COLUMBUS, Ohio –
The Defense Logistics Agency Land and Maritime recognizes National American Indian Heritage Month each November. This is our second employee spotlight this month, honoring Native Americans’ enduring contributions to the agency’s global mission of logistics support to America’s warfighters.
What is your position title and role?
I serve as the deputy director of DLA Maritime Supplier Operations, I am responsible for the management of 1.6 million National Stock Numbers in support of the maritime based systems, parts and support equipment managed by DLA, which includes dedicated support to the Nuclear Reactor Program, Trident and Aviation Nuclear Enterprise weapon systems. I manage material planners, acquisition specialists, product specialists, resolution specialists and supply chain points of contact in the execution of order fulfillment, planning, technical/quality and acquisition functions in support of the warfighter.
What do you think about when you hear about National American Indian Heritage Month?
It’s an opportunity to share the rich history of Native Americans to raise awareness of the extensive culture, diversity and contributions that have been made to our society. Highlighting the past contributions is important, but being able to also discuss current and future contributions helps reinforce the successes and provides encouragement to the next generations.
Who are some people of American Indian heritage you admire?
In previous National American Indian Heritage Celebrations, the “warrior spirit” was highlighted as a key attribute to the culture, and the incredible contributions that have been provided in support of our military services. The significant history and continued support and call to service that this community provides is inspiring.
In your opinion, what challenges remain for American Indians today and how can understanding history help us to overcome them?
Ensuring access to opportunities for education and employment across diverse programs and careers so that current and future generations can share their talents and skills. History reflects the countless contributions in education, medicine, science, and the arts that Native Americans have provided over the centuries. Awareness and understanding of these contributions help to encourage future generations to tap into their unlimited potential.
How long have you worked for DLA Land and Maritime and how did you get your start here?
I have been employed at DLA Land and Maritime for almost thirty-two years starting in 1992 in the Outstanding Scholar Program right after I graduated from the University of Akron as an item manager. This program pre-dated today’s Pathways to Career Excellence program.
Who would you say was your greatest influence in choosing your career?
The greatest influence in choosing my DOD civilian career was my father, who was an Army veteran that always stressed the importance of civic responsibility. I never served in the military, but I always knew that I wanted to do something to support our country.
What is your favorite thing about your line of work?
Our mission to support the warfighter. We are very fortunate to be able to have something as important and critical to point to each and every day to motivate ourselves to do great things. I know that I have family and friends whose jobs don’t provide them the same level of satisfaction and fulfillment that DLA provides.
How has the Native American Culture influenced your life?
I do not have any direct Indian ancestry in my family, but I have always been interested by the ancestral linkage that is inherent in the Native American Culture. The emphasis and importance that family ancestors and elders have in the culture and family is inspiring. It has driven me to take more interest in my family’s genealogy to understand more about my family history.
What is the best piece of advice someone has given you?
The best advice given to me was to treat others with respect and how I would want to be treated. Before jumping to conclusions, you need to understand what it’s like to walk in someone’s shoes to understand their perspectives and challenges.
What personal accomplishments are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my family, having raised four beautiful girls that have grown to be outstanding, independent women that contribute to society in their own individual ways. I’m looking forward to being a grandparent some day!
If you could learn to master one thing, what would it be?
I would love to someday learn how to play the guitar or the piano because playing an instrument is far better than having others hear me sing.
What did you want to be when you grew up and why?
I wanted to be the starting second baseman for a major league baseball team or a professional golfer. I couldn’t think of a better way to make a living than to play a game that I loved. Unfortunately, I could not hit a breaking pitch and my golf game is terrible so those will forever continue to be on my wish list!
If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?
I am a huge sports fan and thoroughly enjoy attending games and events. I would love to be able to attend the Super Bowl, World Series, national championship games and major golf tournaments. I am always amazed at the skill level and performance of athletes especially when the stakes are so high in the biggest events.
What’s the most thrilling/adventurous thing you have ever done?
The most thrilling experience up to this point in my life has been skydiving. Jumping from a perfectly good operating plane doesn’t seem the most sane or rational thing to do, but the incredible adrenaline rush and excitement that results from it is unbelievable.
If you could pick a personal motto, what would it be?
Today is a gift and tomorrow is not promised, so make the best of each day!
Editor’s Note: The National American Indian Heritage Month observance has its roots in Public Law 99-471. In the intervening years, the observance was moved to different months until Public Law 101-343 set the observance in November. Please note that the title of this observance varies between agencies. The Department of Defense’s Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute uses the title set forth in the Public Laws, and that title is used at the beginning of this article to signify the DOD-wide observance. By Presidential Proclamation, the month is also observed as National Native American Heritage Month. In 1924, Congress enacted the Indian Citizenship Act extending citizenship to all U.S.-born American Indians not already covered by treaty or other federal agreements that granted such status. The act was later amended to include Alaska Natives, and as such, the month is also recognized as Native American/Alaskan Native Heritage Month.