character, Sergeant Olson led a Command Cyber Readiness Inspection preparation team, aggressively implementing security measures, resulting in an 'Outstanding' rating for AFNORTH," Colonel Normandeau said. "Her actions contribute to maintaining the excellence in our Air Force."

Mr. de los Santos and Sergeant Olson will go on to compete at the Air Force level.

"I extend a hearty 'well done' to Roberto and Terry, and thank them both for bringing recognition to 1st Air Force," said Maj. Gen. Garry C. Dean, AFNORTH commander. "I look forward to seeing them bring back additional 'hardware' as they compete at the USAF level."