Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Advanced Technology Larry (Vern L.) Lynn
was awarded the Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service at
a Pentagon ceremony on March 17, 1995. The medal, which is DoD's highest award
for a non-career civilian, was presented by Under Secretary of Defense for
Acquisition and Technology Paul Kaminski.
The citation accompanying the award pointed to Lynn's exceptionally
distinguished service from July 1993 through February 1995. It stated that his
professionalism, dedication and exceptional knowledge of major Defense
acquisition programs and policies contributed significantly to the mission of
the DoD.
Lynn's award citiation stated, "Among his most far-reaching achievements was
establishment of Advanced Concept Technology Demonstrations as a major
Department initiative. Working in close coordination with the Military
Services, the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Defense Agencies, he established a
process to accelerate transition of advanced technologies from the laboratory
into the operational military environment."
Prior to his present position, from 1985-1993 Lynn was vice president and chief
operating officer of the Atlantic Aerospace Electronics Corp., a company he
co-founded. During this period, he was a member of the Defense Science Board
and the Army Science Board. From 1981-1985 Lynn was Deputy Director of the
Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA).
In addition to his current duties, Lynn was designated on March 14, 1995 to be
the Acting Director of ARPA until the appointment of a new director.
