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News | Feb. 7, 2021

JRF Members Receive Awards

By Tech. Sgt. Zachary Wolf DLA JRF Public Affairs

Five Joint Reserve Force military members received awards after nominations went to Headquarters for Reservists of the Year and Officer Leadership Achievement. The winners were announced at the 53rd Defense Logistics Agency Employee Recognition Ceremony Jan. 28.

The Junior Enlisted Reservist of the Year Award went to Petty Officer 1st Class Salina Miller, Culinary Specialist. Some of the highlights of her performance were her involvement in Pacer Goose in Norfolk, Va., where she maintained training and readiness to respond to any crisis event. Miller also was key to the Rapid Deployment Readiness as the non-commissioned officer in charge of the Federal Emergency Management Agency Mission Support Team. Miller oversaw material turn-ins of 3,300 lines of serviceable materials valuing over $5 million.

The Senior Non-commissioned Officer Reservist of the Year was awarded to Master Sgt. Elijah Loughridge, DLA Aviation material management technician.

“Sergeant Loughridge demonstrated the top qualities required of today’s SNCOs: integrity, exemplary service, and a personal drive for excellence in all facets of life. In his role as a DLA Material Management Technician, he supports the supply needs of the Warfighter and is currently assigned to the DLA Aviation Joint Reserve Unit,” said Brigadier Gen. David Sanford, DLA JRF Aviation commander.

Loughridge accomplished himself as a lead trainer for Logistics Assistance Teams helping maintain mission success. He also coordinated a U.S. Air Force heritage event that honored 12 Tuskegee Airmen and more than 40 veterans.

Navy Lt. David Skinner won the Company Grade Officer Reservist of the Year. His accomplishments include serving as Watch Officer for Pacific Sentry Keen Edge 2020 and Night Action officer as a liaison between U.S. and Japan exercise management. Skinner also volunteers as a Boy Scout Troop leader and was key to getting his team working via teleworking during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Army Lt. Col. Dominick Versace won the Field Grade Officer Reservist of the Year. His actions included serving as DLA Distribution’s Chief of Transportation providing guidance for stateside and overseas travel. Versace helped DLA Distribution save potential millions of dollars in freight costs by working with General Services Administration. Versace also volunteers on the Freedom Bus which takes veterans from World War II to visit various monuments in Washington D.C.

Commander Catherine Krakuszeski was awarded the JRF Officer Leadership Achievement award. Under her leadership, as the Commanding Officer for the Expeditionary Distribution Unit in Norfolk, she ensured readiness and recruitment throughout the year. Krakuszeski also ensured joint integration of 22 sailors and seven airmen as commanding officer of the Expeditionary Distribution Support Unit. She led the team in inventory of over 92 thousand line items valuing more than $440 million.

The accomplishments of these award winners were read during the ceremony that premiered over video due to COVID-19 physical restraints.