PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. – International cooperation has made North American Aerospace Defense Command an unparalleled success, an example of ways in which the militaries of two nations can work together for the mutual benefit of both nations. In recognition of 50 years of such cooperation, Gen. Gene Renuart, commander of NORAD and U.S. Northern Command approved the re-naming of the Large Conference Room in NORAD and USNORTHCOM headquarters to the Partridge-Slemon Conference Room in honor of the first commander and first deputy of NORAD.
Naming the conference room as the Partridge-Slemon Conference Room offers command personnel and visitors the opportunity to recognize, understand and appreciate the heritage of partnership and enduring mission accomplishment of NORAD.
Although NORAD celebrated its 50th Anniversary on May 12, 2008, General Earl Partridge and Air Marshal Roy Slemon began day-to-day operations on Sept. 12, 1957. The ability of both nations to work together prior to the signing of the official agreement is a testimony to the personal relationship between Partridge and Slemon.
“These two men were very far-sighted,” said Mr. Patrick Murray of the NORAD and USNORTHCOM Command History Office.
According to Murray, Partridge and Slemon, “saw the value of mutual agreement and cooperation.
“They saw how both countries would profit with the mutually combined command.”
NORAD is wrapping up the summer-long celebration of its 50th anniversary. The bi-national command is responsible for aerospace detection and defense as well as maritime detection and warning for the air and sea approaches to the United States and Canada.
Formed in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, USNORTHCOM is responsible for homeland defense and defense support of civil authorities.