The Department of Energy has a long tradition of recognizing outstanding contributions to the field of nuclear security, and this year is no exception. The Office of Enterprise Assessments announced that Joshua Miller of Idaho National Laboratory’s Safeguards and Security training department is the esteemed recipient of the 2023 Colonel Sydnor Memorial Award.
The award is named after Col. Elliot P. “Bud” Sydnor, a man who dedicated over six decades of his life to serving the United States, first in the Army and later within DOE. Starting at the Savannah River Site in 1983, Sydnor helped elevate DOE’s protective force to operational security forces. Among his notable achievements was the establishment of the Composite Adversary Team program, which is a formidable opposition during security evaluations, setting a high benchmark within the nuclear security community.
The award pays tribute to Sydnor’s legacy by recognizing a Composite Advisory Team member who exemplifies the highest standards of physical fitness, tactical skill, character and leadership – qualities Sydnor embodied and promoted throughout his career.
Miller represents these values to their fullest. In his current position as a technical trainer, he passes on his experience to other officers, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge to address a wide range of potential situations. His commitment to training others, both at INL and across DOE sets him apart as a leader and master of his craft.
Miller is the fifth Sydnor honoree from INL since the award’s creation in 2014. His INL colleagues have expressed their admiration and respect for his accomplishments. Safeguards and Security Training Manager James Rigoulot, who has known Miller since the early 2000s, said it was inevitable that Miller would receive the award given his exceptional performance and integrity. “He has always been a fantastic person, an outstanding teammate and natural leader. I’m very proud of him!”
Sherman Campbell, mission support division director, praised Miller’s ability to embody INL’s values and lauded his excellence across all work responsibilities. Campbell said, “It’s a privilege to have Josh as a part of the Safeguards and Security training team! I am not surprised with this accomplishment and am pleased that he is being recognized formally by DOE leadership across the complex.”
Brett Westergard, manager of training delivery/live fire range complex, first encountered Miller at a Christmas party before Miller joined INL Protective Force in 2004. Westergard commended Miller’s growth in both physical stature and mental acumen, culminating in his evolution into an exemplary leader. Westergard highlighted Miller’s valuable contributions to the training department since 2022. “He has been great at bringing his knowledge, skills and abilities gained throughout his carrier to positively influence all the INL security police officers,” Westergard said.
Miller received the Colonel Sydnor Memorial Award in a ceremony held in Idaho Falls on June 20. This recognition is not only a testament to Miller’s dedication and skill but is a reminder of the enduring impact of Sydnor’s contributions to DOE and the field of nuclear security.
The award and this year’s recipient underscore the importance of leadership, preparedness and excellence in the ongoing effort to maintain and enhance the security of the United States’ nuclear enterprise. Congratulations to Miller for his outstanding achievements and for carrying forward Sydnor’s legacy.
