When DoD decided to vaccinate all U.S. forces against anthrax, the Joint Program Office for Biological Defense chose Noblis, as an independent, unbiased third party, to oversee the testing of the existing DoD stockpile of anthrax vaccine. The purpose of the testing was to ensure that the vaccine met FDA requirements for safety, purity, sterility and potency before being released for use. Noblis staff observed every step of the testing program and evaluated the test results, as well as laboratory procedures and quality assurance, in determining whether the vaccine met the FDA requirements. Drawing upon our expertise in chemistry, microbiology, and quality assurance, we also worked with the vaccine manufacturer to assist the testing laboratory in refining the tests to make them more efficient.