Several Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support employees earned top honors for excellence in public service during an award ceremony in Philadelphia May 12.
During the annual Excellence in Government Awards, the Philadelphia Federal Executive Board presents gold, silver and bronze medals to local federal employees who exhibit outstanding commitment and dedication in their respective fields.
The DLA Troop Support Command Support Office’s Ricoh Multi-Functional Devices Support team won the gold medal in the Outstanding Administrative Support Accomplishment group category, which honors clerical, secretarial, or other administrative support employees whose exceptional performance significantly facilitated the work of others.
“It is an honor and a privilege to be recognized,” Crystal Ballard, a CSO management analyst said.
Ballard received the award on behalf of the Ricoh team, whose primary role is to manage all Ricoh printers within DLA Troop Support. The team saved more than $150,000 by doing the same routine maintenance responsibilities previously done by an outside contractor.
“Our team was diligent and dedicated throughout the entire process of taking over the duties,” Ballard said. “You move forward with a project, not knowing if the workforce would embrace it, and it becomes a success. It is a great accomplishment.”
In addition to the Ricoh team, other DLA Troop Support employees who received medals were:
- DoD National Contracts team, Medical supply chain – gold medal – Economy in Government Operations (group)
- Shade Integrated Product team, Clothing and Textiles supply chain – gold medal- Outstanding Technical Support Accomplishment
- Special Measurements team, C&T supply chain – bronze medal – Outstanding Technical Achievement
- Josephine Bochiechio-Pace, DLA Troop Support Europe and Africa – bronze medal – Outstanding Administrative Support Accomplishment (individual)
- Kenneth Gunn, C&T branch chief – bronze medal – Supervisory Achievement
- Cynthia Mitchell-Riley, a Construction and Equipment customer liaison specialist – bronze medal – Improved Federal Image
- Interview First Responders team – bronze medal – Valor
Dozens of DLA employees who were also nominated in various categories received “Distinguished Nominee” certificates.
During the award ceremony, the FEB Partners in Equality also honored individuals who have made significant contributions to diversity and equality in the workforce.
William Kenny, DLA Troop Support acquisition executive, was awarded the Senior Leadership award, presented to the agency executive who has helped the agency achieve success in equal employment and diversity programs.
Suzan Cohen, a C&E branch supervisor, received the Individual Leadership – Supervisor/Manager award.
All the nominees strive to meet high ideals, provide excellent customer service and to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars, Lisa Makosewski, FEB director, said.
“You are all winners, determined by your agency to represent the best of the best in all Philadelphia federal agencies,” she said.
“Be proud of what you have accomplished,” Makosewski said. “Continue to do what you do. Continue to strive for excellence.”
The FEB Excellence in Government Awards is held annually in conjunction with Public Service Recognition Week.