FORT BELVOIR, Va. –
A Navy boatswain’s mate’s whistle welcomed the official party through ceremonial sideboys and an Air Force color guard presented the National flag during a joint military change of command at the McNamara Headquarters Complex auditorium on Fort Belvoir, Virginia, June 29.
Defense Logistics Agency Energy welcomed new Commander Navy Capt. Brian Anderson who assumed command from Air Force Brig. Gen. Jimmy “Vegas” Canlas.
DLA Director Navy Vice Adm. Michelle Skubic officiated the time-honored ceremony thanking the DLA Energy team for being “at full sprint” through a dynamic past three years.
“Across the board, DLA Energy consistently provides 'Ph.D.-level’ energy solutions globally in every area of responsibility,” Skubic said. “The credibility of this team has been so important to ensuring that we’re not only invited to the table when there are issues to solve, but we’re empowered to help build and drive solutions.”
Since taking command in 2020, Canlas led the agency through the pandemic while facing unprecedented operational challenges. These include the withdrawal of U.S. troops and allies from Afghanistan, the invasion of Ukraine, preparations for the defueling and closure of Defense Fuel Support Point Red Hill in Hawaii, and the execution of Section 352 of the 2022 National Defense Authorization Act transferring the management and delivery for global bulk fuel to the U.S. Transportation Command.
Skubic presented Canlas the Defense Superior Service Medal for his service.
“The three years under Brig. Gen. Canlas’ watch were busy indeed and full of demanding, sometimes unpredictable, and often no-notice challenges that could have derailed a less visionary leader… and less adaptable team,” Skubic said.
Noting his well-known big smile and infectious positive leadership, Skubic thanked Canlas for keeping the organization focused on the end goal while still having fun. Over the years, Canlas became known for taking selfies with the team, challenging his leaders to a lip synch battle during the agency’s spring festival, wearing fun costumes during morale events, and finding a way to put a smile on everyone’s faces.
Canlas thanked Skubic for her leadership, guidance and mentorship. He said through his tenure he learned why everyone was always saying, “DLA Energy is different” or “DLA Energy is special.”
“It is because of the people and the culture,” he said. “Energy has a culture that is inclusive, empowering, rewarding, and fun. Our people simply love what they do.”
In his remarks, he told the audience he has been in awe watching the workforce execute the DLA Energy mission.
“Every day over the past three years, I had the opportunity to watch you swing the bat and get base hits, some foul tips – which is okay – a few strikeouts, but a whole lot of home runs and quite a few grand slams. This team is world class, and no one does it better,” Canlas said.
Serving as the DLA Energy commander was Canlas’ final tour in uniform. He retired from active duty June 30.
“I was humbled to be your commander and extremely proud to be your servant,” he said. “Thank you, DLA Energy, for the great memories and your unwavering support. This was absolutely the best way to wrap up a 30-year career.”
Welcoming Anderson to the team, Skubic noted his vast experience with the Navy, joint forces and even DLA. From 2009 to 2012, Anderson was assigned to DLA where he worked on a variety of high-visibility issues including the Base Realignment and Closure process, deploying to support the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan, serving as current operations chief in the Joint Logistics Operations Center, and ultimately as the military aide to the then-DLA Director Navy Vice Adm. Harnitchek.
“DLA Energy has an impressive history of outstanding leadership at the helm, and Capt. Brian Anderson is no exception,” Skubic said. “He brings an incredible resume of strategic logistics and leadership experience. His prior assignments include five sea tours amounting to about 12 years! Brian is well-versed in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility, which will serve him well as we continue supporting the combatant commander in setting that theater.”
Canlas welcomed Anderson to the DLA Energy family.
“Take great care of them and they will take great care of you,” Canlas said. “You are inheriting the best.”
Anderson said he is honored to take command of DLA Energy.
“The simple truth is that we stand at a pivotal point in the Department of Defense’s and nation’s readiness,” Anderson said. “A large portion of DOD’s ability to prevent, or if necessary, engage an adversary at any place – be it under or on the sea, on the ground, in the air or in space – will undoubtedly be accomplished via the products, services and expertise of the women and men of DLA Energy.”
View the ceremonial program (PDF) or a video of the full ceremony on Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS).