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NATIONAL SECURITY AGENCY
CENTRAl SECURITY SERVICE

FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, MARYLAND 20755-6000

NSA PRESS RELEASE
6 November 2008
For further information contact:
NSA Public and Media Affairs, 301-688-6524

NSA/CSS Inducts Five Pioneers into The National Cryptologic Museum's Hall of Honor

Five pioneers of American cryptology were inducted into the NSA/CSS Hall of Honor today at the National Cryptologic Museum. In his keynote remarks during the induction ceremony, Lieutenant General Keith B. Alexander, Director, National Security Agency/Chief, Central Security Service, highlighted the distinguished achievements of each of the inductees:

• Mr. Benson Buffham - established new offices and procedures that continue to influence NSA/CSS operations.
• Mr. Charles L. Gandy - made significant contributions to the research, development and deployment of quick reaction capabilities, which led to successes throughout the cryptologic community.
• Gen Alfred M. Gray - helped create the Marine Cryptologic Support Battalion, earning him the moniker "Cryptologic Warrior."
• Mr. Oliver R. Kirby - was involved in the Project VENONA and became NSA's first civilian Deputy Director for Production.
• RADM Donald M. Showers - formed the PUPRLE DRAGON program that resulted in greater combat effectiveness and saved American lives in Vietnam.

The Hall of Honor, created in 1999, pays tribute to the pioneers and heroes who have made significant and enduring contributions to American cryptology. For more information on the NSA/CSS Hall of Honor or the National Cryptologic Museum, visit the NSA Homepage at www.nsa.gov.

The National Cryptologic Museum is located at the intersection of Maryland Route 32 and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (I-295), adjacent to the headquarters of the National Security Agency. Hours of operation are 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday (except Federal holidays), and 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month. Admission is free.