Howard M. Anderly
Chief Technical Assistant
(1911-1952)

Howard Anderly joined the Corps of Engineers following graduation from the University of Wisconsin in 1911 with a degree in civil engineering. He was recognized as an authority on open channel regulation and construction works with wing dams and bank revetments. He served the Corps for 41 years (1911 to 1952) and was a key figure in river and harbor development and construction and development of the canalled system on the Mississippi River. He served the St. Paul District as Head Engineer (1935 to 1949) and as Chief Technical Assistant (1950 to 1952). During World War I, Howard served on active duty as an engineer depot officer at the Port of Baltimore.

1954 Awardee

William D. Fairchild
Resident Engineer for Construction of Locks and Dams 2, 3, and 4
1890-1939

William Fairchild first went to work for the Corps of Engineers in 1890 on a project to survey the Missouri River. He worked as a construction engineer on complex Corps projects for nearly 50 years. He was highly knowledgeable in all types of river improvement and maintenance. Between 1890 and 1939, he supervised the construction of six locks and dams by hired labor and seven by contract. He served with the Duluth, Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, and Louisville Districts as well as the St. Paul District, where he was Resident Engineer for construction of locks and dams 2, 3, and 4.

1954 Awardee

William Henning
Master and Pilot
1905-1943

William Henning was recognized for his energetic work in improving and developing waterway transportation. He began working with the Corps of Engineers as a temporary employee in 1902 and later became a permanent employee, working from 1905 to 1943. He received his pilot’s license in 1895 and his master’s license in 1905. In his 38 years with the Corps, William was Mater and Pilot of the following steamers and dredges: ADA, ELLEN, COOL BLUFF, MINNEAPOLIS, ALERT, FURY, CLYDE, GENERAL ALLEN, and WILLIAM A. THOMPSON.

Hibbert M. Hill
Chief of Design Branch

Hibbert Hill graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1923 and did postgraduate work until 1928. He served the District as Chief of Design Branch and was active in the Army Reserve, attaining the rank of Colonel. In his Reserve capacity, he served as Deputy Chief of Engineering Division, Office of the Chief of Engineers, and as Commander of the 318^th Engineering Group. He was also on the consulting boards for the Walla Walla, Portland, and Little Rock Districts; Omaha Division; the Panama Canal; and the Turkish Ministry of Public Works. He was also active in many professional societies and community groups.

1954 Awardee

Harold A. Kemp
Chief of Design Branch

Harold Kemp graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and did postgraduate studies at Rutgers University. During his varied career with the Government, Harold served as Superintendent of the Service Department at the Ordinance Corps Nitrate Plant in Muscle Shoals Alabama, Chief of the Design Branch in the Chicago and St. Paul Districts, and principal engineer of the North Atlantic Division. He also served as General Superintendent and Chief Engineer of the Sanitary District in Washington, D.C.; and as a consulting engineer to the Civil Defense Planning Board.

1954 Awardee

William Z. Lidicker
Chief of Design Branch

William Lidicker graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1927 with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and in 1928 with a master’s in civil engineering. During his career with the Corps of Engineers, he served as a structural designer with the Milwaukee District and as Chief of the Design Branch for the St. Paul District. William also worked at the Panama Canal Zone as a senior engineer for Studies and Design.

1954 Awardee

William A. “CAP” Thompson
Assistant Engineer
1878-1925

William Thompson graduated from the University of Vermont in 1878 with a degree in civil engineering and served with the Corps for 47 years (1878 to 1925). He served as Assistant Engineer with the Rock Island and St. Paul Districts, supervising channel improvements in the Mississippi River between Lake Pepin and the Wisconsin River from 1885 to 1925.In that position, he was noted for improving open channel dredging methods and wing dam construction. The District’s WILLIAM A. THOMPSON hydraulic dredge was named in his honor.

1954 Awardee

John H. Wade
Chief Administrative Assistant
1891-1936

John Wade was born in England in 1866 and became a United States citizen in 1890. He served the U.S. Government from 1891 to 1936. He joined the St. Paul District in 1898 and served as Chief Administrative Assistant from 1900 to 1936. John was a major force in the development of navigation on the Upper Mississippi River. He was closely involved in changing the 3-foot channel to a 9-foot channel and in construction of the Mississippi River headwaters reservoirs.

1954 Awardee

Robert Butler
Chief of Legal Branch
(1936-1961)

1963 Awardee

Elmer J. Christenson
Assistant Chief of the Engineering Division
1927-1964

Following graduation in 1927 from St. Olaf College, Elmer Christenson joined the St. Paul District. He held key positions in Planning, Design, and Construction during his 37 years with the Corps (1927 to 1964). He served as Chief of Operations Division, Chief of Construction Division, and Assistant Chief of the Engineering Division. From 1955-1960, Elmer provided the leadership necessary for the success of an extensive military design and construction program. Elmer served as Assistant to the Resident Engineer during construction of locks and dams 2, 3, and 4. He later served as Resident Engineer for construction of the second lock at lock and dam 2.

