Several White Sands Missile Range employees were recognized during the first of the new year’s Honors and Retirement Ceremony Jan. 15 at the Post Theater.

White Sands Missile Range employees recognized at first Honors and Retirement Ceremony for 2026

Several White Sands Missile Range employees were recognized during the first of the new year’s Honors and Retirement Ceremony Jan. 15 at the Post Theater.

WSMR Commander Col. Andrew R. Morgan welcomed retirees, honorees, and family members to the recognition event.

“This is our opportunity to pause and publicly recognize the people who define this range,” Morgan said. “Your steadfast commitment and deep knowledge provide the continuity for us to tackle the generational change we’re facing in the Department of War,” Morgan told the employees being recognized.

Vanessa Flores, a Public Affairs Specialist, was one of the recipients of the Civilian Service Commendation Medal for her work with the My Army Post App.

“It is always nice to be recognized for your hard work and dedication to the mission,” Flores said.

Morgan and WSMR Command Sgt. Maj. Hermes F. Acevedo handed out certificates for length of service awards, Civilian Service Commendation Medals and Certificates of Retirement.

The following individuals were recognized as retirees: Anna Marie B. Cardon, Edward F. Croom, Belinda D. Copeland, Robert J. Konchalski, and Elizabeth N. Teague.

“You’ve given decades of your professional lives to this range and to the Nation,” Morgan said. “Your work has left an indelible mark that guides the next generation of Team WSMR. Thank you for your careers of distinguished service.”

Cardon was a vital asset at LC-38 supporting Patriot, culminating in her 38 years of service as an Office Administrative Assistant for Materiel Test Directorate.

Croom supported many customers as a Range Support Specialist from Holloman Air Force Base, Fort Bliss, and White Sands Space Port throughout his 15 years of service.

Copeland served Soldiers, families and Civilians in her career. She concluded her 11 years of service as a Management and Program Analyst in the WSMR G1.

Konchalski is a subject matter RAM expert, innovating and training the next generation of test conductors during his 43 years of service.

Teague’s innovation at Center for Counter Measures led her to key roles in programs as an Electronics Engineer (Test Conductor) with Materiel Test Directorate.

WSMR Public Affairs