Welcome everyone.

It is with great pride that I congratulate and thank each of our 2020 Gold, Silver, and Bronze recipients of the 72nd Honor Awards.

This year’s awardees apply their talents and expertise across a broad range of programs, tools, and services on behalf of American businesses, workers, and families.

Since 1949, the Department of Commerce has honored its best employees with these prestigious awards recognizing distinguished, exceptional, and meritorious contributions to the Department.

And this year, I am proud to award those who rose to protect and promote U.S. economic growth and competitiveness in the face of unprecedented challenges to your mission.

I am grateful for your extraordinary dedication and initiative to going above and beyond what is required of you.

Our nation’s strength, security, and prosperity depend on the work you do.

• You are on the frontlines opening markets for U.S. companies and workers;
• You're engaged in cutting edge research;
• You facilitate the safety, ease, and efficiency of Decennial Census;
• You monitor the seas and the skies;
• You encourage innovation and entrepreneurship;
• You facilitate resources for distressed communities; and
• You protect sensitive American technologies.

The United States remains the best place in the world to live thanks in no small part to your sacrifice, your outstanding accomplishments, and your success advancing the Commerce Department’s mission.

It is helping now during our economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, right when we need it most.

I am so proud of the work that you do.

And on behalf of President Trump, the Department of Commerce, and the American people, I thank our Awardees for your commitment, and for modeling true excellence in public service.

Congratulations once again.