FORT BELVOIR, Va. –
The Defense Logistics Agency Energy Americas North regional office welcomed a new commander in a time-honored ceremony on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 10.
Outgoing Commander Air Force Lt. Col. Bart Land handed over responsibility of the organization to Air Force Maj. Daniel Moritz during a change of command ceremony.
“Americas North is truly a special organization within the Americas and Energy Team,” said DLA Energy Americas Commander Army Col. Josielyn Carrasquillo, who officiated the ceremony. “This joint command leads and directs nine Defense Fuels Support Points and distributes over 104 million gallons of fuel in support of 120 Department of Defense and other federal activities.”
Carrasquillo recognized the hard work and dedication of the Americas North team for their unwavering support despite Alaska’s geographic and weather challenges. She recognized the important role the unit plays developing a strong Arctic posture including the support of multiple exercises that bolstered interoperability and partnership between the U.S. and ally partners including Canada, Great Britain, Australia, and Japan.
During the ceremony, Land received the Defense Meritorious Service Medal for his achievements.
“Your leadership, professionalism, and drive for excellence were essential factors in multiple complex operations,” Carrasquillo said. “Thank you for taking care of our people and empowering them to operate with initiative and integrity in any given circumstance.”
Land’s next assignment will be a 1-year deployment with the 724th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron as the Commander for Logistics Readiness Squadron in Niger, Africa.
Moritz joins the DLA Energy Americas North team from Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, where he graduated the Air Command and Staff College. He brings a wealth of leadership and regional experience having previously serviced at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska from 2013-2015.
“He is no stranger to Alaska and its unique challenges,” Carrasquillo said. “A well-rounded officer with operational and staff assignments that have prepared him for this important position. I want to welcome you to the Americas Family and hope you enjoy all Alaska has to offer.”
DLA Energy Americas is divided into three offices: DLA Energy Americas North in Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska; DLA Energy Americas East at Houston, Texas; and DLA Energy Americas West at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, California. DLA Energy Americas also partners with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and contingency contractors for bulk petroleum support for natural or man-made disasters occurring in the U.S in support of Defense Support of Civil Authorities.