JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska –
Defense Logistics Agency Energy Americas North welcomed Air Force Maj. Bart Land in an Assumption of Command ceremony at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, June 24.
“We are excited to welcome Maj. Land and his wonderful family to the DLA Energy Americas Team,” said DLA Energy Americas Commander Army Col. Raphael Heflin who presided over the virtual ceremony.
In his remarks, Heflin singled out Randy Banez, the Americas North deputy, who served as the acting commander for several weeks ensuring continued mission success between the gap in commanders.
“Thank you, Randy, for ensuring that Americas North never wavered in support of our customers,” Heflin said. “Your efforts and professionalism continue to be invaluable and truly impactful for the Americas Team.”
Air Force Maj. Marcus McWilliams relinquished command of DLA Energy Americas North May 18. Banez served as the acting commander until Land assumed command.
“Command is a privilege and an opportunity not provided to all officers,” said Land in his remarks. “I’m truly grateful that DLA Energy has bestowed on me this great responsibility.”
Land is a third-generation military officer with his grandfathers both serving in World War II, one as a Navy Supply Corps officer, and one was a Bomber Navigator in the Army Air Corps. Land joined the U.S. Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps while attending Oregon State University where he graduated Cum Laude with a Business Administration degree. He also holds a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Chapman University in Fairfield, California.
Land was previously the logistics plans branch chief at U.S. Indo-Pacific Command in Hawaii.
“Bart, you have a proven track record and I know you will carry Americas North to even greater heights,” Heflin said. “As I do with all regional commanders, I charge you with making a positive difference every day by caring for our valued workforce; maintaining a climate of dignity, respect, and inclusion; keeping the organization ready to respond to regional emergencies; and owning the mission of supporting the warfighter.”
DLA Energy Americas is divided into three offices: DLA Energy Americas North in Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska; DLA Energy Americas East at Houston, Texas; and DLA Energy Americas West at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, California.