1965 Awardee

Ralph S. Knowlton
Administrative Officer and Technical Liaison Officer – Duluth, St. Paul District
1925-1964

Ralph Knowlton was one of the top technical liaison officers in the Corps. He joined the Duluth District in 1925 as an inspector, became Chief of the Costs Section, then Administrative Officer and Technical Liaison Officer. Her retired in 1964. His commitment to the Corps, his active role in Duluth civic affairs, and his efforts in developing the Duluth visitors center contributed to the good relationship between the Corps and the Duluth community. His article, “Taconite – A Substitute Iron Ore,” appeared in the October 1962 issue of The Military Engineer and brought national recognition to the St. Paul District.

1965 Awardee

Harry M. Markus
Chief of Construction Division
1930-1964

Harry Markus joined the St. Paul District in 1930 following graduation from the University of Minnesota with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. During his 34 years with the District, Harry served on a wide variety of construction projects. He served as Chief of Construction Division from 1956 until his death in 1964. As Division Chief, he was responsible for the construction of the upper lock at St. Anthony Falls – the largest single construction project in the history of the District at the time. During World War II, Harry served on active duty with the Corps of Engineers at the Gopher Ordnance Works and in Alaska and New Mexico.

1966 Awardee

Martin E. Nelson
In Charge of Hydraulic Laboratory
1929-1965

Martin Nelson, an innovative force in the Corps, was the first to use lock model studies in the United States. He made many contributions to lock design, including the development of Corps design criteria for lock filling and emptying. Employed by the St. Paul District from 1929-1965, he supervised lock model studies of navigation installations on all the Nation’s major inland waterways and was highly involved in sedimentation investigations. In 1964, he was appointed by the State Department to the U.S. AID program, where he served as an advisor on hydraulics to the United Arab Republic of Cairo.

1967 Awardee

George E. Lyon
Chief of Engineering Division
1933-1965

George Lyon gained prominence with the St. Pau District for his work on key navigation and flood control projects. He joined the St. Paul District in 1933 as Chief of the Hydraulics and Support Branch. He was active in the completion of the 9-foot navigation channel on the Upper Mississippi River and its extension to mile 14.7 on the Minnesota River. He was an outstanding leader in the engineering efforts for developing a system of multipurpose lakes and dams in the Red River basin. George also supervised planning for the 27-foot channel project at the Duluth-Superior Harbor. He was Chief of Engineering Division at the time he retired.

1968 Awardee

Leopold Arthur Hauser, Jr.
Chief of Construction-Operations Divisions
1933-1969

Leopold Hauser joined the St. Paul District as a temporary employee in 1929 while attending the University of Minnesota. During his 36 years in the District, he attained prominence in channel maintenance. During his career he directed all facets of lock, dam, and reservoir operations and channel maintenance and provided valuable counsel to District Engineers on operation issues. He became a vital contact between the commercial navigation industry and the District. He was Chief of Construction-Operations Division at the time of his death in 1969. Many of the District’s operating policies were a result of his early decisions.

1969 Awardee

Roger B. Hooper
Chief of Program Development Branch
1933-1969

Roger Hooper was the first Chief of Program Development Branch in the St. Paul District. He was responsible for developing and implementing funding programs for accomplishing major flood control construction in the Red River of the North and Mississippi River systems. Roger joined the District as a temporary employee in 1929 and received a permanent appointment in 1933 after he received a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Minnesota. He served the District in many capacities and was involved in the 9-foot channel project on the Mississippi River and District flood control studies. The quality of his work is evidenced by the many awards and commendations he received throughout his career.

1970 Awardee

Francis E. Mullen
Assistant Chief of the Engineering Division
1934-1970

Francis “Moon” Mullen received praise from many for his engineering competence and innovative design skills. His solutions to complex design and construction problems at the St. Anthony Falls uppers and lower locks demonstrated his construction and design abilities. The St. Anthony Falls project was selected as one of the Seven Wonders of Engineering in Minnesota. Francis was Chief of Design Branch for over 20 years. He was appointed Special Assistant to the Chief of Engineering Division in 1968. He retired in 1970 after 36 years of Federal service. His biography was published in the first edition of Engineers of Distinction in 1970, and he was named Twin Cities Civil Servant of the Year in 1965.

1971 Awardee

Allen W. Fiedler
Master of the Dredge WILLIAM A. THOMPSON
1924-1968 and 1929-1968

Allen Fiedler served the St. Paul District for more than 42 years, retiring in 1968. He held a variety of key positions in floating plant operations, including serving as Master of the dredge WILLIAM A. THOMPSON, and was respected throughout the Upper Mississippi area for his expertise. He received numerous awards for this outstanding performance and was cited in 1940 by the Chief of Engineers for his role in the rescue of people during the Armistice Day Storm. In 1949, he was cited by the District Engineer for his outstanding effort on the Snowbound Disaster Force. Twenty years later, in 1969, he supervised the successful emergency flood protection construction at Fountain City, Wisconsin.

1972 Awardee

Emil Silverman
Chief of Construction Division
1932-1970

Emil Silverman was best known by coworkers as an outstanding negotiator, instructor, and manager, with extensive knowledge of construction contracting. After he joined the Corps in 1932, he held a number of construction engineer and supervisory positions. During his career, Emil gained recognition as Chief of the Inspection Branch of the Construction-Operations Division and Chief of the Military Construction Branch. He also was Resident Engineer of the St. Anthony Falls project and Chief of the Construction Branch. During his last 2 years with the District, Emil served as Chief of Construction Division.

