Fort Worth, Texas — The American Association of Professional Landmen (AAPL), an organization of professional landmen working in the oil, gas and minerals related industries with approximately 11,000 members, announced at its 54th Annual Meeting and Conference June 11-14, in Chicago, Ill. the 2008 AAPL Award Winners.

The AAPL awards recognize the highest achievement in professional excellence by individuals, companies and affiliated local associations. By recognizing and showcasing the most outstanding examples of individual and group accomplishments each year, models for future growth and development are established, standards are raised and a common vision for the future is communicated.

Industry-renowned Leon Hirsch, CPL, Managing Vice President of Land & Business Development at Woodside Energy based in Houston, Texas., was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to the industry over his land career of more than 35 years and for his dedicated service to AAPL as a former president, director and chairman of numerous committees as well as his active role in the Houston Association of Professional Landmen and Petroleum Landman’s Association of New Orleans. Hirsch was also named AAPL Landman of the Year in 2002.

Vaughn O. Vennerberg, II, CPL, of Fort Worth, Texas, was recognized as the 2008 Landman of the Year for his proven leadership and contribution to the industry. Vennerberg has held numerous leadership roles in the Fort Worth Association of Professional Landmen and has chaired several committees for AAPL. Vennerberg is currently senior vice president of XTO Energy Inc., based in Fort Worth.

The Lafayette Association of Professional Landmen was named Local Association of the Year for its support of and communication to its membership and AAPL through its educational programs, networking opportunities and community service projects.