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NATIONAL SECURITY AGENCY
CENTRAL SECURITY SERVICE

FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, MARYLAND 20755-6000

NSA PRESS RELEASE
30 May 2006
For further information contact:
NSA Public and Media Affairs, 301-688-6524

NSA/CSS Memorial Day Observance Honors Cryptologic Heroes, Past and Present

On 30 May 2006, LTG Keith B. Alexander, USA, Director, National Security Agency/Chief, Central Security Service, paid special tribute to SSG Edwin H. DazaChacon, USA, and SGT Amanda N. Pinson, USA, during the Agency's annual Memorial Day Observance. The service was attended by family, friends, and distinguished guests.

SSG DazaChacon was a cryptologic linguist serving in the United States Army in the 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group. He perished in February 2006 when an improvised explosive device detonated near his Humvee in central Afghanistan.

SGT Pinson was a cryptologist serving in the United States Army in the 101st Airborne Division, Task Force Band of Brothers. She lost her life in March 2006 when a single mortar round exploded near Division Headquarters north of Baghdad, Iraq.

The ceremony included a traditional wreath laying and the unveiling of the names "SSG Edwin H. DazaChacon" and "SGT Amanda N. Pinson" on the NSA/CSS Cryptologic Memorial Wall. The wall, dedicated in 1996, lists the names of 156 Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine, and civilian cryptologists who have made the ultimate sacrifice, "serving in silence," in the performance of their duties since World War II.

Additional information on the Memorial Wall and special historical monographs highlighting SSG DazaChacon's and SGT Pinson's life, service, and sacrifice can be viewed via the NSA/CSS website at /about/cryptologic_heritage/memorial_wall/index.shtml.

NOTE: Media outlets interested in receiving photographs from the ceremony or additional information should contact the NSA Public and Media Affairs Office at the number above.