1973 Awardee

Richard W. Leonard
Chief of Engineering Division
1645-1972

Richard Leonard was responsible for the unprecedented success of Operation Foresight during the 1969 flood emergency. As Flood Emergency Organization Chief of Staff, he supervised flood protection and emergency assistance to communities throughout the District. National representatives of the Office of Emergency Preparedness and the Chief of Engineers called the speed and quality of the assistance “phenomenal” and “truly remarkable.” Appointed as Chief of Engineering Division in 1966, he instituted a major reorganization of the Division that improved work coordination and expedited completion of complex engineering studies.

1975 Awardee

Edmund Fitzpatrick
Reservoir Manager for the Headwaters Reservoirs
1931-1973

Edmund Fitzpatrick was known for his management of recreation areas and his public service work. During his more than 40 years with the Corps (1931 to 1973), Edmund served in many capacities. He retired as a reservoir manager for the Mississippi River headwaters reservoirs. Edmund was highly involved in community activities, including acting as First Aid Chairperson in Crow Wing Disaster Committee, and Boy Scout Advisor. He also supervised a youth program for teenagers. During World War II, he served in the Pacific Campaign. Edmund was named Civil Servant of the Year in 1972.

1976 Awardee

Henry W. Harich
Chief of Water Control
1934-1972

Hank Harich joined the St. Paul District in 1934. He retired in 1972 after 38 years of service. For 26 years, he was responsible for reservoir regulation and water control functions. Hank developed basic procedures for water control at locks and dams and headwaters reservoirs. He was an authority on flood forecasting on the Upper Mississippi River and the Red River of the North. His expert advice was used by the National Weather Service, the Manitoba Government, the United State Coast Guard, and State agencies. He served as engineer to three International Joint Commission boards. Hank was named Twin Cities Civil Servant of the Year in 1966.

1978 Awardee

J. Robert Calton
Chief of Planning Branch
1936-1980

Bob Calton was noted for his outstanding negotiation skills, technical competence, and leadership. He was Chief of Planning Branch from 1950 to 1980. In his 43 years with the Corps, he also represented the District on a number of international boards. Under his leadership, the District became involved in comprehensive planning for the Red River of the North and Mississippi River basins. As an able negotiator, he helped reconcile a number of political and emotionally-charged issues. After retiring in January 1980, Bob joined the GREAT Study Task Force. He played a major role in completion of this study of the resources and management of the Upper Mississippi River. Bob was named Civil Servant of the Year in 1972.

1980 Awardee

Roger G. Fast
Chief of Engineering Division
1948-1980

After graduating from the University of Minnesota in 1948, Roger Fast joined the District. He worked in the Construction and Engineering Divisions. He served as assistant Chief of Engineering Division from 1965 to 1972 and Chief from 1972 to 1980. Roger successfully directed the 200-person Engineering Division during a period of changing water resource philosophies and policies. He recognized and included sensitive environmental issues in water resources development projects. His leadership produced the Corps’ first large-scale, nonstructural flood damage reduction project – Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin – and made the Corps a leader in the Great River Environmental Action Team (GREAT). Roger was honored as Civil Servant of the Year in 1972.

1981 Awardee

Hildegard L. Wimmer
Chief of Personnel
1937-1976

Hildegard Wimmer was a trailblazer and role model for other women in the St. Paul District. In her nearly 40 years of service with the Corps (1937 to 1976) Hilde worked her way from clerk, GS-2, to Chief of Personnel, GS-13. Her career accomplishment is especially noteworthy because it came at a time when few other women occupied management-level positions in the District. As Chief of Personnel from 1968-1976, she directed the personnel program during a period of growth for the District and was instrumental in the development of a professional, full-service personnel program.

1984 Awardee

Sheldon Fox
Head Electronics Mechanic
1960-1982

Sheldon Fox began working for the St. Paul District in 1960 as an electrician. He later became the District’s first radio repairer/installer. He pioneered the District’s radio program, establishing a VHF/UHF system. Until 1970, when additional help was hired, Sheldon had to work alone, installing, repairing, and modifying equipment and teaching others about radio operation. He played an important role in many flood emergency operations. He also served as an EEO counselor for 10 years and was very active in church and community affairs. Sheldon received many awards during his career, including the Civil Servant of the Year award in 1981.

1985 Awardee

Richard C. Lindberg
Chief of Small Purchasing Branch
1960-1985

Mr. Richard C. Lindberg retired with 44 years of Federal Service, including 25 years in the Procurement Branch of the St. Paul District. He began his career with the St. Paul District as a Purchasing Agent and served as Chief, Small Purchasing Branch, for 12 years prior to his retirement. Mr. Lindberg worked diligently to insure that the goods and services acquired by the District were provided at a fair and equitable price. He received numerous awards for his professional achievements.

