ACES Award

The ACES award was conceived in concept and initiated in 1995 by COL (Ret) Leon “Moose” Albin. Colonel Albin started his Army career in 1932 in the National Guard. He was rapidly promoted to the grade of Master Sergeant.

Receiving a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers at the start of the Second World War, he served with distinction in the Pacific Theater of Operations and was recognized as one of the most capable combat engineers to come out of that conflict. He has commanded the 1st, 17th, and 547th Engineer Battalions. Impressive field and command experience led him to become one of the Corps of Engineers experts on doctrine and equipment development.

After retiring from military service and entering the Department of the Army Civilian Service during the Vietnam War, his Army engineering achievements continued. Colonel Albin remained a tireless volunteer Director with the AEA until his death in October 1998.

Colonel Albin’s considerable time as an Engineer Commander convinced him that a unit’s reputation and combat effectiveness will depend upon the abilities of the Squad Leaders to accomplish the mission and take care of the soldiers.