# Employee Spotlight: Darryl Braxton

/ Published June 28, 2018
RICHMOND, VA, 
**Name:** Darryl Braxton

**Organization:**DLA Distribution Richmond Mapping Division 

**Years of Service:** 44

**What is your job title, and what do you do, specifically?**I’m a materials handler. In this capacity, I perform a variety of warehouse duties, including packing and shipping the products we produce here in Richmond to the warfighters all over the world as requested/needed.

**What is your fondest memory of working for DLA Distribution?**During my career, I also served as President of AFGE Local 2047 (currently merged with Local 1992 here in Richmond, Virginia). My passion was driven by my ability to help my members and Defense Logistics Agency Distribution in any way I could. I can truly say through the union and management partnership, we overcame many obstacles by working together to support the warfighter. DLA has a diverse workforce. I can remember when DLA saw the importance in implementing diversity in the workplace. This was a tool of empowering the employee to come together to better serve the warfighters as well as respect for one another and participating and understanding various cultural events. This was the highlight of my career.  

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**What would you say has been your major contributions to your organization this year in your job?**On my job, I also work as the fire warden and safety monitor for my area. My contributions included keeping a safe workplace, attending safety training and bringing the information back to the workplace. I also conducted safety inspections throughout DLA Distribution Richmond. 

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**If you could speak directly to the warfighters you support, what would you tell them?**I would tell the warfighter that you are appreciated and your dedication to service and this country has not gone unnoticed. My prayers are with you and your families. 

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Former president Teddy Roosevelt**once said, “*This country will not be a good place for any of us to live in unless we make it a good place for all of us to live in.”*

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I thank you and salute you for your sacrifices. May God bless and protect each of you. 

**What are some of your passions outside of work?**Outside of work, I love to cook, whether it’s on a grill or inside. I love listening to old school music mixed with a little jazz. My family is also one of my passions. 

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**If you could pick a personal motto, what would it be?**I saw a motto on the side of a building at Fort Sill, Oklahoma once. It read “PEOPLE FIRST MISSION ALWAYS” This stuck in my mind throughout my career. 

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**Who is the most influential person in your life...past or present?**My wife has influenced my life in many ways. Her support and prayers have helped me make good decisions in our lives. After her passing, my daughter and grandson filled the emptiness I felt inside. Although she never worked for DLA, she came to know DLA as part of our family. 

**What is your proudest accomplishment?******My proudest accomplishment is when I went temporary duty to DLA Distribution Red River Army Depot, Texarkana, Texas, in support of DLA’s mission. I enjoyed working hard to accomplish the mission, meeting and working alongside of some of DLA’s best on one accord.******

**What type of music do you most enjoy?**My favorite music is rhythm & blues old school, as well as modern day jazz.