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News | Jan. 31, 2019

DLA Distribution Susquehanna, Pennsylvania’s Executive Officer retires

By Diana Dawa, DLA Distribution Public Affairs

Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Susquehanna, Pennsylvania’s executive officer, Navy Lt. Cmdr. Rex B. Burman, is retiring after 20 years of military service. 

 

During his retirement ceremony held here Jan. 9, Burman was presented the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, his retirement certificate, and the coveted DDSP Pallet award, recognizing his accomplishments while as the DDSP XO for the past two years.

 

For her continued support, his wife, Jenny Burman, received a certificate of appreciation during the ceremony.

 

In his remarks, Burman listed what he considers his top four achievements in his military service.

 

“NAS Keflavik – our billeting division won 5-star accreditation and the Admiral Zumwalt Award for Excellence in Bachelor Housing Management.  While serving on the USS John Paul Jones -- we passed Supply Management Certification.  Working in the Navy Office of Legislative Affairs I had the opportunity to meet influential people and military leaders, as well as the privilege in participating in the Commander in Chief’s Inauguration Ceremony. Finally, serving as the Executive Officer at DDSP.  I truly wanted to fulfill my role as a supply officer, and what better place to do that than at the largest distribution center in the department of defense,” said Burman.

 

Burman found that his biggest challenge during his military career was taking care of people, especially the young enlisted sailors who are out on their own for the first time in their lives.  

 

He also noted the main differences in the military from when he first began his career to current status is the evolvement of technology.

 

“Twenty years ago I would have to go see a personnel or an administrative specialist to sign paperwork or see my leave and earnings statement and other documents.  Now I don’t have to leave my desk or drive to another building as virtually everything can be done on a computer.”

Burman noted there are so many good people that have supported him during his Navy service.

 

“A few in particular are my skipper on USS John Paul Jones, Capt. (retired) Jim Housinger, and retired Supply Corps Captains Dan Allen, Tim Colyer, and Harry Davis.  I especially have to thank my wife Jenny and our kids Jenelle and Ridge for their support during this journey,” said Burman.

 

Army Col. March Callis, commander, DDSP, presided over Burman’s retirement Ceremony and provided remarks.

 

“I can personally attest to the fantastic job he did for us while serving on the DDSP team.  I’ve come to know Rex as someone of extremely high character, a tempered military officer who possesses impressive interpersonal tact. He is a caring individual committed to the mission and those performing it.”

 

As for Burman’s immediate future after retiring? 

 

“Enjoy civilian life”, Burman said, adding, “I’ll give the civilian sector a try.  But I will enjoy as much time with my family as I can.  When I was a kid, I assembled a lot of model kits.  So I think I will resume that hobby again.”