The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) celebrated its 50th anniversary Monday.

NORAD originally stood up at Ent Air Force Base, Colo., on September 12, 1957. However, the official agreement between the Canadian and U.S. governments that created the command was signed on May 12, 1958.

"The success of NORAD is due to the thousands of men and women over the past 50 years who dedicated themselves to the service of defending Canada and the United States," said Mike Perini, NORAD public affairs director.

"Today, the men and women of NORAD are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days week, 365 days a year guarding the things we value most: our loved ones, our liberties and our peace of mind."

NORAD celebrated with a Golden Jubilee Ball Monday night at the Broadmoor Hotel. U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates was the speaker.

To find out more about NORAD's 50th Anniversary plans and activities, click on the link below.