Psychologist receives Harold Brown Award

Dr. John Caldwell (left) receives the 2005 Harold Brown Award from Secretary of the Air Force Michael W. Wynne during a Pentagon ceremony May 4. Dr. Caldwell was recognized for his research on the effects of fatigue and how Air Force pilots can counter it. (U.S. Air Force photo by Mickey W. Sanborn)

By Staff Sgt. Julie Weckerlein
Air Force Print News

WASHINGTON -- A research psychologist received the 2005 Harold Brown Award May 4 during a Pentagon ceremony here.

Secretary of the Air Force Michael W. Wynne presented the award to Dr. John Caldwell for his work in the biosciences and protection division, human effectiveness directorate, at the Air Force Research Laboratory at Brooks City-Base, Texas.

"I'm very proud to be here, presenting this award to Doctor Caldwell," Wynne said. "He's passionate at what he does, and it's phenomenal that we can recognize what physiology brings to the fight."

The award is named for the eighth secretary of the Air Force who later was the secretary of defense. It recognizes significant achievements in research and development, and is awarded to a researcher who has improved Air Force operational effectiveness.

Caldwell's research focused on the effects of fatigue on Air Force pilots and sought ways to combat sleepiness in order to increase performance. The results of his research brought about new fatigue countermeasures that are in use today.

Caldwell credited an expansive team of colleagues for their support and efforts, but saved most of the praise for one other individual.

"My wife, Lynne, is very much a part of this award," he said. "She's also a psychologist, and she wasn't disturbed by me being up at 4 a.m. (for research.) She was actually wide awake with me at 4 a.m., collecting data and gathering information."

He said he considers the award the pinnacle of his career.

"I'm so lucky to do a job I enjoy," he said. "It's a job that I think really has impact."