Presented for Distinguished Contributions in Innovation and Leadership in Space  

 

It is given in honor of our trusted friend and advisor, Gen John E. Hyten who was the first recipient of the AFS Space Innovation & Leadership Award. This award in now the Gen John E. Hyten Award.

 

 Gen John E. Hyten served as the 11th Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The nation's second highest-ranking military officer and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Gen Hyten attended Harvard University on an Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps scholarship, graduated in 1981 with a bachelor’s degree in engineering and applied sciences, and was commissioned a second lieutenant. The general’s career began in engineering and acquisition before transitioning to space operations.

He has commanded at the squadron, group, wing and major command levels. In 2006, he deployed to Southwest Asia as Director of Space Forces for operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. He commanded Air Force Space Command, and prior to his current assignment, was the Commander of U.S. Strategic Command, one of 11 Combatant Commands under the Department of Defense.