Outstanding Civilian Service Medal. (photo: Steve Thompson)

Alex Pitts, External Affairs
Major General William Wade, adjutant general for the California National Guard, presented Regional Director Steve Thompson with an Outstanding Civilian Service medal during the retirement party held in Steve’s honor.  The Major General was representing Assistant Secretary of the Army for Environmental Safety and Health, Tad Davis.

The Outstanding Civilian Service Medal was established by directive of the Secretary of the Army in January 1959 and is the third highest military honor that can be given to a civilian.  The Outstanding Civilian Service Medal consists of a bronze medal, lapel button and citation certificate.  The Secretary of the Army or major commander may award this medal for outstanding service that makes a substantial contribution or is of significance to the Army command concerned. Eligible recipients include Federal Government officials at the policy development level.

Citation:

Mr. Thompson is cited for his exceptional public service with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service while providing support to the U.S. Army.  As the Regional Director of Region 8 of the USFWS from 2002 to 2008, he provided guidance, leadership and vision in the development of the biological opinion allowing the expansion of the National Training Center at Ft Irwin, California.  Through his guidance and mentoring, endangered species and their critical habitat were protected while provide exemplary support to the Army and ensuring military readiness and preparedness were never compromised.  Mr. Thompson’s contributions reflect great credit upon himself and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.