MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, California --
An
information technology specialist at Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support
Activity received the 2015 Armed Forces Communications Electronics Association Copernicus
Award Feb. 10 in San Diego, California.
David Vierra leads the Joint Tactical
Information Distribution System/Multi-functional Information Distribution
Link-16 Network Design Facility for the Marine Corps. He was awarded the
Copernicus for his sustained, superior performance in the field of
interoperability and command, control, communications, computers and
intelligence/information technology.
“I was surprised I was selected,” Vierra said.
“I didn’t expect to get an award for what I do… I’ve worked tactical data
systems for 35 years, but I do appreciate being selected.”
MCTSSA is a
subordinate command to Marine Corps Systems Command and a Marine Corps focal point for technical expertise, engineering,
testing, certification and support of command, control, communications and
computer systems. Vierra, who has worked for MCTSSA since 2002, led Link 16
network design efforts and provided subject matter expertise in the development
and fielding of JTIDS/MIDS Link-16 networks. His day-to-day contributions in these
air defense network operations and air C2 operations ensured Marines have the
right information, at the right time and place to meet their command and control
needs.
“We’re very proud of Mr. Vierra being selected
for the Copernicus Award,” said Col. Benjamin Stinson, MCTSSA commanding
officer. “It truly reflects the outstanding contributions he has provided to Marines
and the joint community through his Link 16 network expertise.”
The Copernicus Awards,
established in 1997, were named for the Copernicus Architecture used as the
blueprint for the future command, control, communications, computers and
intelligence structure of the Navy. AFCEA and the U.S. Naval Institute present
the Copernicus Award to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional
initiative, leadership and insight in jobs related to C4I/IT. This year, judges
reviewed applications from the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard—including active-duty
military and civilian nominees—and selected 25 awardees.