DSR Spotlight: Kevin Higdon

BATTLE CREEK, Mich. - Kevin Higdon is a Disposal Service Representative for DLA Disposition Services, serving customers on the Korean peninsula, to include; Camp Casey, Camp Hovey, Camp Bonifas (DMZ), the Rodriguez Live Fire Range, USAG Yongsan and K-16 Air Base, USAG Humphreys (the largest OCONUS military installation in the world), Osan Air Base, and Suwon Air Base.

What are your regions of responsibility?

I am responsible for the following regions on the Korean peninsula; Camp Casey, Camp Hovey, Camp Bonifas (DMZ), the Rodriguez Live Fire Range, USAG Yongsan and K-16 Air Base, USAG Humphreys (the largest OCONUS military installation in the world), Osan Air Base, and Suwon Air Base.

Tell us about your career before you began working as a DSR.

I retired from the U.S. Army in early 2011 and began my civilian career with DLA Disposition Services later that same year as a material examiner and identifier. During more than four years in warehouse operations, I progressed through several roles, including team leader and acting supervisor.

In 2015, I transitioned to environmental protection specialist, where I also served as a Contracting Officer's Representative. Then in 2021, I moved to an equipment specialist position for approximately six months. In January 2022, I accepted the opportunity to serve in South Korea as a Disposal Service Representative.

What is the value that you see about your role as a DSR?

The value I bring as a DSR comes from the broad experience I gained during my Army career and throughout my time with DLA. Because of those roles, I have seen many different turn-in situations and customer challenges. That experience helps me understand the disposal process from multiple perspectives. When a customer has an issue or does not know where to start, I can draw on what I have learned, research the requirement, and help find the right answer or resource."

Is there a memorable moment as a DSR that stands out for you, and why do you find that one unique?

One memorable moment was when I had just arrived as the new DSR at Camp Humphreys and was contacted by the area manager about the Yongsan Relocation Plan. After receiving a brief overview, I was assigned as the point of contact for the entire U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan closure effort.

My responsibility was to inventory property in nearly every building, provide disposal guidance, and support the closure process for the installation, with the exception of the Dragon Hill Lodge. It was a major responsibility, especially as a new DSR, and required a great deal of coordination, research, and problem-solving.

What made the assignment especially meaningful was that Yongsan was the installation where I first served in the Army. Returning years later in a DLA role to help support its closure was a unique full-circle moment in my military and civilian career.

What is the No. 1 tip you give to the warfighter/customer?

Contact your DSR early, review the applicable standard operating procedure for guidance, and provide as much information as possible about the property you need to turn in. The SOP is a valuable resource for understanding the requirements and helping avoid delays.

I never want to leave a warfighter with only a 'we can't take it' answer. My goal is to help identify a path to final disposition for the property in their possession, even if that requires researching the requirement, coordinating with another office, or directing them to the right resource.

What is your favorite part about your job?

I am always learning something new. Every item and turn-in situation can present a different challenge, giving me an opportunity to research requirements and expand my knowledge. I am not afraid to review a technical manual or research a piece of equipment to ensure it can be safely processed at the field site.

DSRs are subject matter experts in the disposition process, but our customers and warfighters are often the subject matter experts on how their equipment operates. By working together, reviewing the appropriate technical information, and continuing to train warfighters on disposal requirements, we can make sure property is handled correctly and safely.

Safety is always my number one priority. I want to make sure my coworkers and customers have the information they need to process property safely. Being able to learn, solve problems, train and support the warfighter, and help protect the people involved in the process is what I enjoy most about being a DSR.

Anything you would like to share about your life outside of work?

Outside of work, fishing and hunting in northern Michigan with friends and family remain close to my heart. Although I have not had the opportunity to do either in Michigan for a long time, I value the memories of being outdoors and spending that time with the people closest to me. I enjoy northern Michigan, but I do not miss the cold and snow of its winters.

Personal motto:
"Above and beyond is not the exception, it is the standard."