Michael O. Cannon has served as the director of DLA Disposition Services since 2014. The organization operates from dozens of locations around the world by disposing of military material no longer needed for national security, safeguarding the public against the improper release of dangerous defense items, and extending taxpayer value through property reuse, precious metals recovery and recycling initiatives.
Cannon joined the Senior Executive Service in November 2014. He previously served on active duty with the United States Air Force for more than 33 years, retiring with the rank of colonel. He entered the Air Force in 1981 as an enlisted aircrew life support specialist, later earning a bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University in 1988 and accepting a commission in 1989.
He commanded the 43d Supply Squadron and 43d Logistics Readiness Squadron, Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina, and the 62d Aerial Port Squadron, McChord Air Force Base, Washington. He also commanded three deployed squadrons, one group, and a DLA Support Team in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, as well as the 727th Air Mobility Squadron at RAF Mildenhall, U.K. He held several staff positions at Air Mobility Command, to include Chief of Supply Analysis; Executive Officer, Logistics Directorate; and Deputy Chief, Materiel Readiness Division.
Prior to his final military assignment with DLA, Cannon was the deputy commander for the 521st Air Mobility Operations Group, Naval Station Rota, Spain. Before taking charge of DLA Disposition Services, he was business manager for Energy Convergence with DLA J6 and Deputy Director of Materiel Policy, Process and Assessment with DLA J3.
Cannon holds master’s degrees in both logistics management and military operational arts and sciences, as well as a bachelor’s degree, two associate’s degrees and a certificate in supply chain management.
Select military awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal with seven oak leaf clusters.