OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma –
Arthur Purnell, a material examiner and identifier for Central Receiving at DLA Distribution Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, was named DLA Distribution Employee of the Quarter for the first quarter of fiscal year 2017.
Purnell is responsible for the storing, delivering and hauling of over 550 Air Force aircraft engines valued over $1.2 billion at Tinker Air Force Base. Additionally, he is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the $23.2 million facility where the engines are stored.
Purnell has extensive knowledge of Air Force policy and procedures, enabling him to haul engines safely and properly. His experience allows him the ability to think quickly and troubleshoot issues as they arise.
“Mr. Purnell is one of the most responsible, self-motivating and mission-oriented employees and is always looking out for his peers, their health and safety and the best interest of the distribution center,” said Purnell’s supervisor, Carolyn Coker. “Also, with the beginning of a new fiscal year, the workload increased for engine movement. Mr. Purnell stepped up to the challenge and moved three times the normal amount, and is always willing to go the extra mile to accomplish the mission.”
Furthermore Purnell’s customer service skills and relationships with the local and off-base customers is remarkable, says Coker. His professionalism is always apparent whether training new personnel or dealing with Air Force personnel.
Spending over 70 percent of his day on the road traveling at least 40 miles in a tug hauling engines at five miles an hour, Purnell always exhibits his knowledge in safety rules and regulations. In the last 365 days and in previous years, he has maintained a perfect safety record with zero accidents, incidents or injuries.
Additionally, the $23 million storage facility he maintains also had no major safety violations during annual fire and safety inspections. His positive attitude during Voluntary Protection Plan days have assisted in ensuring a safe work environment.
“Mr. Purnell is a true team player, and has earned praise from all 40 personnel in Central Receiving,” said Coker. “We are all very proud to have him on our team, and he truly deserves ‘Employee of the Quarter’.”