WASHINGTON, Oct. 8, 2008 /PRNewswire/ -- The Association of the United States Army (AUSA) has chosen Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) Chairman and CEO William H. Swanson as the 2008 recipient of its prestigious John W. Dixon Award. The award is presented annually for outstanding contributions to national defense by a member of the industrial community.

The Association chose Swanson for 'being a loyal and ardent supporter of AUSA and a dynamic force in the defense industry, working tirelessly on behalf of our men and women in uniform,' the citation accompanying his award stated. He received the award at the AUSA Sustaining Members' Reception and Luncheon, where more than 700 attendees were present, including senior leaders from the defense industry, the U.S. Army, the Department of Defense and Congress.

'On behalf of the 72,000 people of Raytheon -- many of whom are veterans and some of whom have been activated and are serving their country now on active duty -- thank you for this honor,' said Swanson. 'It is a privilege to support the men and women of the United States Army.'

Raytheon Company, with 2007 sales of $21.3 billion, is a technology leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 86 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 72,000 people worldwide.

    Contact:
    David Albritton
    703.284.4353
    david.albritton@raytheon.com

SOURCE Raytheon Company