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News | Oct. 26, 2018

More than a century of service recognized at Troop Support retirement ceremony

By John Dwyer III DLA Troop Support Public Affairs

The Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support honored three employees for their 110 years of combined federal service during a retirement ceremony Oct. 25.

Debra Tillman, Mary Newell and Bernice Eaddy-Brown, each with more than 30 years of federal service, were recognized for their contributions to the agency.

Army Brig. Gen. Mark Simerly, DLA Troop Support commander, presided over the ceremony. He thanked the retirees and their families for their service and support to the warfighter.

“You made a significant difference in your career,” Simerly said. “When a soldier, sailor, airman or Marine shows up to a fight, they come as the best equipped, best supplied and best supported force in the history of our nation. That’s in large part due to what you and your teams have accomplished throughout your years here.”

Tillman started her career as a clerk typist and rose to the position of material planner with the Construction and Equipment supply chain. During that time, she earned a bachelor’s degree in purchasing and acquisition, served as a Federally Employed Women advocacy group officer and participated in the Naval Support Activity Philadelphia choraleers singing troupe.

Tillman said she feels blessed for her time at DLA, but looks forward to traveling, spending time with her grandson in Atlanta and attending dance classes during her retirement.

Newell entered federal service in 1980 and is retiring as a product specialist with C&E. Her work has supported many military operations and disaster relief efforts.

She said she is glad for the friends she made at Troop Support, to include her husband, Michael. Newell plans to travel, spend time with her grandchildren, decorate her new home and “maybe” learn to play the piano. 

Eaddy-Brown began her career in 1984 with the Medical supply chain, eventually transitioning to Clothing and Textiles. During her tenure, Eaddy-Brown earned her associate degree in purchasing and acquisition.

In retirement, Eaddy-Brown said she will care for her mother, spend time with friends and family, and take a few mini-vacations.