An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

News | June 10, 2021

DLA Energy Europe and Africa changes leadership

By Connie Braesch DLA Energy Public Affairs

In a time-honored tradition, Defense Logistics Agency Energy Europe & Africa Commander Army Lt. Col. Donna Welch transferred her authority and responsibility during a virtual change of command ceremony on Kleber-Kaserne, Germany, June 4.

Incoming Commander Army Lt. Col. Benverren Fortune joins the DLA Energy team from DLA Troop Support Europe & Africa, where he served as Operations Officer since 2019.

“What my team accomplishes every day is nothing short of amazing and requires skill, devotion, and selfless service,” Welch said. “Successfully supporting exercises and contingencies in the theaters of operation, performing secure fuel testing operations for the United States President, and establishing new fuel supply chains in Africa…we are committed to serving our customers!”

The DLA Energy regional office provides comprehensive energy solutions in both the U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command areas of responsibility, as well as into northern Iraq.

Welch was presented the Defense Meritorious Service Medal for her accomplishments. Her next assignment is at the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island.

“Team DLA Energy Europe and Africa—thank you for your service!” Welch said. “Thank you to my chain of command for the opportunity to lead this great organization.”

Fortune earned his commission at the Citadel in 2003, as a Quartermaster Officer.

“Thank you, Donna, for a superb transition. You leave behind a legacy of success that we will continue and exceed,” Fortune said. “As most of us know, the greatest weapon in our military runs on water… and everything else runs on fuel. Let us continue to ‘Energize the Force!’”

DLA Energy Europe & Africa’s geographic responsibility includes 55.8 million square miles, covering 103 nations in all of Europe and Africa, and extends from 500 miles off the Atlantic coast of the United States to the Pacific coast of Russia. It includes two thirds of the Earth’s coastlines and spans 18 time zones.