The Dr. Kurt H. Debus Award Dinner included as speakers the first Shuttle crew from STS-1 John Young.

The 12th annual Dr. Kurt H. Debus Award Dinner included as speakers the first Shuttle crew from STS-1, John Young (left) and Robert Crippen (right). At the dinner, Center Director Roy Bridges received the 2001 Dr. Kurt H. Debus Award honoring his progressive, visionary leadership and contributions to space technology and exploration. The Florida Committee of the National Space Club presented the award. The Debus Award was first given in 1980. Created to recognize significant achievements and contributions made in Florida to the American aerospace effort, the award is named for the KSC’s first Director, Dr. Kurt H. Debus