1986 Awardee

Peter A. Fischer
Chief of Engineering Division
1955-1987

Pete Fischer joined the St. Paul District in 1955. He held a BS in civil engineering and an MS in structural engineering from the University of Minnesota. He served as Chief of Hydraulics, Assistant Chief of Engineering, and in October 1980, was appointed Chief of Engineering Division. Under his leadership, the District began the major rehabilitation of the aging Mississippi River locks and dams. Included was the $45 million rehabilitation of lack and dam 1, which received numerous awards including the 1983 Chief of Engineers Award of Excellence. Pete was a highly respected professional engineer as well as an accomplished leader and manager. He was frequently called upon by the Chief of Engineers to serve on special committees dealing with national issues.

1987 Awardee

Catherine A. Smith
Chief of Examination Section
1976-1989

Mrs. Catherine A. Smith served in key Finance and Accounting support positions from April 1976 until retiring in July 1989. In the discharge of many and varied duties, her professionalism was exemplified by prompt and proper payments to all customers. Under her direction, office operations attained proficiency through on-the-job training and received Corps-wide acclaim for minimum lost discounts or assessed interest penalties. Awards garnered attested to her initiative and zeal for the Corps of Engineers Customer Care Policies and its goals to support and serve. In addition to performance awards, she also received the Civil Servant of the Year in 1985. Mrs. Smith’s long and faithful federal service and contribution to the St. Paul District set high standards of dedication to work, fiscal responsibility, and citizenship.

1989 Awardee

Robert B. Fletcher
Chief of Design Branch
1955-1989

Bob Fletcher joined the St. Paul District upon graduation from the University of Minnesota in 1955. He held a BS in civil engineering and MS in soils engineering. He served as Acting Chief, Construction Branch, and as Chief, General Engineering Section. In 1970, he was appointed Chief, Design Branch, a position he held for 18 years. In this capacity, he managed the extensive design work for the rehabilitation of Mississippi River Lock and Dam 1, a $45 million project that received the Chief of Engineers Award of Excellence and a Presidential Design Award. He was a leader in contracting with architect-engineer firms to supplement resources in the District. As a manager, he was dedicated to development of his employees, acting as a coach and mentor. He was named Civil Servant of the Year in 1972.

1989 Awardee

William L. Goetz
Chief of Construction-Operations Division
1957-1990

Bill Goetz served as the Chief of Construction-Operations Division from 1970 to 1990, a time of unprecedented environmental awareness. He skillfully guided the District’s dredging operations and regulatory activities during this period of intense scrutiny from Federal and State agencies and citizen groups, and he made significant contributions to management of the Mississippi River. He directed the construction of major flood control projects on the Souris and Sheyenne Rivers, ND, and at Rochester, Mankato, Chaska, and Winona, MN. Committed to Equal Employment Opportunity, he promoted hiring and training of women and minorities in nontraditional positions. He was named Civil Servant of the Year and was decorated with the Meritorious Civilian Service Award.

1991 Awardee

Wallace J. Voss
Central Area Lockmaster
1951-1988

Wally Voss served the St. Paul District for more than 37 years, retiring in 1988 as Central Area Lockmaster. He was the first Central Area Lockmaster and was instrumental in implementing the reorganization of the lock in 1985 and establishing policies, procedures and new staffing guidelines for the locks under the reorganization. Building on his experience as a Navy diver in World War II, he developed the District’s diving program, serving as diver, diving supervisor and finally as District diving coordinator. He directed the successful efforts to protect Lock and Dam 5A, where he was lockmaster, during the severe flooding of 1965 and 1969. He was named Civil Servant of the Year in 1986.

1992 Awardee

Captain Vernon Gunderson
Master of the Dredge WILLIAM A. THOMPSON
1952-1991

Captain Vernon Gunderson held the two highest positions on the Dredge WILLIAM A. THOMPSON, as Master and Chief Engineer, for 23 years of his 39-year career with the St. Paul District. In response to environmental concerns for dredged material placement, Captain Gunderson directed major plant improvements and facilitated significant operational changes. Captain Gunderson has been acknowledged as the Corps’ leading field expert on cutterhead dredging equipment and operations. He was a St. Paul District Civil Servant of the Year 1982. Captain Gunderson’s work ethics and leadership by example were an inspiration to all who knew and worked with him, and earned him the highest respect.

1993 Awardee

James E. Kursu
Chief, Programs Management Branch
1955-1994

Jim Kursu served as Chief of the Programs Development Office for nearly 20 years, retiring in 1994 as Chief, Programs Management Branch. He had more than 41 years of federal service, most of it with the St. Paul District. His thorough knowledge of the District, the Corps and the Congressional process made him a valuable advisor to eight District Engineers. He skillfully led the District through very challenging and critical budgetary submissions year after year. Jim repeatedly met this challenge, insuring that obligations and expenditures of funds were maximized, and funds were programmed and justified to carry out the increasing workload. Over the years, Jim has been recognized for his outstanding efforts by Division Engineers, Chiefs of Engineers, and the President of the United States.

