FORT BELVOIR, Va. –
A Navy boatswain’s mate’s whistle welcomed the official party through ceremonial sideboys during a military change of command at the McNamara Headquarters Complex auditorium on Fort Belvoir, Virginia, June 21.
Defense Logistics Agency Energy welcomed new Commander Navy Rear Adm. George Bresnihan and bid farewell to Navy Capt. Brian Anderson during the time-honored tradition.
DLA Director Army Lt. Gen. Mark Simerly officiated the ceremony thanking the entire DLA Energy team for all the work accomplished under Anderson’s leadership including the Red Hill defueling, U.S. Indo-Pacific re-posture, Carbon Pollution-Free Electricity initiatives, and the ongoing strong and evolving partnership with U.S. Transportation Command.
“These are just a few of the high-visibility activities and initiatives that have kept Brian and the Energy Team extremely busy during his tenure,” Simerly said. “It’s been a demanding period and the DLA Energy team around the globe has continually gone above and beyond to provide outstanding support to all those who rely on them to complete their missions.”
Simerly wished Anderson luck in his next assignment as director of Logistics, Fleet Supply and Ordnance at U.S. Pacific Fleet in Hawaii.
“Brian, it’s been quite a year, a very successful year for you and your team, and I wish it could be longer,” Simerly said. “The Navy has other plans and other commitments for you, and your leadership and skills are needed in the Pacific. On behalf of this agency, I want to thank you for a job well done.”
Anderson said his success and those of DLA Energy are because of the people.
“Leadership is not about a title or a position, but about making a positive impact and inspiring others to achieve their best,” Anderson said. “The truth is this job, like so many, are because of the people. It’s a team effort.”
Simerly welcomed Bresnihan to the team and noted his vast strategic and operational logistics experience with the Navy and joint forces.
“This is George’s first tour serving directly for DLA, but he’s been a fleet customer of DLA across all our commodities and understands DLA’s critical importance to Warfighters,” Simerly said. “George, I have complete confidence that you will guide this organization to even greater heights.”
During Bresnihan’s last assignment with U.S. Africa Command, he said he watched DLA Energy in action during the Sudan crisis and over the last 10 months in a post coupe Niger.
“DLA Energy’s mission is critical to National Defense, and we understand the assignment. We will be on our A game,” Bresnihan said.
Anderson asked Bresnihan to continue to drive DLA Energy to new heights and success.
“George, I ask you to continue to take care of this team. Lead them with the outstanding leadership you have exhibited over our two decades working together,” Anderson said.
DLA Energy manages the supply chain for petroleum and lubrication products, alternative fuel/renewable energy, aerospace energy; provides fuel quality/technical support, fuel card programs and installation energy services. It is one of the six DLA major subordinate commands. DLA Aviation, Disposition Services, Distribution, Land and Maritime, and Troop Support are the other five.