The Satellite Industry Association honored Maj. Gen. Ellen M. Pawlikowski as the recipient of the 2010 Satellite Leadership in Government Award at SIA’s 13th annual Satellite Leadership Dinner at the Mellon Auditorium on Monday, March 15th, 2010, in Washington, D.C. SIA’s Satellite Leadership in Government Award is presented to a government official or member of Congress who has demonstrated leadership and dedication to public service in working on issues affecting the satellite industry and has served as an example to others in government.

SIA recognized General Pawlikowski’s support of commercial satellite communications and her active participation in bringing together both the government and industry on related key issues. Maj. Gen. Pawlikowski is currently commander of Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio and has long held leadership positions with an important SATCOM component, including: commander MILSATCOM Wing; vice commander, Space and Missile Systems Center; and deputy director, National Reconnaissance Office (NRO).

“SIA is pleased to recognize the invaluable support of Maj. Gen. Pawlikowski to the commercial satellite industry, “said Patricia Cooper, President of the Satellite Industry Association. “General Pawlikowski has long recognized the vital importance of commercial satellite technology in serving the warfighter.”

During SIA’s leadership dinner, SIA also honored Télécoms Sans Frontières (TSF) for its exceptional relief efforts during the aftermath of the earthquake in Haiti. “TSF was one of the first on the ground providing relief organizations with essential communications, landing with some of the first flights into Haiti,” noted Ms. Cooper. “Through its network of donors and volunteers, TSF provided satellite connectivity in partnership with several of SIA’s members, offering an essential means of communications for the victims and relief agencies in the wake of this devastating natural disaster.”