"No individual builds anything worthwhile by his efforts alone." This statement was the philosophy of Lloyd Noble and the guiding principle behind the development of what has become one of the leading independent energy companies in the United States - Noble Energy, Inc.

Noble Energy has explored for, produced and marketed crude oil and natural gas for nearly three-quarters of a century. Lloyd Noble founded Samedan Oil Corporation in southern Oklahoma in 1932, a time when the U.S. oil and gas industry was new and many new oil discoveries were being made. By the 1970s, the company, known then by the parent name Noble Affiliates Inc, had three distinct business lines - oil and gas exploration (Samedan Oil Corporation), drilling (Noble Drilling Corporation), and trucking (B. F. Walker).

In 1972, Noble Affiliates began trading as a public company, and in 1980, it was listed on the New York Stock Exchange with the ticker symbol of NBL. In 1984, the trucking company was sold, and the drilling company subsidiary was spun off to shareholders in 1985. The remaining business focused on exploration, production and the marketing of energy.

Reflecting its broadening focus on energy, including the production and marketing of methanol and power, Noble Affiliates changed its name to Noble Energy, Inc. in April of 2002. The new name highlights the company's continuing commitment to Lloyd Noble's philosophy and guiding principle, while emphasizing its diverse energy businesses as the springboard for innovation and profitable growth.

Noble Energy's historical performance has been excellent, with reserves growing more than 460 percent over the past 15 years. The company is recognized for its innovation, flexibility and exploration proficiency and for its initiative and technical capability in developing offshore reserves.

Noble Energy was one of the first independent producers to explore in the Gulf of Mexico, helping shape the industry and providing a path for its own future success. Most recently, Noble Energy has had a series of international exploration successes, none more impressive than its world class Mari-B discovery offshore Israel - the first significant hydrocarbon resource for that country.

These and subsequent innovations, coupled with an experienced management team with strength in exploration, drilling and production operations have led Noble Energy to become one of the most formidable players in the energy industry. To help guide the company into a new century of record performance, Charles Davidson was appointed president and CEO in October of 2000. With 30 years of experience leading energy companies, Davidson brings a new perspective and a vision that will transform opportunity into profitable growth for Noble Energy.

Recognizing Houston as home to the energy industry, Noble Energy relocated in October of 2000 from Ardmore, Oklahoma, and quickly established roots within the Houston community. Building on a legacy of collaboration and civic involvement, the company seeks and supports constructive partnerships that share opportunity and success. Noble Energy is committed to corporate social responsibility in its hometown as well as in the communities in which it operates.

Noble Energy operates in major basins in the U.S., principally offshore in the Gulf of Mexico and onshore in the Gulf of Mexico region. Internationally, the company operates in Argentina, China, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, the Mediterranean Sea and the North Sea.

While oil and gas will continue to be essential sources of energy for the world economy, innovation on finding additional reserves will be the key to Noble Energy's success. Looking forward, Noble Energy will be focused on exploring and developing its deep shelf and deepwater asset portfolio, with greater emphasis placed on onshore Gulf Coast crude oil and natural gas plays. Perhaps the largest growth potential for Noble Energy will be in major international projects and basins.

Noble Energy is as much about teamwork today as it was in 1932. The people of Noble Energy are the cornerstone of its success. The company has fostered a culture that encourages individual and corporate integrity and rewards consistent, cooperative efforts. Ingenuity and mutual respect remain the lifeblood of the organization and will be the impetus in solidifying Noble Energy's leading position in the global and integrated energy market.