The Vicksburg National Military Park has been recognized, for the first time, for engaging and educating its visitors through myriad interpretive programs and new media technology.

The National Park Service’s Southeast Region presented the park with the 2009 Keeper of the Light Award for Interpretive and Educational Excellence during their annual leadership conference in April in Atlanta.

“I view the award as a recognition of our hard work,” said park Superintendent Michael Madell, who accepted the trophy on behalf of the park. “It’s a reminder to us that we have to work hard and improve our programs.”