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Recipients announced for prestigious Army Engineer awards to be presented at annual Castle Ball

USACE HQ Public Affairs
Published July 19, 2024
Soldiers in revolutionary era uniforms march out in single file with the American and Army Flags.

Soldiers from the Army's Old Guard retire the colors at the annual Army Engineer Association hosted Castle Ball.

Two gold colored medals on red lanyards rest on a red background.
De Fleury Medals
The De Fleury Medal is one of the most prestigious awards given to individuals who have significantly contributed to the Engineer Regiment.
Photo By: Maj. Spencer Garrison
VIRIN: 240719-A-EP707-1001
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will recognize multiple individuals for their contributions to the organization and Engineer Regiment at the annual Engineer Castle Ball on Fri., Aug. 9, 2024.

The ball is hosted by the Army Engineer Association (AEA) and provides an opportunity for the Chief of Engineers to formally recognize the latest inductees to the Distinguished Civilian Gallery and Sapper and Miner Award of Distinction, as well as present the Engineer Regiment’s most prestigious award, the Gold de Fleury.

This year’s awardees include:

  • The Honorable Michael Connor, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, will receive the Gold de Fleury Medal in recognition of his significant achievements and service to the nation. The award will be presented by Lt. Gen. Scott Spellmon, 55th Chief of Engineers.
  • Command Sgt. Maj. (ret.) Bradley Houston, will receive the Gold de Fleury Medal in recognition of his outstanding leadership and dedication. The award will be presented by 54th Chief of Engineers, Lt. Gen. (ret.) Todd Semonite.
  • Bob Slockbower and Ed Hecker will receive the USACE Distinguished Civilian Award for their exceptional service and contributions to the organization. 
    A wall with rows of organized black and white photos. Above the photos in metallic writing are the words "Distinguished Civilians"
    Distinguished Civilians Gallery
    The Distinguished Civilians Gallery is a display at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Headquarters building in Washington D.C. The Wall recognizes those Civilians who have made major contributions to USACE.
    Photo By: Maj. Spencer Garrison
    VIRIN: 240719-A-EP707-1002
  • Dan Gray and James Shumway will receive the Sapper and Miner Award of Distinction, presented by Maj. Gen. (ret.) Bryan Watson.

The theme of this year’s Castle Ball is “Building Strong for 249 Years.” It is being held at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel, located at 2800 South Potomac Ave., Arlington, Virginia, 22202.

The evening will commence with a reception at 6:00 p.m., followed by dinner and the awards program. The night will conclude with dancing and socializing among Army Engineer teammates and colleagues.

Those interested in attending the evening of celebration and recognition need to RSVP here by August 2.


Chick Lock

Through deeds, not words, we are BUILDING STRONG®