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News | Oct. 29, 2021

Employee recognition, COVID-19 updates key topics at Troop Support commander’s town hall

By Mikia Muhammad DLA Troop Support Public Affairs

Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support employees tuned into a commander’s town hall event virtually and in-person Oct. 26 in Philadelphia.

Army Brig. Gen. Eric P. Shirley provided business and personnel updates to the workforce in addition to presenting individual and team awards.

"Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you do every day which is impactful around the world,” Shirley said. “I've been tremendously impressed with that consistent excellence over time."

Among those recognized was Medical Director of Supplier Operations Daniel Keefe, who earned the Defense Meritorious Civilian Service Award for his contributions to DLA Troop Support’s COVID-19 efforts. The award is the second highest civilian honor in the Department of Defense.

“When the DOD has a critical mission, when they have a ‘no-fail’ requirement, the go-to command has been the Defense Logistics Agency, and in turn Troop Support,” Shirley said. “We have the superstar performers here that get the mission done each and every time, and [that] certainly merits this level of recognition.”

Shirley also highlighted Troop Support’s contributions to DLA’s COVID-19 support in fiscal 2021.

“Without DLA Troop Support, I don’t know who would’ve done this for the nation,” Shirley said.

From a workforce perspective, Shirley discussed the organization’s future of work and introduced Troop Support Human Resources Customer Account Manager Katherine McMahon to talk about the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for federal employees.

McMahon recommended employees visit the constantly updated DLA Coronavirus Information website for further guidance and frequently asked questions.

Shirley acknowledged Troop Support’s accomplishments throughout fiscal year 2021, including year end sales of $21.5 billion, which made up 54% of DLA’s total sales.

“Hats off to all of you. You did this work,” Shirley said.

In closing, Shirley emphasized accomplishments across each supply chain, with encouragement to always “start with why.”

“Let’s never be over content with what we’ve achieved. We always need to focus how we can do it better for the warfighter,” Shirley said. “Not for sales, but at the end of the day, the reason that we’re here - start with why - is to provide world-class logistics support, prompt and uninterrupted sustainment to warfighters around the world.”

Employees can view the town hall here.