DLA Distribution Sigonella bridges the gap with strategic staff ride

In military logistics, connecting the supply chain directly to the warfighter's mission is critical for operational success. To bridge this gap, the Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Sigonella, Italy, military and civilian team recently conducted an immersive staff ride with the Air Force's 7th Reconnaissance Squadron.

Led by Navy Cmdr. Aaron K. Smith, commander, DLA Distribution Sigonella, Italy, the event marks the first in a planned series of staff rides designed as a deliberate campaign to drive continuous workforce growth and professional development across the command.

Originally coined by the Prussian Army as a tool to study battlefield tactics on the ground, DLA Distribution Sigonella, Italy, adapted the staff ride concept to the logistics domain. The engagement directly supports the DLA strategic imperative of partnership by fostering alignment between the logistics team and their operational customers.

Both commands are co-located at Naval Air Station Sigonella, Europe's only naval air station. Rich in military history, the installation serves as a highly strategic Mediterranean hub with a critical mission focused on anti-submarine warfare and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations.

This close physical proximity allows DLA and the 7th Reconnaissance Squadron to operate shoulder-to-shoulder, translating geographic co-location into direct warfighter support.

"It is vital for our logisticians to step outside the warehouse to physically see their direct impact on the warfighter," Smith said. "Interacting with squadron maintainers on the flight line reinforced that every requisition processed impacts mission success, transforming routine supply metrics into critical aviation readiness."

The distribution center acts as the logistical backbone for the squadron, streamlining operations through central receiving, direct turnover and the rapid transshipment of material.

This hands-on experience strongly resonated with the workforce, transforming routine supply metrics into a clear picture of aviation readiness.

"One of the biggest things I learned was how directly our work at DLA Distribution impacts the mission and the role we play supporting the warfighter," said Marlon Gomez, a safety and occupational health specialist at DLA Distribution Sigonella, Italy, who attended the staff ride. "Seeing the flight line, talking with the maintainers and hearing about the challenges they face helped connect what we do every day to the operational readiness of the aircraft and the people who depend on our support. It reinforced that every requisition, shipment, and delivery can make a real difference."

Gomez added that the staff ride enhanced his ability to perform his role by providing a better understanding of the customer's priorities.

"That perspective helps me make more informed decisions and provide better support because I have a clearer picture of how our work fits into the overall mission," Gomez said. "I also believe these events strengthen not only our relationships with our customers but also the relationships within our own team. Learning alongside my coworkers helps build trust, encourages collaboration and reminds us that we're all working toward the same goal of supporting the warfighter."

By stepping out of the warehouse and onto the flight line, DLA Distribution Sigonella, Italy, continues to ensure its workforce understands the critical weight of their daily support to the global logistics mission.

"This helped me really see the wide-reaching logistical support that DLA to various commands in Sigonella," said Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Daveanne Williama, supply clerk, DLA Distribution Sigonella, Italy. "At times working in inside the warehouse we don't really get to see the impact we are having but being able to step out for bit and see and hear from one customer how much they appreciate our support is really awesome."