1995 Awardee

Louis E. Kowalski
Deputy District Engineer Management and Chief, Programs and Project Management Division
1957-1996

Lou Kowalski retired in April 1996 as Deputy District Engineer for Project Management/Chief of the Programs and Project Management Division, a position he had held since 1994. His federal career spanned more than 39 years during which he served on active duty as an engineering officer with the U.S. Army; served with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; and held a variety of key positions with the St. Paul District culminating in his selection as the Deputy District Engineer for Project Management in 1994. Lou’s efforts strongly influenced negotiations with Canada for the Souris River Project, implementation of the Upper Mississippi River Environmental Management Program and establishment of key partnerships with state and federal agencies. He earned the Silver DeFleury Medal from the Army Engineer Association and the U.S. Army Meritorious Service Medal.

1996 Awardee

Harold E. Taggatz
Assistant Chief, Construction-Operations Division
1962-1998

Harold E. Taggatz retired April 3, 1998 following more than 35 years of Federal Service, all in the St. Paul District’s Construction-Operations Division. During his last 12 years of his career, Harold served as Assistant Division Chief and earned recognition throughout the Corps of Engineers for his participation on a number of committees and task forces. In 1996, he received the prestigious Hammer Award for his efforts as chair of the Corps’ National Task Force for O&M Plan of Improvement. Harold started with the St. Paul District as a civil engineer trainee following graduation from the University of Minnesota in 1962. He later earned a master’s degree in soils and foundations engineering from Purdue University.

1998 Awardee

David J. Haumersen
Served as Chief of the Construction Operations Division from February 1994 to December 1998

Throughout his career, Dave made significant contributions to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers serving in key leadership positions. He was the first Deputy District Engineer for Project Management for the St. Paul District. He was an early champion for customer service and cooperative relationships with other agencies with shared interests.

Dave was recognized throughout the federal engineering community serving with distinction as an outstanding engineer and leader, devoted to subordinate development and recognition. He received many awards during his career to include the Civilian Award for Humanitarian Service and the Bronze DeFleury Medal.

1999 Awardee

Robert F. Post
Served as the Chief, Engineering Division, St. Paul District from January 1987 to March 1999

Bob joined the St. Paul District in 1967 and held a number of key leadership positions. During his tenure, he provided leadership and was directly and continuously involved in District projects that won Corps-wide awards. During record breaking flooding, he worked tirelessly as the Flood Executive Officer, directing advance preparations and emergency operations for communities within the District.

Throughout his career, he distinguished himself with outstanding skill, confidence, and leadership. He received many awards during his career including the Meritorious Civilian Service Award, the Army Achievement Medal, and the Minnesota Government Engineer of the Year Award.

1999 Awardee

William W. Spychalla
Project Manager and Flood Area Engineer
1971-1999

Bill performed outstanding service for the Corps in the development of flood control projects throughout the Red River of the North basin. He was flood area engineer for major Red River flood in 1978-1979. He was the key manager for Devils Lake projects, leading the 1996-1998 emergency actions to prevent damages from unprecedented rising lake levels. Known for professionalism and integrity throughout the Corps and by project sponsors, he was a mentor for many project managers. His civic work included building schools in third world countries. Bill was Civil Servant of the Year in 1998, and received the Engineer Regiment deFleury Medal in 1999.

2000 Awardee

Charles E. Crist
Deputy for Programs and Project Management
1969-2001

Chuck Crist retired in March 2001 as Deputy for Programs and Project Management, a position he held since 1996. His outstanding federal career spanned 32 years, starting in 1969 when he served at the St. Paul District as an army engineer officer. He went on to hold a variety of key positions in the District. Chuck skillfully established effective working relationships with numerous state and federal agencies and elected officials to address the critical water resource issues of the Upper Midwest. Through his expert guidance and example, he provided mentorship to employees throughout the District. Chuck earned numerous awards during his career, including the Bronze deFleury Medal and the U.S. Army Civilian Meritorious Service Medal.

2001 Awardee

Charleen M. Hauger
Environmental Protection Specialist
1976-2001

Char Hauger served the St. Paul District for 25 years, from 1976 until her death in 2001.  During that time, through dedication, hard work and continuous self-development, Char rose from a GS-5 applications review specialist to serving as the Acting Chief, Regulatory Branch.  She remains a role model for many employees who strive to improve themselves though continuing education, determination, and excellent performance.  During her years of service, she undertook the implementation of a computerized financial management system, as well as an optical disk imaging system that became a model for the Corps of Engineers.  Char earned numerous awards, including the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service and the Civil Servant of the Year.

2002 Awardee

Dennis E. Cin
Chief, Operations Technical Support Branch
1965 - 1999

As a civil engineer in the District from 1965 to 1999, Dennis Cin was a manager in virtually all functional areas of Construction-Operations Division. Dennis was strongly devoted to the navigation function and the personnel and equipment resources involved in execution of the mission. He was a leader in revolutionizing channel maintenance practices at a pivotal time in that program and introduced both innovative and efficient dredging techniques and equipment modifications. Major modernization of the District’s locks and dams began under his management. Dennis was also instrumental in groundbreaking changes in interagency cooperation on the Mississippi River.

2003 Awardee

Allen L. Geisen
Chief, Design Branch
1971 - 2003

Allen L. Geisen retired Aug. 3, 2003, after more than 32 years of federal service. Al worked in many offices, including both construction and engineering positions in Omaha, Alaska, and St. Paul districts. For the last seven years of his career, Al served as Chief, Design Branch. He also served on national level teams, including the Specification Steering Committee for Civil Works. Al made his greatest contribution as a leader developing leaders, serving as a mentor for many young professionals at all levels of experience. He set a new standard for team building and establishing trusting, cooperative relationships, both for individuals and organizations. Al received numerous awards, including the Civil Servant of the Year award in 1993 and the deFleury Medal.

