Dr. James Roche, the secretary of the Air Force, was among several dignitaries at an Oct. 9 ceremony marking the completion of Space Launch Complex 37, the launch facility for the Delta IV.

According to Boeing officials, the ceremony marked the completion of the final element of the new complex -- the launch pad itself. SLC-37 will enable Boeing to prepare a Delta IV launch vehicle in fewer than 30 days from its arrival from the factory, reducing on-pad time to about 10 days, significantly reducing costs. The Delta IV team started development in October 1998 and will culminate with its first launch on May 2002.

Roche saluted the EELV program as a government and industry success story. He said the new complex enhances America's access to space and provides increased operational flexibility.

"The EELV program is about teamwork," said Roche. "The EELV program's success is predicated on thinking differently, not only about rocket design, but also the manufacturing, transportation, assembling and launch processes."

Darleen Druyun, principal deputy assistant secretary of the Air Force for acquisition and management, echoed Roche's sentiments about the government, industry partnership. "Together we've brought substantial and fundamental change to space launch in record time, she said. "It's a magnificent accomplishment."

Roche said his attendance was a signal to terrorists that they won't disrupt American lives or operations.

"We will continue doing the business of the country and won't be threatened by any group," he said.

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