Two NASA employees have been recognized for their exceptional contributions to the nation's space industry. The Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals, also known as the Sammies, are awarded to outstanding federal employees who address many of the country's greatest challenges. Rich Burns from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, and John Blevins of Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, were selected out of 350 nominees and are part of the 23 individuals and teams to earn this prestigious achievement.
"Rich and John exemplify the spirit of exploration and service that defines NASA and our nation's civil servants," said acting NASA Administrator Janet Petro. "Their leadership, ingenuity, and dedication have not only advanced America's space program but also inspired the next generation of innovators. We are proud to see their achievements recognized among the very best of federal service."
Burns worked as a project manager for the Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security - Regolith Explorer (OSIRIS-REx) mission, which began on Sept. 18, 2016, with the goal of retrieving a sample of an asteroid. "It's humbling to accept an award based on the achievements of the amazingly talented, dedicated, and innovative OSIRIS-REx team," Burns said. "I consider myself privileged to be counted among a team of true explorers who let no obstacle stand in the way of discovery."
Blevins was the chief engineer for the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and led the team as part of Artemis 1, the first test flight on Nov. 16, 2022. He is currently leading the engineering team for Artemis II as that project prepares for the first crewed lunar mission. "This is a reflection on the hard work and dedication of the entire Artemis Team," Blevins said. "I am working with an incredibly competent, dedicated team agency-wide that goes above and beyond to promote the space exploration goals of our nation. I am honored to accept the award on their behalf."
A ceremony will be held in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday and will be live-streamed on the Sammies website.
