"Sandia continues to do excellent work in supporting our nation's nuclear weapons stockpile and it plays a vital role in helping maintain our national security edge through other technologies it is developing," Paul said.

Sandia/California is celebrating 50 years of science, technology, energy and contributions to national security in the Bay Area with three days of speakers, panel discussions, and displays. Included in the events will be comments from original Sandia/California employees.

"The people who work here are our most important national security asset. As you rededicate yourselves for the future, know that this country continues to need the quality science and valuable skills you provide. Administrator Linton Brooks joins me in extending congratulations to you on 50 years of incredible science - and we believe the best is yet to come," Paul said.

Established by Congress in 2000, NNSA is a semi-autonomous agency within the U.S. Department of Energy responsible for enhancing national security through the military application of nuclear science. NNSA maintains and enhances the safety, security, reliability and performance of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile without nuclear testing; works to reduce global danger from weapons of mass destruction; provides the U.S. Navy with safe and effective nuclear propulsion; and responds to nuclear and radiological emergencies in the U.S. and abroad.