SYRACUSE, N.Y., Aug. 25, 2025 – Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) proudly announced today that Col. F. William (Bill) Smullen, U.S. Army (Ret.), has been selected as the 2025 Lockheed Martin Hometown Hero.

Now in its fourth year, the Hometown Hero Award honors Central New York military veterans and active-duty service members who have distinguished themselves through exceptional service to the nation and meaningful contributions to their communities.

“Lockheed Martin is honored to recognize our nation’s heroes for their selfless service,” said Rick Cordaro, vice president of Lockheed Martin's Radar and Sensor Systems. “Bill’s lifetime of service, both in uniform and as a leader in Central New York, reflects the values the Hometown Hero program was created to uphold. His dedication to duty, leadership and community impact make him an exemplary honoree.”

Smullen served more than 32 years in the U.S. Army and U.S. State Department, holding senior assignments at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the Pentagon, and completing two tours in Vietnam. He later served as special assistant to the 11th and 12th chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Adm. William Crowe and Gen. Colin Powell.

“It is indeed a high honor to have been selected for the 2025 Hometown Hero Award,” Smullen said. “There is no better role in life than to be a public servant. My 32 years in the Army and State Department, as well as 18 years as National Security Director at Syracuse University and as CEO of Clear Path for Veterans, allowed me to give back for all that life has given me. Thank you, Lockheed Martin.”

Beyond his military career, Smullen has remained a respected leader, author and mentor in Central New York. He has written extensively on leadership and mentoring and continues to inspire others through his dedication to civic engagement, education and public service.

In recognition of Smullen’s service and leadership, Lockheed Martin will donate $50,000 to Clear Path for Veterans, a nonprofit organization supporting veterans, service members and their families through programs that promote wellness, community connection and career development.

“We are incredibly grateful to Lockheed Martin for their generous support and ongoing commitment to those who have served our country,” said Alexander Behm, chief community officer at Clear Path for Veterans. “This gift will directly impact the lives of veterans and their families in Central New York and beyond. We also proudly congratulate Col. Bill Smullen on this well-earned recognition. His legacy of selfless service and leadership to our nation and community continues to inspire our work every day.”

Smullen will be formally recognized during Armed Forces Day at the New York State Fair, just prior to the Maddie & Tae concert at the Chevy Court stage.

About the Hometown Hero Program

As one of Central New York’s largest employers, Lockheed Martin is committed to honoring those who serve and have served. The Hometown Hero program recognizes military service members who have demonstrated excellence in service to the nation and who continue to inspire through volunteerism, mentorship, and leadership in their local communities.

About Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at lockheedmartin.com.

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Media Contact: 

Brittany Malone, +1 682 760 7189; brittany.g.malone@lmco.com