DLA News Archive

Tag: DLA History

Oct. 1, 2020

Oct. 1 recognized as DLA’s foundation date despite debate

FORT BELVOIR, Va. — Oct. 1 is widely recognized as the Defense Logistics Agency's birthday, as it was the agency’s first day of operations.

Two women and a man stand in front of a sign that says "SAMMS STOP BUTTON" in front of a historical photo of a group of employees about to hit the "SAMMS GO BUTTON."

Aug. 31, 2020

Former IT system integrated logistics functions, improved DLA's project management

FORT BELVOIR, Va. — DLA launched the Standard Automated Materiel Management System in 1971 to integrate common logistics functions across multiple supply chains. Though it was replaced in the 2000s, SAMMS increased effectiveness and forced DLA to improve its project management.

Aug. 6, 2020

DLA directors use management theory to write strategic plans, find efficiency

FORT BELVOIR, Va. — Management theories have helped the agency save money, improve readiness and accelerate supply transactions.

White woman in Navy dress blue uniform with ribbons

July 21, 2020

Former DLA Land and Maritime commander named new DLA director

FORT BELVOIR, Virginia — The U.S. Senate confirmed July 20 Navy Rear Adm. Michelle Skubic for appointment to the rank of vice admiral and director of the Defense Logistics Agency.

A woman sits at a desk surrounded by other desks and computers with TV monitors in the background.

June 24, 2020

ASOC enhances agency capabilities during COVID-19

FORT BELVOIR, Va. — Since DLA’s establishment in 1961, the agency has relied on the many iterations of its operations center as the single point for coordinating agencywide responses during disasters and emergencies.

Jan. 8, 2020

2019 annual history chronicles DLA's achievements

FORT BELVOIR, Virginia — From a growing role in the delivery and storage of repair parts for the F-35 Lightning II to an agreement with the Department of Veterans Affairs to reduce pharmaceutical prices, the Defense Logistics Agency made significant achievements in 2019.

A U.S. Navy P2V Neptune flies over a Soviet freighter Oct. 27, 1962, during the height of the blockade during the Cuban Missile Crisis. National Archives and Records Administration photo

Oct. 21, 2019

DSA supports Cuban Missile Crisis 1 year after founding

FORT BELVOIR, Virginia — By quickly responding during to the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Defense Supply Agency proved itself as the nation’s preeminent source of combat logistics.

The Defense Logistics Agency celebrates its 58th birthday Oct. 1. The agency’s mission has changed and expanded since Army Lt. Gen. Andrew T. McNamara took command in 1961, but DLA employees still provide world-class logistics support. Graphic illustration of Gen. McNamara's portrait over the DLA headquarters building.

Oct. 1, 2019

DLA celebrates 58th birthday

FORT BELVOIR, Virginia — The Defense Logistics Agency celebrates its 58th birthday Oct. 1. The agency’s mission has changed and expanded since Army Lt. Gen. Andrew T. McNamara took command in 1961, but DLA employees still provide world-class logistics support.

The Defense Logistics Agency and General Services Administration work together to manage 600-plus federal classes of supply, which include over 6 million National Stock Numbered items.

Aug. 20, 2019

DLA-GSA partnership to manage federal supply classes spans history

FORT BELVOIR, Virginia — The Defense Logistics Agency and General Services Administration work together to manage 600-plus federal classes of supply, which include over 6 million National Stock Numbered items.

July 10, 2019

Federal laws steer DLA mission, business practices

The Defense Logistics Agency has been affected by Congress as much as the executive branch during its 58-year history. While some of the influence has come through oversight, the majority resulted from legislation that determined how the agency is structured, operates and employs its workforce.