NEW CUMBERLAND, Pa. –
Navy Rear Adm. Kevin Jones, former commander, Defense Logistics Agency Distribution, presented the Meritorious Civilian Service Award to Yvette Harris, former director, DLA Distribution Equal Employment Opportunity, for her outstanding contributions to the organization at DLA Distribution Headquarters in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, June 19.
Wearing masks to adhere to current COVID-19 guidelines, Jones addressed Harris’s accomplishments during her DLA Distribution career.
“Her insight into complex cases made her advice sought by peers and leaders across DLA and beyond,” stated Jones, adding, “An exceptional communicator, Harris has few peers in her ability to problem solve. Her strong commitment to the mission made her an extremely valued member of DLA Distribution's team.”
Harris distinguished herself with meritorious achievement while serving as the EEO director, DLA Distribution, from June 2012 through June 2020. She led the DLA Distribution EEO effort with equal parts compassion and uncompromised integrity.
According to her award citation, Harris managed the highest caseload in DLA and has a strategic understanding of employees and management.
Reflecting on her military experience, Harris shared her thoughts on how her knowledge of the DLA agency has evolved since her tenure with DLA Distribution.
“While I was on active duty in the Marines, I never knew exactly what DLA did. However, I now know that when I ordered new uniforms — that was DLA; when I ate MRE’s [meals ready to eat] and UGR’s [unified group rations] — that was DLA; when I received first aid packets in the field — that was DLA; when I received maps of unfamiliar terrain overseas — that was DLA. So today, on my very last day in this amazing organization I can say one final time – We are DLA,” Harris said.
Harris is moving on from the Agency. Her new position is as the EEO director for the NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio.