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News | Oct. 6, 2023

DLA Distribution Expeditionary commander receives end of tour award

By Rebecca Eigen DLA Distribution Public Affairs

Army Lt. Col. Ed Strzalkowski was honored by Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Commander, Navy Rear Adm. Grafton D. Chase, Jr., at an award ceremony Sept. 26, at DLA Distribution Headquarters in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania. 

“We want to recognize you for all the great work you’ve done,” Chase said. 

Man in military uniform standing and holding a binder
Army Lt. Col. Ed Strzalkowski thanks his Defense Logistics Agency Distribution teammates after receiving the Defense Meritorious Service Medal Sept. 26, 2023. (Photo by Dawn Bonsell, DLA Distribution PAO)
Man in military uniform standing and holding a binder
DLA Distribution Expeditionary commander receives end of tour award
Army Lt. Col. Ed Strzalkowski thanks his Defense Logistics Agency Distribution teammates after receiving the Defense Meritorious Service Medal Sept. 26, 2023. (Photo by Dawn Bonsell, DLA Distribution PAO)
Photo By: DLA Distribution Public Affairs
VIRIN: 230926-D-KL823-3853

Strzalkowski, also known as “Lt. Col. Ski” throughout DLA, led the DLA Distribution Expeditionary team from July 2018 – September 2023. He expertly commanded the agency’s expeditionary force capability initiatives into maturity, a testament to his innovation and dedication to quality. His leadership, strategic vision, bold initiative and creativity were particularly evident during a critical period of operations and security at DLA distribution. 

His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic contributed significantly to the readiness of the warfighter. His dedication to DLA values and his support for the global distribution in line with the national defense strategy have been fundamental. These efforts have laid the groundwork for the successful operation of the unified combatant commands and fostered a strong partnership with the government. Strzalkowski helped establish the distribution pipeline for the President’s one billion free COVID-19 test kits and the effective deployments of the DDXX team to support U.S. Northern Command during Hurricanes Florence, Dorian, Ida and Ian.
 
In recognition of his service, he was awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal. 

“Hopefully my team and I have done a good job. I’d especially like to thank J7 and J8 for literally keeping us out of water and supporting our missions with equipment,” Strzalkowski said.