Building connections with Kuwait and Oman suppliers and industry partners, Defense Logistics Agency Energy liaison officers conducted site visits in April to learn more about challenges and unique energy needs of the Middle East region.
DLA Energy LNOs Devon Williams, Jermon Henry and Chris Ricketson roles are to build communication and cooperation that facilitate a close working relationship with our customers, suppliers and industry partners.
“One of the biggest things we can do is to be there, alongside our customers and suppliers, where they need us,” said DLA Energy Commander Air Force Brig. Gen. Jimmy Canlas. “Trust is built through habitual relationships and begins with understanding their priorities and listening to their feedback.”
Williams, the current DLA Energy LNO to Kuwait, accompanied Henry and provided introductions to customers at Defense Fuel Support Points Camp Buehring, Ali Al Salem and Al Jaber between April 15-20. This was followed by a visit to the Kuwait Gulf Link Transportation Company, the contracted transportation provider, on April 21.
“Building and maintaining customer relationships are key functions of an LNO,” Williams said. “We are assigned to countries and are their direct link to help them meet their energy needs.”
Topics covered during the visits included administration, fuel quality/lab responsibilities, inventory and accountability, safety, maintenance and the overall condition and standards of the facilities.
“The visits went very well. The on-site teams were very receptive and supportive providing a thorough tour and overview,” Williams said. “We do spot checks frequently, but these particular visits were an opportunity for Jermon to learn about regional capabilities.”
DLA Energy LNO in Oman, Ricketson, made a joint site visit to Al Musanah Airbase with representatives from the Royal Air Force of Oman on April 21. Attendees conducted a walkthrough of Air Force Jet Bulk Fuel Distribution System and conducted physical inventory and quantity determination.
“This visit was focused on preparing to adjust inventory levels over the next year and to discuss operational capabilities of the facility,” Ricketson said. “The visit went well. The facility is clean and workers were conducting maintenance on the facility as well as preparing for upcoming fuel filter changes.”
The team reviewed recent quality assurance processes including recirculation of product through filtration, monthly water removal, and semi-annual sampling and testing by DLA contract laboratory.
In addition to liaison officers in the Middle East, DLA Energy has supplier advocates, industry engagement professionals, and customer relationship managers who are dedicated to meeting the contracting, supply chain management, transportation, and petroleum quality needs of our customers.
The DLA Customer Interaction Center is staffed with knowledgeable agents who are available to answer questions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including government holidays. You can reach the Customer Interaction Center via phone at 1-877-DLA-CALL (1-877-352-2255) or DSN CONUS/OCONUS: 877-352-2255 or through email at dlacontactcenter@dla.mil.