CHANTILLY, VA. –
The National Reconnaissance Office honored Richard “Rick” Brubaker and Richard “Dick” Dyer as the 2024 Pioneers of National Reconnaissance at NRO headquarters on Tuesday, June 17. The Pioneer Recognition Program—now 25 years old—is the NRO's highest honor, celebrating people who have made significant, lasting contributions to the field of overhead reconnaissance that changed the direction or scope of the discipline.
“Today we are recognizing achievements that were not only revolutionary at the time but that continue to make an impact—building an enduring legacy that advances the NRO’s unwavering mission of keeping America safe,” said NRO Director Dr. Chris Scolese, who delivered the ceremony’s keynote address. “Rick and Dick personify the spirit of innovation that is the lifeblood of the NRO.”
The ceremony formally inducted Brubaker and Dyer into the Pioneer Hall as the 105th and 106th honorees. NRO’s Pioneer Hall is a collection of commemorative medallions for each of NRO’s Pioneers. The medallions serve as enduring tributes to the Pioneers’ trailblazing contributions to the discipline of national reconnaissance.
According to his Pioneer citation, Brubakers’ contributions have directly supported the NRO mission to develop “reconnaissance capabilities to secure and expand the U.S. intelligence advantage.” He enabled the NRO to provide timely information to the warfighter. Brubaker’s mission commitment, engineering prowess, and collegial spirit distinguish him among decades of key NRO contributors.
Dyer led work in innovative optical systems, enabling the NRO to address a priority intelligence need. The technology he pioneered is now foundational for future high-performance intelligence missions. Dyer devoted more than 50 years to the research and development of advanced technology optical systems for space and ground applications.
“I know the tremendous work being done right now will one day be lauded as trailblazing achievements worthy of the name ‘Pioneers,’” Scolese said. “Today’s capabilities are built upon your dedication and creativity. We stand on your shoulders, and thank and congratulate you.”
The Pioneer Program held its first induction ceremony on Sept. 27, 2000. Then-NRO Director Keith Hall wanted to recognize pioneers of aerial reconnaissance from the time of the NRO’s existence. Due to the overwhelming number of talented individuals, the first ceremony inducted 46 Pioneers. Since then, between one and five individuals have been inducted each year.
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