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News | Oct. 25, 2019

Land and Maritime Commander hosts Engineering Group, recognizes dedicated staffer

By Michael Jones DLA Land and Maritime Public Affairs

Defense Logistics Agency Land and Maritime Commander, Navy Rear Adm. John Palmer, welcomed approximately 50 members of the Engineering Support Working Group Oct. 22 to a three-day conference held on the Defense Supply Center Columbus.

ESWG meets twice a year to collaborate on the feasibility and development of more efficient procurement processes and practices that could positively impact the readiness capabilities of the nation’s military services.

“The warfighter can rely to a great extent on the planes that fly, the ships that sail and the submarines that patrol the seas, in large part because of what you do,” Palmer said.

Palmer also spoke about DLA working with some of the services Engineering Support Activities and the collaboration on several logistics and procurement initiatives that have potential to improve readiness. He said gatherings like these are important to gain a deeper understanding from the engineering community about progressive approaches to improving overall logistics capabilities.

During his welcome, Palmer presented Charles Simmons with a Commander’s Coin in recognition of his invaluable work at the Naval Surface Warfare Center. As a pivotal member of NSWC’s workforce, Simmons works with DLA to trouble shoot logistics and procurement issues affecting operational efficiencies for the Navy.
Simmons has been the lead for the ESWG for more than 20 years and more than 30 years working as a civilian for the Navy. He’s retiring at the end of 2019.