FALLS CHURCH, Va., Feb. 3, 2012 -- This week, the Smithsonian unveiled its Heritage and History education initiative for 2012, titled the National Air and Space Museum presents a "Heritage Family Day" series celebrating ethnic and cultural diversity. Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) is sponsoring this series for the seventh consecutive year, and the company has signed on to support the program through 2014.

The series coincides with national observances, focusing specifically on the contributions that diverse communities have made to aviation and space exploration. These activity-filled days take place at the National Air and Space Museum's National Mall building and the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. On these days, parents and children will meet role models—ranging from World War II pilots to astronomers—who inspire future generations to consider careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

"Northrop Grumman has been supporting STEM education and programs that explore culture, heritage and ethnic diversity for many years now, and I am pleased that the Smithsonian has been a true partner for much of that time," said Sandra Evers-Manly, vice president of corporate responsibility. "We maintain a strong commitment to programs that improve education and promote cultural awareness and diversity."

The series begins Feb. 11 with "African American Pioneers in Aviation Day" at the National Mall building. Visitors can meet members of the Tuskegee Airmen, African-American pilots who flew during WWII and became an inspiration to the nation due to their determination and perseverance. On Feb. 25, the second "African American Pioneers in Aviation Day" will be held at the museum's Udvar-Hazy Center.

For more information about the museum's "Heritage Family Day" series, including times and locations, visit: http://www.nasm.si.edu/events/heritagedays.cfm .

Other events from the "Heritage Family Day" series include:

Kites of Asia - Experience the beauty and artistry of kites from Japan on the occasion of the centennial of Japan's gift of cherry trees to Washington, DC.

Explore the Universe Day – Everybody Looks Up! Understand how different cultures see the sky. Learn about telescopes and do some daytime observations (weather permitting).

A Century of Women in Aerospace - Meet women who are today's role models and hear about the women who inspired them.

Hispanic Innovators in Aerospace - Hear about Latin Americans' contributions to aviation and space. Some activities will be conducted in Spanish and be presented in collaboration with the Smithsonian Latino Center.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems and technical services to government and commercial customers worldwide. Please visit www.northropgrumman.com for more information. 

  CONTACT: Margaret Mitchell-Jones
         Northrop Grumman Corporation
         (703) 280-2739
         m.mitchell-jones@ngc.com