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April 22, 2002 — Distinguished volunteers received the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Environmental Hero Award across the nation. Held in conjunction with Earth Day celebrations, the ceremony honors NOAA volunteers for their "tireless efforts to preserve and protect our nation's environment." (Click image for larger view of NOAA's Environmental Hero Award.)

"Their very important contributions are working to build a proud legacy for generations to come," said Vice Admiral Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Jr., USN (ret.), under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator. "I hope they encourage others in the community to follow their fine example. America needs many more Environmental Heroes of this caliber."

Established in 1995 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Earth Day, the Environmental Hero award is presented to individuals and organizations that volunteer their time and energy to help NOAA. Previous recipients include oceanographers Jean-Michel Cousteau and Sylvia Earle, and actor Ted Danson, head of the American Oceans Campaign.

"On behalf of the 12,500 men and women working at NOAA, I am pleased to present you with this 2002 Environmental Hero Award," Lautenbacher wrote in a letter to the recipients. "This award recognizes your dedicated efforts and outstanding accomplishments to benefit the environment and make our nation a better place for all Americans."

NOAA is dedicated to enhancing economic security and national safety through the prediction and research of weather and climate-related events and providing environmental stewardship of our nation's coastal and marine resources.

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Media Contact:
Greg Hernandez, NOAA, (202) 482-3091