Earlier this month the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health was recognized as a “Patriotic Employer” by the Defense Department. The citation from the Office of the Secretary of Defense followed nomination of ASPPH by former ASPPH policy analyst 1^st Lt. Mr. John McElligott, who did his basic and advanced training while an employee at the Association. Mr. McElligott now serves as deputy executive director of the Commissioned Officers Association of the Public Health Service. In addition to 1^st Lt. Mr. John McElligott, Mr. Sam Cardick served on the policy team at ASPPH while preparing to enter the U.S. Army Judge Advocate School. The citation reads in part, “For Contributing to National Security by Supporting Employee Participation in America’s National Guard and Reserve Force.” Current employees with military experience include former Army Sgt. Mr. Alex Prada and former Marine Corps Lt. Col Mr. Michael Stephens.