AUVSI Soldier Award 2011
The Fort Benning/ Columbus Chapter of the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) Expo was recently held at the Columbus Georgia Convention and Trade Center. The daylong event culminated with dinner and featured guest speaker, Mr Kyle Snyder, Chairman for the National Robotics Training Center Advisory Committee at Florence-Darlington Technical Center. Butch Nery, President of the Ft Benning/Columbus AUVSI Chapter, recognized the services of three outstanding soldiers and made the award presentation for Soldier of the Year, 2nd Battalion 29th Infantry to SGT Christian Tobler, and Soldier of the Year for the 78th Explosive Ordnance Detachment (EOD), SGT James Schwartz. Also recognized was SFC Jose Blanco, who was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation.
AUVSI’s Unmanned Vehicle Systems Expo is the premier forum for reviewing, and experiencing the current and future use of unmanned systems and robotics technology. Attendees included experts in Law Enforcement, Public Safety, Education, Military and Industry organizations from around the globe who use robotic applications.
AUVSI is a worldwide robotics technology and industry leader and is a long-term partner with U.S. Army for unmanned system developments, particularly in shaping the future of unmanned ground vehicle technology and systems that are saving Soldiers lives.
The Fort Benning/Columbus Chapter of AUVSI supports local K-12th grade education by awarding annual scholarships to the Huntsville Space Camp, judging Science Fairs, and Robotic Competition. The AUVSI local chapter provides speakers who, in addressing students, encourage attaining science undergraduate degrees as being crucial in the development of advanced technology.
Exhibitors showcased and demonstrated remote-controlled unmanned equipment highlighting the value of unmanned systems in the scientific, intelligence, law enforcement, homeland security and first responder communities. Land, air, or water, robotic use is expanding.
Speaker programs offered morning and afternoon sessions and included presentations from Georgia Tech, military and corporate personnel. Mr. Donald M. Sando, Director of Capabilities Development and Integration Maneuver Center of Excellence, addressed attendees during lunch about the importance of robotics and its role in military technology. The Valley Partnership co hosted the event and sponsored lunch.
