"It's not an exaggeration to say that the technologies created and built by Communication Systems-West have won battles for the United States and, equally as important, saved countless Americans' lives," Hatch said.

CSW President Curtis Brunson put it succinctly: "Saving lives and supporting our troops is really, really key."

Herbert praised the company for its excellence and its importance to U.S. defense needs. "It's not only that you're good, but what you do is important and it impacts all of us," Herbert said.

Hatch said the company's employee base is "the heart of this company. L-3's success could never have been attained without such dedicated, bright and loyal employees."

"It's your 50th birthday," the senator said. "You may have reached one milestone, but I am confident there are many more milestones and successes to achieve."

L-3's chief financial officer, Michael T. Strianese, commended CSW for its contribution in making L-3 the No. 6 U.S. defense contractor.

"We're very, very pleased to have you as a cornerstone division at L-3 Communications," Strianese said.

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E-mail: bwallace@desnews.com