Dr. Ron Miller ('65) is chief of the Directed Energy Weapons (DEW) Branch of the U.S. Missile and Space Intelligence Center (MSIC), Redstone Arsenal, Ala. His job requires him to stay on top of the latest developments in laser weapons and technology, particle beam weapons and radio frequency weapons. He and his employees use their knowledge of physics and engineering principles, along with information gathered by the intelligence community, to learn about the weapons systems of foreign countries. They also study how the U.S. can compete against such weaponry.

Miller received the prestigious National Intelligence Medal of Achievement for his leadership of U.S. and Allied DEW intelligence analysis over the past eight years. He is careful when he talks about what he has done to receive the award since much of his work is classified information. The award is presented by the director of Central Intelligence for "especially meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service by a member of the Intelligence Community. Recognizing performance of an especially difficult duty in a clearly exceptional manner, the service must relate directly to the Intelligence Community's mission to provide the intelligence required for national security policy determinations."

The award was presented to Miller June 4 at CIA Headquarters at Langley, Va. "It really is a high honor," Miller says, "much like a (Presidential) cabinet honor since the director of the CIA is of cabinet rank."

Miller received the award before a standing-room-only crowd of hundreds in the domed auditorium of CIA Headquarters. The Marine Corps String Quartet played and the Joint Armed Forces Color Guard presented the colors during the ceremony.

Miller says his job is different since the end of the "Cold War" as his department scrambles to stay on top of an ever-changing global situation since the downfall of the former Soviet Union has led to what Miller refers to as "general chaos" on the world's military weapons scene.

He continues as a member of the DEW Subcommittee, a leg of the U.S. Weapons and Space Systems Intelligence Committee, since stepping down as chair a year ago. He previously served as U.S. Head of Delegation, meeting with the Quadripartite Working Parties, intelligence committees from Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom. Members of the subcommittee share intelligence analysis and come to an agreed position on foreign threats.

The next time you hear the James Bond theme, just remember not all spies are out there in tuxedos, drinking martinis "shaken not stirred."