2004 Awardee

Mary Kay Linder
Executive Secretary
1972 - 2004

During her 32-year federal career, 26 years with the St. Paul district, Mary Kay distinguished herself as a consummate professional as she rose from a clerk typist to the leader of the District clerical staff. As the executive office administrative assistant for 20 years, she assisted nine district commanders by focusing on the good of the commander, the district and the nation. Her upbeat personality, common sense and can-do attitude created a welcoming atmosphere for all. She established the mentoring program and internships for clerical positions and championed many efforts that improved the St. Paul District. During her career she was awarded the Civil Servant of the Year Award, the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service, the Commander's Award for Equal Employment Opportunity Achievement and the Superior Civilian Service Award.

2005 Awardee

David C. Loss
Project Manager
1971 – 2004

In 33 years with the Corps of Engineers, Dave has been a highly respected project manager and planner. His ability to lead teams and his commitment to open and honest coordination enabled him to forge consensus in complex and controversial situations. A prime example was his leadership of a multidistrict floodplain assessment of the Upper Mississippi River and Lower Missouri River following the 1993 flood. The Corps recognized Dave and his team as the 1995 Planning Team of the Year and awarded them the 1996 Design and Environmental Merit Award. Following the devastating Red River of the North flood of 1997, Dave served as U.S. advisor to the International Red River Basin Task Force whose report and recommendations continue to inform the bi-national approach to water issues in the basin. Both efforts have had lasting impacts on the Corps’ approach to flood damage reduction.

2006 Awardee

Gary D. Palesh
Project Manager
1974 - 2003

As a biologist and project manager with the St. Paul District for 28 years, Gary has had a tremendous influence on the Corps’ mission on the Upper Mississippi River. His environmental work dramatically changed the district’s channel maintenance program, incorporating environmental and recreational considerations. As program manager for habitat restoration, he led the team that developed the Pool 8 island project, which won the 2004 Chief of Engineers’ Environmental Award of Excellence and has served as an example to the entire region. He coordinated the first successful navigation pool drawdown, which improved 2,000 acres of aquatic habitat and provided a model for future drawdowns. He is highly regarded by the other Mississippi River resource agencies for his contributions to improvements in river management and his ability to build consensus among those agencies.

2006 Awardee

John J. Bailen
Chief of Engineering and Construction Division
1973 – 2006

John Bailen served the Corps of Engineers for 33 years, the last 6 as the St. Paul District chief of the Engineering and Construction Division. He provided exceptional leadership and sound technical guidance to the district, the Mississippi Valley Division and the Army during a period of great change, including regionalization and an increased emphasis on protecting and enhancing the nation’s environment. John was known for his quick wit, astute business sense and unquestionable integrity. He was a champion for national, regional and local efforts to advance the organization’s ability to deliver quality products in a timely and cost-efficient manner. Building strong relationships was the cornerstone of John’s work philosophy, and he worked tirelessly at strengthening partnerships and developing subordinates.

2007 Awardee

Ben A. Wopat
Assistant Chief, Operations Division
1976 – 2006

Ben Wopat served the Corps of Engineers for 30 years, the last 8 as the St. Paul District assistant chief of Operations Division. During his career, Ben was chief of the district’s Emergency Management Office and Regulatory Branch; the programs he developed are some of the best in the Corps. Ben championed the building of relationships; as chief of the regulatory program he established contacts with local, state and other federal agencies that still exist today. He was known for his consistency and integrity in decision making. Due to his expertise as a local judge he was often relied on to manage special projects for the Commander. He always accepted challenges, serving effectively as acting chief of Operations Division and acting deputy district engineer. Ben also volunteered to be the Mississippi Valley Division project manager for the critical transition to the National Security Personnel System. His mentoring and leadership of Corps employees helped build a foundation for future success.

2008 Awardee

Edwin C. Bankston
District Counsel, Office of Counsel
1988 – 2008

Ed Bankston served the Army Corps of Engineers for 22 years, 19 of those as St. Paul’s District Counsel from August 1988 through January 2008. Among his many accomplishments, Ed revitalized the district’s regulatory enforcement program, helping develop it into one of the most envied in the Corps. A widely respected expert in the Corps’ civil works programs, he was routinely consulted on matters of nationwide significance, particularly in the area of Native American treaty rights. In both word and deed, Ed was a model of the Army values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, which was recognized by the award of the Corps’ prestigious Bert P. Pettinato “Pride in Public Service” Award in 2005. During his career, Ed’s knowledge, skill and dedication to duty made him an invaluable asset to the Corps.

