TRACY, Calif. –
Distribution Process Worker Leader Philip Cruz Jr. of the Bin Packing Division at Defense Logistics Agency Distribution San Joaquin, California, is retiring after 42 years of dedicated federal service in support of America’s warfighters.
Before coming to DLA, he retired from the U.S. Navy as a chief petty officer aviation boatswain’s mate. Cruz served faithfully for 22 years. He is a Vietnam era veteran and participated in the Persian Gulf War, Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.
On Oct.1, 2001 he started his civilian service career as a wage grade 4 materials handler and is retiring as a work leader 5 distribution process worker leader in the Bin Packing Division. A highlight of his job in Bin Packing was his opportunity to lead his team in achieving green performance metrics in his division.
Cruz noted that continuous learning and education was the key to his success at DLA.
“Each individual has their own ideas, plans and morals which I have combined only the positive for myself,” said Cruz. “I encourage all employees to engage in continuous learning and promote themselves in a positive way.”
Cruz’s supervisor Kevin Guilford appreciates his hard work and dedication to the mission.
“Mr. Cruz’s success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out. His day to day leadership has played a vital role for many years to ensure the second shift packing team achieved the goals assigned to them,” said Guilford.
Working for DLA has been rewarding to Cruz. He values the mission in providing support to the military on the homeland and overseas. He went on to comment that there have been millions of dollars in materiel that pass through his hands everyday in support of the warfighters and first responders, a job he takes seriously and with pride.
Upon retirement, his plans are to remodel his home and take time to travel using Amtrak to the East Coast and North to Washington and will fly to Japan, Alaska, Guam and Hawaii. His hobbies include gardening and planting various hot peppers. Additionally, he plans on getting outdoors to camp, fish and just enjoy the outdoor life.