Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld announced today that the president has nominated Army Lt. Gen. Edward G. Anderson III for reappointment to the rank of lieutenant general with assignment as deputy commander, U.S. Northern Command, Peterson Air Force Base, Colo.  Anderson is currently serving as the deputy commander and chief of staff, U.S. Space Command and vice commander U.S. element, North American Aerospace Defense Command, Peterson Air Force Base.

Prior to his current assignment, LTG Anderson served as the Director of Plans and Policy (J5), the Joint Staff, Washington D.C.

For more information and official biography visit http://www.spacecom.mil/bio-ud.htm.

For the past 16 years, the annual Women in Aerospace, WIA, awards have recognized outstanding achievements by women in various aspects of the aerospace field. The event this year was held in the House Science Committee hearing room, in Washington, D.C.  Rep. Joe Hefley, (R-CO), presented Thomas’ award.

WIA is a national, nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding women’s opportunities for leadership and increasing their visibility in the aerospace community. WIA sponsors frequent interactions with senior representatives of the Administration, Members of Congress, industry leaders, scientists, educators, and international aerospace experts. WIA is also influential in science and technology policy. 

Thomas is married to Col Gene Smith (USMC, Ret.).  She and Gene keep busy on their ranch in Teller County, Colo.