2009 Awardee

Daniel J. Krumholz
Operations Manager, Locks and Dams Project Office
1970 – 2008

Dan Krumholz served the Corps of Engineers for 38 years, the last two years as the operations manager for the Locks and Dams Project Office. During most of his career, Dan was the operations manager for the Channels and Harbors Project and was responsible for developing the District Channel Maintenance Program into one of the best in the Corps. He championed the building of partnerships between resource agencies working on the river and was instrumental in getting the formal partnering agreement signed by the River Resources Forum in 1991. He was known for his integrity and always accepted challenges when asked. His mentoring and leadership set the stage for many future generations of Corps employees.

2010 Awardee

Marianne E. Price
Chief, Equal Employment Opportunity Office
1984 – 2008

Marianne Price served as equal employment opportunity officer for the St. Paul District for 24 years during a time of great societal change that was mirrored in the district. Marianne promoted equality and opportunity for all district employees and was an ardent advocate for programs such as upward mobility, telework, and mentoring to help the district become a workplace of excellence. She worked to recruit and retain a diverse workforce and formed Special Emphasis Program committees to work on diversity issues. Her expert leadership of the EEO program was recognized in 2002, when she was named the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ EEO Officer of the Year and received the U.S Army Award for Outstanding Achievement in EEO. Marianne’s commitment to equal employment opportunity resulted in an enduring influence on the St. Paul District.

2010 Awardee

Donald L. Powell
Program Manager, Project Management
1972 – 2008

Don Powell worked in the St. Paul District for 36 years and served as the program manager for the Upper Mississippi River Environmental Management Program (EMP) from its 1986 inception to his retirement in 2008.

A leader and visionary in managing and growing the EMP, Don became a national leader in environmental design techniques and adaptive management to increase the results of future projects. His leadership and vision championed the widely-recognized ecosystem restoration program. He managed the design and construction of more than 25 habitat enhancement and rehabilitation projects within the St. Paul District.

These projects received numerous awards, including the Corps’ Chief of Engineers Award of Excellence and Design Team of the Year (2004) and the Seven Wonders of Engineering in Minnesota (2001, 2002).

2011 Awardee

Mark W. Nelson
Chief, Real Estate Division
1995- 2010

Mark Nelson served as Chief, Real Estate Division, for the St. Paul District for 15 years. He managed acquisition and disposal of real estate for Corps projects and negotiated lease of office space for field organizations and the District Headquarters. He led Corps emergency response efforts ranging from flood fights in the upper Midwest to hurricane recovery in southern Louisiana. His contributions to the Mississippi Valley Division Regional Management Board helped forge the Division’s regional governance model. In addition, Mark served four assignments as Deputy District Engineer and led many District-wide initiatives. For significant service to the Corps of Engineers he received several honorary awards including the Army Engineer Association Bronze de Fleury Medal. Mark will be remembered as a trusted advisor to Commanders and an advocate and mentor for District managers and employees.

2012 Awardee

Randy C. Brunet
Chief of Resource Management
(1979-2011)

Randal C. Brunet served the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for 32 years as a resource management officer, the last nine years as the chief. During his career, Randal’s leadership helped distinguish him above others. He routinely provided guidance, mentoring and advice to both district leadership and subordinates. His management style helped foster an unqualified audit opinion on the district’s financial statements, a first ever for any large Department of Defense organization. Randal was also instrumental in the Mississippi Valley Division regionalization efforts to help realize the Corps of Engineers’ 2012 strategic vision. Further, he used his leadership skills to support the nation following Hurricanes Gustav and Ike by planning and executing recovery field offices for both disasters. His effort allowed the Corps of Engineers to help local communities recover and begin the rebuilding process.

2013 Awardee

Lowell G. Hanson
Construction Quality Assurance Representative
(1975-2011)

Lowell Hanson distinguished himself during his 36 years of federal service with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a consummate professional in the construction contract administration field. His positive outlook, innovative ideas, mentoring skills, cost saving recommendations and outstanding technical knowledge were invaluable to the nation during his years of service. Lowell’s dedicated service and passion for problem solving while providing a quality constructed product greatly influenced the Devils Lake, N.D., levee construction, as well as many other civil works projects. His vision set the standard for all to follow. Further, Lowell was highly respected by local sponsors, other agencies, contractors and new employees for his leadership and ability to bring people together to ensure projects were completed in a quality manner and on time.

2013 Awardee

Melissa Gulan
Eastern Area Engineer
(1977-2010)

Melissa Gulan has distinguished herself in over 33 years of federal service with the Corps of Engineers, most notably during her 15 years as the eastern area engineer. As one of the district’s first female engineers in construction, Melissa was a pioneer role model in her field, mentoring and encouraging other women engineers that followed in her footsteps. Melissa led the eastern area office with distinction and supervised the construction of civil works projects totaling hundreds of millions of dollars through 2010. Melissa is the only St. Paul District employee who has twice been selected as the district’s Civil Servant of the Year, in 1992 and 2008.

2014 Awardee

Patrick Foley
Chief, Hydraulics Section
(1973-2014)

Pat Foley served the St. Paul District for 41 years, 27 of them as chief of the hydraulics section. During his tenure, he provided exceptional leadership and technical expertise to the district and the Army Corps of Engineers. As a supervisor, he excelled at developing his staff and his positive influence on his employees will serve the public for decades to come. Pat’s technical ability and reputation were recognized nationally in the hydraulics and hydrology community of practice and earned him positions on the Corps’ hydrology committee, several Corps research committees, the Corps hydrology and hydraulics task force on hydrology and hydraulics capability, a writer of the levee system evaluation engineering circular and involvement in the Corps’ fledgling efforts to incorporate climate change science into its missions.

