AMBOULI, Djibouti –
Defense Logistics Agency Distribution cut the ribbon on its newest facility during a ceremony with logistics partners and customers September 30.
Located in Djibouti on Camp Lemonnier, the site represents the first DLA Distribution enduring presence on the continent of Africa and a shift in U.S. Africa Command’s logistics priorities from solely expeditionary logistics to an enduring commitment at the national, strategic level.
The new location will serve as a forward-stocking solution to the forces in the area and improve storage and distribution at Camp Lemonnier. Additionally, it will provide support to the Navy 6th Fleet transiting the Port of Djibouti.
“This is a relatively low-key event that will end up having a very significant impact in the future of support to the forces in the Africa Command area of responsibility,” DLA Distribution Commanding General Army Brig. Gen. John Laskodi told the audience. “The opening of this distribution center represents an extremely significant commitment to regional security and a demonstration of U.S. national resolve.”
Thomas Kelly, U.S. ambassador to Djibouti, welcomed DLA Distribution and told the audience that Djibouti is a key U.S. partner in security, regional stability and humanitarian efforts across the region.
“This is a joint solution to a joint force, Paul Brown, AFRICOM deputy director for logistics, added.”
Cutting the ribbon alongside Laskodi and Kelly, were Navy Rear Adm. Trey Wheeler, deputy commander, Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa; Paul Brown, AFRICOM deputy director for logistics; Navy Capt. James Black, Camp Lemonnier commanding officer; Navy Capt. Christopher Parker, Naval Supply Systems Command, Fleet Logistics Center, Sigonella; Army Col. Elizabeth Delbridge-Keough, DLA Europe and Africa commander; and Navy Cmdr. Pamela Dozier, DLA Distribution Sigonella, Italy, commander.