William Wetzel Award

Description: The award, named for William J. Wetzel, is presented for outstanding support to the mission, vision and accomplishments of the Defense Intel Alumni Association. It celebrates Bill’s outstanding career of over 40 years in support of defense intelligence and US National Security requirements. Beginning as an Army Officer during the COLD WAR Bill served in a number of high profile assignments in Europe including Commander, Checkpoints Bravo and Charley in Berlin, Chief, Army Intelligence Production, Europe, and in the Defense Attaché Office in Helsinki, Finland. His final posting was with the Defense Intelligence Agency as Chief, Russia/Eurasia Forces Branch. He continued to serve after his retirement managing intelligence programs and operations for 16 years in the private sector. Bill’s contribution to DIAA is legendary. As a founding member of DIAA in 1998 he was instrumental in establishing its mission and vision and setting the direction for the new alumni association. Over the years Bill served in a number of leadership positions, including Vice President, and oversaw the planning and conduct of the bi-annual DIAA Luncheons and the election of new board of director members at the annual business meeting. Bill’s “Can Do” attitude and his ability to find “win-win” solutions to tough problems was an inspiration to all in the alumni association who came in contact with him. The William J. Wetzel Award is presented to individuals who have provided outstanding support to the Defense Intel Alumni Association.
Purpose: The William Wetzel Award recognizes professional excellence and exceptional dedication to duty in support of the DIAA mission and vision. The Award consists of a commemorative plaque engraved with the recipients’ name. This award will not necessarily be given annually but only on special occasions in recognition of exemplary and exceptional service.

THE 2023 WILLIAM J. WETZEL AWARD CITATION

Former DIA Director LTG (Ret.) Patrick Hughes is awarded the William J. Wetzel Award by the Defense Intel Alumni Association for his advocacy of DIAA's establishment 25 years ago, his post-retirement service as a member of the DIAA Board of Directors, and, since 2012, his service as a senior advisor to the board. DIAA could not have been founded without General Hughes' help. When the founders of DIAA met bureaucratic obstacles from within the DIA, he assisted them in overcoming reluctance and skepticism in order to build a legally recognized non-profit alumni group that has supported former and current DIA personnel for the past twenty-five years.
As senior advisor, General Hughes has consistently provided the board and, in particular, the DIAA presidents with encouragement and strategic guidance. He is always willing to lend a hand, provide realistic assessments, and make sound recommendations to enhance DIAA's support for its members and to DIA. General Hughes began his devotion to our nation's defense in 1962, when he enlisted in the US Army, and he never stopped serving throughout his many military and subsequent civilian years. He is the embodiment of the DIAA's motto, Still Serving in the Defense of the Nation.

2023 William J. Wetzel Award

LTG Patrick M. Hughes, USA (Ret.)

2022 William J. Wetzel Award

Marty Hurwitz

2021 William J. Wetzel Award

Judith Demulling

2019 William J. Wetzel Award

Fred King

2017 William J. Wetzel Award

Emmy Combs