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News | July 17, 2020

DLA Energy Korea welcomes new commander

By Connie Braesch DLA Energy Public Affairs

Defense Logistics Agency Energy Korea welcomed a new commander during a virtual change of command ceremony at Camp Walker, Daegu, July 15. 

Army Lt. Col. Craig Daniel relinquished command to Army Lt. Col. Jose Medina as friends, family and colleagues watched on video. 

“To the entire team of 22 strong that make up DLA Energy Korea, your efforts and accomplishments are absolutely first class,” Daniel said. “The last two years have been memorable for me both personally and professionally. Thank you all for the dedication you provide on a daily basis.”

DLA Indo-Pacific Commander Navy Capt. Jason Adams presided over the ceremony from DLA Indo-Pacific headquarters at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. In his remarks, Adams praised Daniel for his leadership and professionalism. 

“Truly an amazing tour leading the DLA Energy Korea team. And thank you for being a phenomenal leader, keeping those lines of communication open and synchronizing across the entire area of responsibility and across the DLA agency,” Adams said. “You fostered a culture of teamwork, professionalism and dedication to ensure mission success. You can be proud of the things you have accomplished.”

Daniel received the Defense Meritorious Service Medal for supporting of the Korean Theater of Operations during a period of heightened regional political and military tensions ensuring Commanders at multiple echelons were provided with the quantity and quality of bulk petroleum products required to enable and maintain a "fight tonight" posture.

Medina was raised in Edinburg, Texas, and attended the University of Texas-Pan American with a full scholarship for cross country and track & field. He joins the DLA Energy team from U.S. Southern Command where he served as the J42 Plans and Exercise Division Chief and Logistics Planner.

“I have big shoes to fill, but if the job was easy then everyone would do it,” Medina said. “Challenge accepted.”

“You will lead this organization at this critical time in a critical part of the world as missions continue to evolve,” Adams said. “Relish this challenging and rewarding opportunity that only a few are given.”

The DLA Energy Korea mission is to provide world-class petroleum supply, transport and management for U.S. forces in the Republic of Korea. The command consists of U.S. Soldiers and Airmen, Department of Defense civilians, and Korean employees. Headquartered at Camp Walker, Daegu, DLA Energy Korea has a residency office and a petroleum laboratory at Camp Humphreys.