NEW CUMBERLAND, Pa. –
The Japanese government presented length of service awards to Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Yokosuka, Japan employees Oct. 18 at the Yokosuka City Cultural Hall. Twenty DLA DDYJ personnel, known as master labor contractors, received 10-year, 20-year and 30-year service awards that reflect their dedication to the United States Navy mission in Japan and the strong bonds forged between the U.S. and Japan.
Of those receiving commendations, 13 MLC’s attended the ceremony along with hundreds of other MLC’s working at various commands onboard U.S. Naval Base Yokosuka.
In his opening remarks, Isao Koba, director general, Japan's South Kanto Defense Bureau, congratulated and encouraged MLC employees to continue their duties to further support and strengthen the ties between the nations of Japan and United States of America. According to Koba, "All of you are engaged in important duties for the smooth and effective operation of installations of the U.S. Forces in Japan. I hope you will succeed in your future duties by making full use of your rich knowledge and experience and further contribute as a bridge between Japan and the U.S. through your daily work at your workplace."
DDYJ Commander, Navy Cmdr. Allen “AJ” Rivera, commented that, “Our Japanese employees account for over 70% of our DDYJ workforce. They proudly represent Defense Logistics Agency and the Government of Japan with their continued commitment to the warfighter and the mission in support of the homeland defense of Japan.”