ANNISTON, Ala. –
Rear Adm. Michael York, commander, Defense Logistics Agency Distribution, learned more about operations and support to the Army and warfighter during a visit to DLA Distribution Anniston, Alabama, located at Anniston Army Depot, July 10-11.
York, who presided over a change of command ceremony July 10 where Army Lt. Col. Toby Williford relinquished command to Army Lt. Col. Brandon Ebel, made his first visit to the site since assuming command of DLA Distribution in May.
“This was a great opportunity to see first-hand the outstanding support that the Anniston team provides that impacts the mission success of our warfighters and whole of government partners,” said York. “I’m inspired by the dedication and precision of the team, who realize and embrace the pivotal role they play in our mission. What is done at Anniston is critical to our nation’s defense.”
DLA Distribution Anniston, Alabama, stores items ranging from small microchips to M1A2 main battle tanks. The organization's industrial capabilities include reciprocal engine kitting, joint vehicle inspections, minor vehicle repair, modification of vehicles, camouflage painting, disassembly, assembly, modification and minor repair of small arms weapons, preservation and packaging and Total Package Fielding of weapons systems for combat and wheeled vehicles and small arms weapons.
At Anniston, 240 employees sustain the warfighter through distribution operations exceeding 100,000 transactions annually. Within its 35 million cubic feet of storage area, the team manages six million items totaling more than $11 billion. During his orientation, York learned more about their mission and toured multiple departments. A highlight of the visit was the opportunity to see “Clyde,” an 80-ton gantry crane used to move M1A2 Abrams tanks, Strykers and other heavy wheeled vehicles to and from railcars before towing them to storage preparation areas. York was even able to get behind the sticks and operate the crane for a few minutes.
York also visited the preservation, packing, packaging and marking section, received a service and support brief, toured the weapons divisions and storage warehouse, and learned more about the production warehouses that store the wholesale, retail and materiel readiness divisions.
At each stop York was able to meet with DLA Distribution Anniston employees who support the organizations efforts.
“Many of these employees have decades of services and unique skills honed over time,” said Ebel. “Our mission is essential to preserving freedom, and our support to the warfighter is paramount and enduring.”