Casarez becomes agency senior enlisted leader as Dyer exits

The new senior enlisted leader at the Defense Logistics Agency started her tenure not with a whisper, but with a roar.

Promising to start things off in a different and unorthodox way, Army Command Sgt. Maj. Petra Casarez gave an energetic yell as she addressed the DLA workforce for the first time during a change of responsibility ceremony at the agency's headquarters Sept. 18.

She said her energy was not only a tribute to outgoing Senior Enlisted Leader Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Alvyn Dyer, but it also was the raw emotion she was experiencing from joining an agency that is so extraordinary and vital.

"It is the immense honor that I feel being able to serve, even in a small way, the incredible women and men who defend our nation," Casarez said. "It is the sheer excitement of joining this team, this amazing organization, and getting to contribute to the vital work, whether you're here in the Headquarters or across the globe."

The change of responsibility ceremony reflects how DLA thrives, not only through the traditions of the military services, but through the dedication of the entire workforce working side by side for mission success, said DLA Director Army Lt. Gen. Mark Simerly.

"The senior enlisted leader embodies dedicated professional leadership, serves as a bridge between commands, cultures and communities, ensuring that every voice is heard and every mission is supported," Simerly said.

Dyer was the senior enlisted leader when Simerly became DLA's director in 2024. Dyer's experience made him someone Simerly said he could trust to serve as his eyes and ears in the agency, as well as provide insights into the agency to all senior leaders.

"During his time at DLA, he's been a master of outreach and fostered relationships both internally and externally," Simerly said.

Dyer would often follow his own schedule when they traveled to meet with other senior enlisted leaders and take time to find out what concerns the workforce had, he added.

"Chief Dyer, you've been the consummate professional in your duties," Simerly said. "You've connected with people from the most senior leaders to the newest recruits, civilian and military alike. You've been a team builder and a hands-on, approachable leader. You leave a great legacy of compassion for the people you've led."

Dyer will retire from his 30-year Air Force career in January.

"Earlier today, Chief and I were talking, and we both realized that departures and farewells like this don't get any easier as you progress in your career," Simerly said. "They certainly become more difficult, and I can tell you, Chief, this is certainly my most difficult farewell."

Dyer compared his time at DLA to being on a roller coaster.

"It's been the ride of a lifetime," he said.

He thanked Simerly and said working with him was a privilege.

"Working under your command sharpened my perspective, sharpened my resolve and reminded me daily of the power of true service," Dyer said. "There were days I thought I had it all planned out, only to realize that you were three steps ahead of me. It's like playing chess when you're already calling, 'Checkmate, Chief.'"

He also thanked former DLA Director Navy Vice Adm. Michelle Skubic for selecting him as her "backup quarterback."

"Your trust gave me the chance to step up, suit up and occasionally make an audible when logistics became wild," he said.

He attributed the agency's success to its people.

"You are the heartbeat of this agency," you said. "Your resilience, professionalism and commitment to excellence have carried us through the toughest global challenges, whether navigating contested logistics environments or responding to crises across the globe. You showed up with resolve, creativity and compassion."

Also during the ceremony, Simerly welcomed Casarez to the agency. He noted that her role at DLA is her eighth tour as a command senior enlisted leader.

"Command Sgt. Maj. Cazares, today marks the beginning of your journey inside DLA, where your leadership will not only be felt, but will shape the future of this agency," he said. "With your depth of experience and proven track record, I have no doubt you'll make a lasting positive impact on both the mission and the people who carry it out."

Casarez's husband, Thomas, was presented with a DLA polo shirt at the end of the ceremony. Simerly noted that he is the only cobbler for the Army's 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Virginia.

"If you've ever witnessed those proud units, you can hear the distinctive sound of the movements because of the modifications to the footwear. Tom is the one and only specialist who customizes those shoes," Simerly said.

Prior to joining DLA, Casarez was the sergeant major for the Department of the Army G4 Logistics Headquarters in Washington, D.C., where she was the senior enlisted advisor to the deputy chief of staff since March 2023.

Casarez enlisted in the Army in 1994 as a wheeled vehicle mechanic and completed basic combat training and advanced individual training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Since then, she has served in leadership positions from squad leader to Command Sergeant Major.