SAN PEDRO, California –
Defense Logistics Agency Energy Americas at San Pedro bade farewell to Air Force Lt. Col. Justin Settles during a change of command ceremony aboard the Battleship USS Iowa Museum, San Pedro, California, June 20.
After two years in command, Settles returned to the Air Force serving in the Republic of Korea.
“It was a true pleasure to work with (Lt. Col.) Settles for the last two years,” said DLA Energy Americas at San Pedro Deputy Director John Phinisey. “I wish him all the best as he heads off to Korea and another commander’s tour of duty.”
Navy Cmdr. Michael Wilson took command of DLA Energy Americas at San Pedro. His previous assignment was at Logistics Group Western Pacific, Task Force 73, in Singapore as the logistics deputy assistant chief of staff in charge of operational control of all 7th Fleet Combat Logistics Force.
“(Cmdr.) Wilson comes to us with an extensive petroleum management background serving tours at (Naval Supply Systems Command) Fleet Logistics Center Jacksonville as the regional fuel director for the southeastern United States and with NAVSUP Energy as the deputy director in support of the Navy and Marine Corps petroleum supply chains,” Phinisey said.
DLA Energy Americas Commander Army Col. Craig Simonsgaard presided over the ceremony. He presented Settles the Defense Meritorious Service Medal for his superlative efforts and offered Wilson a few words of confidence and wisdom as he took command.
“I look forward to him gaining a greater and deeper understanding of the DLA Energy mission,” Simonsgaard said. “His fuels experience and leadership will pave the way in supporting the warfighters’ unique requirements.”
More than 50 people attended the joint service ceremony representing not only DLA Energy Americas at Houston and San Pedro but also Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach and petroleum industry suppliers and partners.
Wilson thanked everyone for attending the ceremony.
“It was a remarkable ceremony aboard one of the most historic battleships of our nation with three services represented (U.S. Navy, Air Force and Army),” Wilson said. “I look forward to working with such a dynamic team that understands what is at stake.”
He also extended a special appreciation to the mission support team for their hard work and successful execution of the ceremony.