Vice Admiral Nora W. Tyson Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award at Special Ceremony in Tucson, AZ

Tucson, AZ – On Saturday, December 7, 2024, Vice Admiral Nora W. Tyson was presented with the TACAMO Community Veterans Association (TCVA) Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her exceptional leadership and decades of service to the United States Navy. The award, presented during a special ceremony in Tucson, celebrates Vice Admiral Tyson’s remarkable contributions to the nation’s defense, her mentorship of service members across the military services, and her lifelong dedication to the TACAMO mission.

A Legacy of Leadership and Professional Excellence

Vice Admiral Tyson’s illustrious career spanned multiple decades, during which she built an extraordinary reputation for professionalism, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to her country. From her early days as a rising star in the TACAMO (Strategic Communications) community to her trailblazing leadership as the first woman to command a U.S. Navy Fleet, Vice Admiral Tyson’s career set the standard for excellence.

Her biography includes key milestones such as serving with Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron 4 (VQ-4), where she commanded one of the Navy’s premier TACAMO units. She also served as the navigator aboard the USS Enterprise and commanded the amphibious assault ship USS BATAAN. Her leadership extended beyond sea duty as she worked on numerous Navy staffs, shaping the future of the Navy and mentoring generations of officers. In 2015, she was appointed Commander of the 3rd Fleet, becoming the first woman to lead a U.S. Navy ship Fleet. In 2017, she retired from active duty with the rank of Vice Admiral.

Throughout her career, Vice Admiral Tyson exemplified servant leadership, building exceptional teams and inspiring those around her. Her focus on teamwork, integrity, and excellence left an indelible mark on both the Navy and the broader military community.

Vice Admiral Tyson’s Remarks

Reflecting on her career, Vice Admiral Tyson spoke fondly of the dedication and teamwork she witnessed in the TACAMO community. “Back in the TACAMO C-130 days, when we were doing 100% airborne coverage, what incredible teamwork it took to make that happen,” Tyson said. “It was the crews on the road who did everything in their power to keep those planes flying. Whether it was three-engine takeoffs or robbing parts, the dedication to getting the mission done was unmatched.”

Tyson also shared a humorous anecdote about the resourcefulness and determination of TACAMO crews: “I remember Captain Jane O'Dea telling me how TACAMO crews would requisition parts from other aircraft to get their planes airborne using the Joint Staff priority one letter carried by crew leaders. That level of dedication speaks volumes about the people in this community.”

Expressing her gratitude, Vice Admiral Tyson added, “I am incredibly honored and humbled to receive this award. Thank you to everyone here, and especially to the TACAMO Community Veterans Association.”

Launch of The TACAMO Foundation

During the ceremony, TCVA Vice President and President of The TACAMO Foundation, Tony Barnes announced the creation of the TACAMO Foundation, a non-profit organization launched in November 2024 to preserve and promote the history of the Navy’s Strategic Deterrence Mission. The Foundation aims to educate the public about the vital role TACAMO plays in national security and provide support through educational programs, public outreach, and scholarships for students connected to the TACAMO community.

The Foundation received a generous initial donation of $200,000 from the Hall-Halliburton Foundation, thanks to the philanthropy of Dr. Randy Mahoney. This donation will fund the creation of the VADM Nora W. Tyson Scholarship, which will support future generations of students and honor Vice Admiral Tyson’s legacy.

“Donations to the TACAMO Foundation are tax-deductible and will help fund scholarships for deserving students as well as support our ongoing educational efforts,” Barnes said. “We are incredibly grateful to all those who contribute to preserving the history of TACAMO and ensuring its continued impact on our nation’s defense.”

To Learn More and Contribute

To learn more about the TACAMO Foundation or to contribute to the VADM Nora W. Tyson Scholarship, please visit the Foundation's website: https://www.tacamo.org/scholarships/awards

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About the TACAMO Community Veterans Association (TCVA)

The TACAMO Community Veterans Association (TCVA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the men and women who have served in the Navy's TACAMO mission. The association works to preserve the legacy of TACAMO's vital role in strategic deterrence and national security, providing veterans and their families with resources and support.