PHILADELPHIA –
Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support celebrated the federal service of five civilian retirees during a ceremony in their honor May 28.
With a combined 184 years of service, Patricia (Patty) Nelson, John F. McCarrick, Volodymyr (Walt) Aleksander, Florence Robinson Jones and Tiffiny Cooke retired amongst family members, friends and colleagues.
Nelson retired from the Procurement Process Support office after 40 years of service. McCarrick retired from the Clothing and Textiles supply chain with 39 years of service. Aleksander retired from the Product Test Center with 37 years of service. Jones retired from the Construction and Equipment supply chain after 34 years. Cooke retired from the Business Process Support office with 34 years of service.
DLA Troop Support Commander Army Brig. Gen. Landis C. Maddox presided over the event and explained the personal significance of this specific retirement ceremony.
“Today is more than just another retirement ceremony, because this one resonates deeply with me,” Maddox said. “Today is my final retirement ceremony as commander of this extraordinary organization. There’s no need to be somber, since this is a momentous occasion. However, I find it fitting that this ceremony here is one of my last things to do at Troop Support.”
Maddox discussed the strong impact each retiree leaves on Troop Support, its mission and the entire workforce.
“Each of you represented a lifetime of experience, wisdom and unwavering service,” Maddox said. “Your fingerprints are the foundation of this organization. You shaped missions, developed teammates and delivered for the warfighter across decades of change.”
During the ceremony, each retiree expressed their thoughts as they leave Troop Support. Deep pride in their work and strong interpersonal relationships developed at Troop Support were overarching themes.
“I have been proud the last three decades to [work at DLA Troop Support] and ensure the warfighter has what they need,” Cooke said. I appreciate my coworkers who always supported me.
Detailing the contributions friends and family made to the career of each retiree, Maddox expressed his appreciation.
“None of this happens without the quiet strength and support of family,” Maddox said. “That is why I want to recognize those family members in attendance today. Thank you for outstanding behind these incredible individuals throughout their journey of service.”
Each retiree received a letter of retirement, a pin of appreciation, a Commander’s coin and a star note from Maddox. Spouses in attendance also received letters of appreciation.
“You all have given so much and accomplished even more,” Maddox said. “You’ve each helped make DLA Troop Support the gold standard in logistics excellence. I thank you for that.”