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# Jones relinquishes command via virtual ceremony at DLA Distribution Headquarters

By Dawn Bonsell, DLA Distribution Public Affairs Officer

                NEW CUMBERLAND, Pa.  –              
In a virtual ceremony signifying a change of leadership at Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Headquarters in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, Navy Rear Admiral Kevin M. Jones passed the helm to Acting Director, Perry L. Knight, June 26. DLA Director, Army Lt. Gen. Darrell K. Williams, presided over the ceremony via video teleconference link from DLA Headquarters in Ft. Belvoir, Virginia.

DLA is currently conducting virtual ceremonies within local, state and federal COVID-19 guidelines. During the ceremony (watch here: https://dvidshub.net/r/dhsgrq) Williams gave special recognition to DLA employees who were designated as essential workers and didn’t have the option to telework during the pandemic.

“I want to give special props for many of you who were designated essential workers and did not have the option to telework. That puts you in the ‘hero’ category in my book, the same category as our warfighters, first responders and hospital workers,” Williams said. “Throughout this crisis period, you continue to do your job remarkably well.”

Jones received the Defense Superior Service Medal for his “extraordinary creativity and leadership he demonstrated at the helm of a massive distribution network.” The award narrative cites that his accomplishments were built on his ability to marry the potential of human capital with his network’s physical resources while focusing on the DLA Strategic Plan’s five lines of effort.

                Navy Rear Adm. Kevin M. Jones, right, outgoing commander, Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Headquarters, transfers leadership to Acting Director, Perry Knight, during a virtual change of command ceremony June 26 in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania.                            Jones relinquishes command via virtual ceremony at DLA Distribution Headquarters                            Navy Rear Adm. Kevin M. Jones, right, outgoing commander, Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Headquarters, transfers leadership to Acting Director, Perry Knight, during a virtual change of command ceremony June 26 in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania.            SHARE IMAGE:Download ImageImage DetailsPhoto By: Erika AlverioVIRIN: 200626-D-OU373-0001

A priority for Jones was to replace the legacy warehouse management software, the 24 year old Distribution Standard System. He also successfully established a Bahrain-centric distribution strategy for the Arabian Peninsula and a DLA Distribution Transportation Contract. Another highlight of Jones’ tenure was the F-35 Joint Program Office naming DLA as the product support provider for North American warehousing and as a partner with United States Transportation Command for global transportation.

Jones also led the DLA Distribution team as they expertly coordinated with local and regional transportation carriers in support of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to citizens afflicted by hurricanes.

In addition, he led the DLA Distribution team through the completion of a first-ever 100% physical count inventory.

“I want to express my gratitude to you, Kevin for leaving DLA Distribution in such great shape, postured to meet whatever challenge the future may bring,” Williams said.

Jones humbly contended that his accomplishments were all thanks to the DLA Distribution team. “I’m like a proud Dad,” said Jones about his team. “Your perseverance and resiliency while supporting this unprecedented crisis has been singularly remarkable and commendable. I thank you for what you have accomplished and continue to do in support of your teammates, the warfighter and our nation during this crisis.”

Jones’ next assignment is Director for Logistics, U.S. Africa Command, Stuttgart, Germany.

Williams virtually passed command to Knight who will serve as acting director.

“When you’re the chief of staff of an organization, you might figure you’re safe from being placed in the hot seat, but that seat is about to get a little hotter as you assume the reins as acting commander,” said Williams. “He’s a seasoned professional with a sterling reputation and we know this organization will be in capable hands until the arrival of Marine Brig. Gen. Keith Reventlow next month.”

“And to the Distribution Team, I leave you with this charge, to keep up your phenomenal work and to always remember the ‘why’ of what we do: to serve the warfighter and our nation,” Williams said.

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