Gary Benton receives NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal

Published 8:30 am Sunday, July 4, 2010

    BAY ST. LOUIS  – Gary L. Benton of Carriere, a native of Meridian and project manager for J-2X engine testing for the Project Directorate at John C. Stennis Space Center, received a NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal for exceptional project management leadership.

    The prestigious medal recognizes a significant, specific accomplishment or contribution that improves operations, efficiency, service, science or technology contributing to the NASA mission.

    In his role at Stennis, Benton manages the engine test requirements for the A-1, A-2 and A-3 test stands, as well as the requirements, designs, construction and activation of the A-1 and A-2 test stands in support of the next-generation J-2X rocket engine.

    Data from power pack and full-scale tests conducted at Stennis are critical in validating engine components and systems. The sea-level data from the A-1 facility and the altitude data from the A-2 facility will provide the intermediate development steps essential to full flight certification of the J-2X engine on the A-3 simulated high-altitude test stand under construction at Stennis.

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    Center Director Patrick Scheuermann and NASA Chief of Staff David Radzanowski presented the award to Benton during an annual NASA Honor Awards ceremony June 9.

     For information about Stennis Space Center, visit: www.nasa.gov/centers/stennis