Navy Cmdr. Frank Kim assumed command of Defense Logistics Agency Energy Americas West during a virtual assumption of command ceremony in San Pedro, California, Aug. 19.
DLA Energy Americas Commander Army Col. Raphael Heflin presided over the ceremony via video teleconference from the DLA Energy Americas offices in Houston, Texas.
“Frank has had some unique assignments that has made him an excellent fit to command Americas West,” Heflin said. “He completed a training with Industry Fellowship with ExxonMobil and was the Fuel Director for the Fleet Logistics Center in San Diego. Frank has been recognized previously as an American Petroleum Institute Navy Fuel Officer of the Year.”
Kim, a native of Garden Grove, California, is designated as both a Naval Aviation and Surface Warfare Supply Corps Officer. He joined the DLA team from his previous assignment at Logistics Group Western Pacific, Singapore.
“Frank has deployed five times including a combat deployment in 2017 where he was part of a joint advisory team to support United Nations forces in Mali,” Heflin said. “This deployment gave Frank a great perspective on joint multi-national forces operations.”
As the DLA Energy Americas West commander, Kim will be responsible for western petroleum supply chain management in support of Combatant Commands, the Services, and federal and state agencies. He will ensure an uninterrupted fuel supply chain across 126 partners and 27 intermediate Defense Fuel Support Points using a variety of transport methods including nine major pipelines, tank trucks, railcars, marine barges, and commercial tankers.
“I learned early in my career that I am here not because of my singular efforts but largely because of the support and guidance I received along the way,” Kim said. “I am overwhelmed by a sense of responsibility to be a humble but effective leader who is easily understood, pragmatic and works in the best interest of the command and customers. I desire to make a meaningful and positive impact to your lives. Admittedly, this is easier said than done but I will try my best.”
“Frank, you have a proven track record and I know you will carry Americas West to even greater heights,” Heflin said. “I charge you will making a positive difference each and every day by caring for our valued workforce; maintaining a climate of dignity, respect, and inclusion; keeping the organization ready to respond to regional emergencies; and owning the mission of supporting the warfighter.”
DLA Energy Americas West, located in San Pedro, California, is one of three DLA Energy Americas regional offices working to execute the region’s area of responsibility consisting of North, Central and South Americas, plus the Caribbean Island states and territories.