In Greek mythology, Prometheus was a Titan, a benefactor to humanity, and a champion of mankind.
A member of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Project Office has been recognized as a champion for the advancement of the Army's unmanned aircraft systems.
Dana Osborne, chief of the UAS operations center, was inducted into the Order of Prometheus during the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International Pathfinder symposium March 19 at the Von Braun Center.
Osborne has been an Army civilian for 22 years, and all of it has been in the UAS Project Office.
"I've always loved what we do for the Soldier," Osborne said. She fell in love with the Army and the field of unmanned aircraft since the first day she started. "UAS is the hunting dog in front of the hunter, which keeps our Soldiers from being in harm's way. So, I'm thankful for what we do, and I try to make sure the job is always done right."
Being married to a Soldier, Osborne underscores the importance of ensuring that her and her team's efforts are completed in the most efficient way possible in order to field the necessary systems expediently to the Soldiers in the field.
"He (Rudy) has been in harm's way, so for me, it's also personal. My number one priority everyday in PM UAS is the Soldiers. I'm here until the job's done to make sure the Soldier gets what he needs."
The Order of Prometheus Medallion recognizes the significant and enduring contributions of the inductees to the unmanned systems community, both air and ground. Each inductee must have exemplified the highest ideals, aspirations and accomplishments in order to receive the honor.
Nine were inducted at the event, including retired project managers and TRADOC capability managers.
Retired Col. Stanly Souvenir, one of the inductees, was Osborne's first boss who hired her into UAS Project Office when he was the PM for the Hunter program. Retired Col. Jeff Kappenman, also an inductee, was the first UAS TRADOC capability manager.
"These are the people I hold to the highest standard, and so this is truly an honor to have even been considered, let alone selected for induction," Osborne said.
Osborne has been an active member of the Pathfinder Chapter and has been a board member and chapter secretary for the past 15 years. She is considered the go-to person for any issues needing solutions, and is highly regarded by her peers and superiors.
Osborne also volunteers for other nonprofit organizations and various community activities. She is continuously active in participating in community events and considers them all beneficial in helping the Redstone-Huntsville community.
"It's just my nature to get involved," Osborne said. Participating in community events also helps her to better understand the needs of the military community. "I meet a lot of our active and retired military at each of these events. It feels good to know that the little bit that I can do is contributing in some way to help Soldiers."
One of AUVSI Pathfinder's main objectives is supporting students in their educational endeavors. Last year, Pathfinder awarded more than $90,000 in scholarships. "Pathfinder just helped one group go to competition in Canada. It's an extension of the Army effort, which is to encourage and get these students interested in robotics early. They will be our future engineers who will help design the next UAS or ground robot for the Army," Osborne said.
Other inductees include Dr. Virginia "Suzy" Young, Dr. Jeff Cerny, Souvenir, Nick Yorio, John Grabowsky, Ted Girouard, retired Col. Jeff Kappenman and retired Lt. Col. Matt England.
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