DLA Troop Support Europe & Africa celebrates the promotion of Lt. Col. Mason at Ramstein

Members of the DLA Troop Support Europe & Africa command, colleagues, friends and family gathered at the Ramstein Officers' Club on Sept. 11 to celebrate a career milestone as U.S. Army Maj. Steven Mason was promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel.

The ceremony marked a significant step forward in Mason's military career, representing a testament to his dedication, hard work, and institutional impact across the theater. U.S. Army Master Sgt. Becker, senior enlisted leader served as the master of ceremonies, guiding the event's traditional military proceedings and serving as the presiding officer for the ceremony, U.S. Army Lt. Col Alan Strange, commander, DLA Troop Support Europe & Africa officially introduced the promotion order. In a deeply meaningful moment, Mason's wife Dana and daughter Emma stepped forward to pining the new silver oak leaf onto his uniform, symbolizing the vital role family support plays in a service member's career longevity.

Reflecting on the milestone, Mason looked back at the foundational moments that shaped his military career.

"What began approximately 16 years ago as the start of a journey I could never have fully envisioned has brought me to this truly special moment," Mason shared. "Throughout the years, the journey has been marked by challenges, memorable experiences, demanding days and nights, and countless opportunities for growth and service."

For Mason, reaching the rank of lieutenant colonel is less about personal achievement and more about the collective network of leaders, peers and teams who supported him along the way. He emphasized that his path has been deeply shaped by the many individuals who offered guidance, encouragement and friendship over the last decade and a half.

"Reaching this milestone is a moment for which I am both immensely proud and sincerely grateful," Mason said. "It represents not only years of dedication and hard work, but also the mentorship, camaraderie, relationships and memories that have made this journey so meaningful and rewarding."

The promotion ceremony provided an opportunity for the DLA Europe & Africa community to toast to Mason's past accomplishments and the new responsibilities that come with his senior rank. As he takes on this next chapter, his leadership will continue to drive mission readiness and supply chain excellence across the United States European Command and U.S. Africa Command areas of responsibility.

Reflecting on the gathering of colleagues and loved ones who came to support him, LTC Mason noted:

"It is a great honor to celebrate this achievement in the company of those who have been an important part of my journey. Your presence makes this occasion all the more special as we share an afternoon of celebration, fellowship, and a toast to this milestone and the chapter that lies ahead."