Philadelphia –
Employees of the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support Subsistence supply chain accomplished a clean sweep in the Team, Supervisor and Employee of the Year categories for the organization’s 2024 annual awards, on March 11.
“I am extremely proud of our team; they do tremendous work supporting warfighters around the globe 24/7/365,” said Subsistence Director U.S. Navy Capt. Tim Griffin. “I get to see, firsthand, how hard our employees work every day and how they always find solutions to our toughest challenges, so it’s awesome to see our teammates be publicly recognized for their efforts.”
According to the award nominations, the Individual Rations Branch distinguished itself through exceptional service and logistical excellence playing a critical role in the humanitarian aid mission to Gaza, delivering 2.74 million meals to refugees.
“Every member on this team has a feeling of pride and responsibility to do all we can for the Warfighter and it shows in our work,” said Customer Account Specialist Gregory Lichtner. “We are one team with one goal in mind – do everything possible to complete the mission.”
Additionally, in response to hurricanes Helene & Milton, the team swiftly coordinated the delivery of 22.2 million meals to U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency distribution centers.
“Culture is more important now than ever,” said Individual Rations Branch Chief Stephen Priore Jr. “We are dedicated to fostering a positive and enjoyable work environment where people look forward to coming to work to support each other and the warfighter.”
Michael Szklarski, a branch chief in the Produce and Market Fresh division, won Supervisor of the Year. Michael managed a large team in the administration of 141 Produce and Market Fresh Catalogs contracts valued from $250,000 to over $500 million dollars.
“When I was notified, I smiled and was pleasantly surprised,” said Szklarski. “You cannot become Supervisor of the Year without a great and supportive team.”
He plans to celebrate with his team with some morning coffee, doughnuts and lunch. “We will celebrate together,” he said. “I am truly thankful to have a part in this accomplishment and continue to serve in a leadership role here at DLA.”
Amy Paradis, a team lead in the Produce and Market Fresh division, was named Employee of the Year. According to her nomination, she managed $2.6 billion in contracts and has demonstrated expertise, reliability, and precision.
“When my supervisor, Monica Lopez, notified me that I won, I was in shock and very honored,” said Paradis. “I know there are a lot of hard-working individuals at DLA so the competition was tough.”
Paradis’ nomination noted her problem-solving skills were vital in crisis situations, including hurricane relief efforts and urgent vendor transitions, ensuring uninterrupted service.
“I hope that it signifies to anyone in my division that our work is a valuable service to our customers and our hard work and efforts do not go unnoticed,” added Paradis. “I will encourage them to keep up the good work and remember ‘Warfighter Always!’ “
“Moving forward, Subsistence will leverage this momentum to set even higher standards, refine processes, and build upon our success,” said a Subsistence leader. “It’s also an opportunity to share best practices, mentor others, and strengthen partnerships to continue delivering excellence.”