DLA Energy employees fill auditorium for commander’s first All Hands

FORT BELVOIR, Va. - As the first All Hands kicked off for the Defense Logistics Agency Energy's newest Commander Navy Rear Adm. George Bresnihan, DLA Energy staff filled the DLA Headquarters auditorium on Fort Belvoir, Virginia, Aug. 13, to hear the commander's emphasis on workforce accomplishments, care and attention to the well-being of employees.

More than 300 employees attended in person, and over 330 joined online to watch the DLA Energy All Hands as videos from DLA Energy's worldwide regional offices recognized three military members, two civilians, and one team.

In a recording from Andersen Air Force Base in Guam, a DLA Energy employee with a commentator-style ring announcer voice chanted "are you ready?" before introducing the deputy director of DLA Energy Indo-Pacific South-West, Raul Garcia. A photo of Garcia appeared on the screen, with a wrestling championship belt draped across him. Garcia was selected as DLA Energy's top GS-13 to GS-15 employee for the 2nd quarter of fiscal year 2024.

In another video, Air Force Master Sgt. Jeffrey Halda was given a special shoutout from the Indo-Pacific Korea leadership for winning Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of the Quarter. During a video clip, Halda expressed his gratitude for the award selection.

In a reel, dozens of DLA Energy Europe and Africa team members filled the hall of their building proudly chanting "energize the force" followed by a fist pump. The team earned the DLA Director's Strategic Goals Award for 2nd quarter of fiscal year 2024.

The videos served as a fun and engaging way to celebrate the awardees' accomplishments by bringing energy and camaraderie to the All Hands. Employees also learned about useful tools designed to facilitate the improvement of the Agency, as well as the commander's thoughts on leadership, role as the commander and goals for the future of Energy's workforce.

DLA Energy Deputy Commander David Kless raised awareness about the virtual suggestion box on the DLA Today - Energy webpage, along with physical suggestion boxes located in various areas within DLA Energy. It is a great way to encourage feedback and idea sharing among the Energy workforce.

"During my four years with the agency, the Virtual Suggestion Box has been very useful," he said. "There have been some great recommendations, and your suggestions have been meaningful and beneficial in helping us improve the organization."

Bresnihan recognized the efforts and contributions of the Energy workforce followed by sharing his command role.

"My transition to command has been smooth, and I'm pleased to be part of DLA Energy," he said. "It feels like joining an A-plus varsity team. I see myself as the person who will keep us aligned with the priorities set by the DLA director. Additionally, I'm excited to be on this journey with our team as we strive for greatness and work to break down barriers."

Other focal points for Bresnihan were self-care, caring for each other, work-life balance, mission focus, a growth mindset, leading by example, sharing of ideas, a safe work environment, and embracing DLA values.

Bresnihan emphasized that regardless of one's role or position, self-care, care for one another and stress relief are top priorities. He highlighted the importance of addressing mental, physical and spiritual needs while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

"Work hard, relax hard, and always find time to recharge your batteries," he said.

He noted that by taking care of themselves, employees will be better equipped to care for their families and loved ones, fostering stronger relationships and contributing to a more effective workforce with a greater focus on the mission of supporting the Warfighter.

Bresnihan encouraged the DLA Energy workforce to have a growth mindset as the agency adapts to changes under new leadership. He noted that DLA Energy and the environment around the agency are changing.

"We have to be flexible and ready to change," he said. I know DLA as an Agency has changed and DLA Energy is ready to embrace change."

Bresnihan said he wanted the collective audience of more than 600 employees to walk away from the All Hands as proud members of the DLA Energy team, aware of how important their work is at DLA Energy and an understanding of the command philosophy for continued efforts as the Nation's Logistics Combat Support Agency.