NDIA Honors Gen. Chance Saltzman and TSgt Jordan McCord at 42nd Annual Rocky Mountain Ball

ARLINGTON, Va – The spotlight was on service and excellence in space and defense as the National Defense Industrial Association’s (NDIA) Rocky Mountain Chapter celebrated the 42nd Annual Rocky Mountain Ball on May 30, 2025, in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Gen. B. Chance Saltzman, Chief of Space Operations for the U.S. Space Force, received the General James V. Hartinger Award, recognizing his visionary leadership and major contributions to advancing the U.S. military space mission.

Tech. Sgt. Jordan A. McCord of U.S. Space Command received the 2025 Patriot of the Year Award for his exceptional leadership, service, and unwavering dedication to national security and community.

The event welcomed a dynamic mix of attendees, including active-duty and retired military personnel, senior officials from the Department of Defense, international partners from Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, and defense industry leaders from across the country.

Hosted by the NDIA Rocky Mountain Chapter, proceeds from the ball go toward STEM programs and scholarships that help build the future defense workforce, including hands-on experiences like Rocket Day and the Edge of Space program.

About NDIA

The National Defense Industrial Association is a nonpartisan, nonprofit association dedicated to strengthening the defense industrial base and supporting America’s warfighters. The Rocky Mountain Chapter plays a key role in connecting regional military, industry, and academic partners.