2015 Awardee

Tim Bertschi
Manager, Recreation and Natural Resources
(1978-2015)

Tim Bertschi distinguished himself during his 37 years with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District. As the recreation and natural resources manager during a period of declining budgets, he was responsible for all recreation, natural resources and flood risk management for all sites without a navigation mission. His exemplary performance as a flood manager during six of the top eight historic floods to occur in the Red River of the North basin sets him apart. Bertschi’s technical flood fighting skills, adept diplomacy and ability to assess and take action were paramount in the successful defense of many communities during numerous floods. Bertschi was highly respected for his flood fighting both internally and externally. He truly was a highly effective leader during extremely stressful natural disaster situations.

2016 Awardee

Steve Adamski
Office of Counsel
(1985-2016)

Steve Adamski distinguished himself by exemplary service throughout his 32 years of service to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Time after time, his work was the key to mission success on critical projects. As an unsurpassed mediator, Steve’s skill brought long term antagonists to the table to make the district’s largest American Recovery and Reinvestment Act project, Lock and Dam 3 Embankment Repair, a reality. When historic flooding on the Red and Souris rivers occurred in 2009 and 2011, Steve’s 24/7 availability ensured contracts were awarded in real time, protests were avoided and work was completed to save lives and property. The consummate problem solver, he eliminated roadblocks on countless district projects. Steve has mentored innumerable employees, creating a lasting legacy within the Corps’ legal practice and mission communities.

2017 Awardee

Bruce Boldon
Chief of Operations
(1986-2015)

Throughout Bruce Boldon’s 29 year career with the Corps he provided key leadership to local, national and international mission accomplishments. As the chief of the operations division, he fostered change and improvement in the district. Using strategic thinking and corporate action, he focused on maximizing program execution, and improving organizational efficiencies. He deployed to manage recovery field offices in two national disasters; Grand Forks, N.D. flood in 1997 and Hurricane Gustav in 2008. His leadership resulted in quickly getting the communities and citizens impacted by the disasters, critical support. In 2003, Bruce deployed to Iraq as the senior Corps civilian as a part of the initial on-site team. Under his leadership, his team developed processes for mission execution of a one billion dollar program.

2018 Awardee

Judy DesHarnais
Deputy for Programs and Project Management
(1985-2018)

Judith DesHarnais was a critical leader in planning, resourcing and building public works engineering projects during a three-decade career with the district. These projects saved lives, prevented more than a billion dollars in economic damages, improved the economy and protected the environment. She joined the district as one of its first female engineers and continued to make history in 2001, when she was promoted to be the district’s and Corps’ first female deputy district engineer for programs and project management. Judith was instrumental in providing advice and counsel to eight district commanders and numerous Corps staff. She was considered a leader and role model across the Corps and often supported efforts that made the district a more flexible, family-friendly place to work.

2019 Awardee

Mark Koenig
Chief, Construction Branch
(1981-2022)

Over the course of his 41-year career, Mark Koenig served in various roles with significant responsibility and impact to include: active-duty military engineer, construction resident engineer and contracting officer’s representative, the chief of safety and security, the chief of emergency management and, most recently, chief of construction. During his tenure as construction chief, he oversaw significant construction projects in Fargo, North Dakota; Moorhead, Minnesota; and along the Mississippi River. In addition, he served as the district’s emergency manager during the Global War on Terror and the 2011 Red River of the North and Souris River floods. He voluntarily deployed twice to Afghanistan and for numerous hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and tsunami recovery efforts.

Steve Eggers
Senior Ecologist
(1977-2021)

Steve Eggers served the Corps of Engineers for nearly 44 years, most recently as a senior ecologist for the St. Paul District regulatory division. Eggers substantially contributed to aquatic resource protection and restoration throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin by publishing technical manuals, contributing to the design, construction, and monitoring of wetland restoration projects, and serving as an instructor and mentor to thousands of federal and state regulators, consultants, compensatory mitigation bank sponsors and the public. He retired in 2021. Eggers’ positive influence spans the country, as evidenced by his contributions to national committees and unsurpassed technical assistance to other districts working to improve their compensatory mitigation programs. 

Jim Ruyak 
Mississippi River Headwaters Project Area Manager
(1960-2019)

Ruyak, former Mississippi River headwaters project area manager, was honored for a career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that spanned 59 years. After starting with the Pittsburgh District, he joined St. Paul in 1973 to work on constructing La Farge Dam. Jim is well known in Minot, North Dakota, leading flood fights in 1974, 1975, 1976 and 1979 sparing the city for which he received the Exceptional (Distinguished) Civilian Service award, the highest civilian award. In 1979 he became the project area manager for the six Mississippi River headwaters dams.After the Persian Gulf war in 1991, Jim deployed on the first of three tours to Kuwait for which he received the Superior Civilian Service award.  After the 2001 twin towers attack, and into 2019, Jim was assigned to the Transatlantic Division to recruit civilians for the Corps’ mission in Afghanistan.