The OSINT Foundation, the premier professional association of Intelligence Community (IC) open-source intelligence (OSINT) professionals, held its inaugural awards reception on November 3rd, in a grand celebration of the remarkable achievements in OSINT. Launched in 2022, the OSINT Foundation is dedicated to promoting OSINT tradecraft, elevating the discipline, and building a strong practitioner community, all for the greater advancement of the national security of the United States.
OSINT Awards from the Association
The evening, marked by a spirit of recognition and camaraderie, honored not just individuals but also IC organizations whose tireless efforts have significantly enhanced the United States’ national security. The winners in various categories stood out for their outstanding contributions and dedication.
Shawn Porter, 312th Military Intelligence Battalion, U.S. Army
Mr. Porter was awarded the prestigious LTC Ed Waller IC OSINT Practitioner of the Year, a recognition of his exceptional service to the nation, substantial contributions to the OSINT discipline, and his mentorship of fellow OSINT practitioners.
Marine Corps Intelligence Activity, Open-Source Intelligence Branch:
The Marine Corps Intelligence Activity’s Open-Source Intelligence Branch received the Dr. Graham Turbiville IC OSINT Unit of the Year Award for their exceptional impact on national security and significant contributions to the OSINT discipline.
NGA Tearline and University of Mississippi
The OSINT Product of the Year honor was jointly presented to NGA Tearline and the University of Mississippi for their remarkable product, titled “China’s Interests in Montenegro: Alternative Analysis Case Study.” This award is reserved for a completed OSINT product that has demonstrated extraordinary value to the nation. The winning product exhibited effective OSINT tradecraft and served as an exemplar of a high-quality OSINT product.
Abel Vandegrift, Authentic8
A new addition to the roster of Foundation awards this year, the OSINT Foundation Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Mr. Abel Vandegrift, in recognition of his outstanding service to the OSINT Foundation and the OSINT discipline.
Celebrating the OSINT Profession in the IC
Barbara Alexander, President of the OSINT Foundation, underscored the importance of these awards in acknowledging the growing professionalization and maturation of the OSINT profession, positioning it as a pivotal discipline within the Intelligence Community. Moreover, she revealed that 100% of the proceeds from the evening’s ticket sales would be directed towards the Foundation’s scholarship fund. This fund sponsors two annual scholarships for students pursuing undergraduate degrees with an interest in OSINT and a career in national security. In an exciting development, the Foundation announced plans to introduce a graduate scholarship next year, supporting OSINT professionals pursuing advanced degrees.
The awards reception was attended by over 120 distinguished guests, who were treated to a captivating keynote address by Lieutenant General Laura Potter, the U.S. Army Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, G-2. The event was graced by key representatives from the honored organizations, including Colonel Bradley Bean, USMC, Commander of the Marine Corps Intelligence Activity, and Command Sergeant Major Kyle Gillam, U.S. Army, of the Intelligence and Security Command.
Wrapping up the evening, Lieutenant General Ron Burgess (U.S. Army, retired), former Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency and OSINT Foundation Advisory Board member, shared some closing remarks. The event was hosted by BAE Systems at its Falls Church, VA facility.
This inaugural awards reception sheds light on the significant contributions and advancements within the field of OSINT and its vital role in the United States’ national security apparatus.
