Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton Carter has received the National Defense Industrial Association’s annual Dwight D. Eisenhower Award which honors defense leaders who best reflect President Eisenhower’s beliefs and support for a strong national security and industrial base, according to a Defense Department statement.
Claudette Roulo writes that NDIA presented the award to Carter for his leadership and contributions to the country’s security during a May 3 event at the Ritz Carlton in McLean, Va.
In his acceptance speech, Carter said the long-term goals of the industry are aligned with those of the Defense Department.
He cited President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s warning about the growing military–industrial complex the president issued in his 1961 farewell speech.
“The larger point of his farewell address was that the interests of the country are served when leaders take the long view,” Carter said.
“Only by properly aligning ends with means in accordance with national interests, rather than special interests, can national leaders achieve the balance Eisenhower sought,” he added.
Last years Eisenhower award winner Rep. Buck McKeon will be featured at the Potomac Officers Club Post Sequestration Summit later this month.
