COLUMBUS, Ohio –
The Defense Logistics Agency Land and Maritime command team hosted a Holiday Open House Dec. 14 in the Building 20 command suite, returning to the traditional gathering for the first time since the pandemic.
The open house gave hundreds of associates a chance to socialize with DLA Land and Maritime’s leadership in a festive environment.
The command suite was transformed into a winter holiday wonderland of lighted pine garland, a variety of lights, holiday trees of all sizes, presents, snowmen, sleighs, stockings on the walls, a Menorah, homemade decorations, wreaths and more.
Associates were given the opportunity to chat with DLA Land and Maritime Commander Army Brig. Gen. Gail Atkins and her husband, retired Navy Cmdr. David Leiker, Deputy Commander Kenneth Watson and his wife, Jill, Acquisition Executive Mark Brown, Director of Operations Todd Lewis and Chief of Staff Air Force Col. Craig Lowery.
Many associates were also warmly welcomed by DLA Land and Maritime special guest Whitehall Mayor Kim Maggard.
The conversations ranged from status reports to holiday vacation plans and military lore.
Atkins explained the history and tradition behind her massive military coin collection as well as the story behind various items throughout her office.
She also thanked each group of associates who came through for all the hard work they do each day to support the warfighter.
“What you do everyday has a downward effect that’s extremely important…Don’t ever believe that what you’re doing doesn’t matter, because that would be 100% wrong,” Atkins said. “Be very proud of the mission you support.”
After visiting with Atkins, associates were treated to light refreshments in the command conference room along with an opportunity to get photos with Santa, played by Jeff Feller, who works in maintenance for DLA Installation Management – Columbus.
Each associate left the event with a holiday card signed by the command team.
A photo gallery from the event is available on the DLA Today internal website (CAC/PIV-enabled).