New DLA Distribution Sigonella commander outlines 'mission and people always' vision at first all-hands call

Navy Cmdr. Aaron Smith, commander, Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Sigonella, Italy, held an all-hands call with employees June 12, his first since assuming command of the distribution center as the 11th commander.

Smith opened the call by sharing his professional background, including his recent assignment at DLA Headquarters, where he worked in the Director's Strategic Initiatives Group. He also highlighted his previous tour at the Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station Sicily, a tenant command onboard Naval Air Station Sigonella.

"Returning to the region feels both familiar and meaningful," Smith said.

During the engagement, Smith emphasized the critical role DLA Distribution Sigonella plays in enabling warfighter readiness.

"Every action taken by this team directly contributes to our operational success across the theater," Smith said. "My leadership philosophy can be summed up as 'mission and people always,' and it will serve as the bedrock for how we'll operate, balancing uncompromising mission execution with respect, growth and unwavering care for our teammates."

Smith also introduced the command's leadership values structured around five key tenants that nest within the DLA strategic imperatives: Dedication, Duty, Stewardship, Innovation and Growth.

"These values will guide our daily operations and shape our organizational culture," Smith said. "I encourage you all to use these principles to shape your daily decisions and actions."

Continuing the focus on the DLA Distribution Sigonella workforce, Smith recognized several members of the team, including the Employees of the Month and Safety Champions, and celebrated multiple employee birthdays.

Employees of the Month:

• Francesca Mangano
• Giuseppe Proto

Safety Champions:

• Salvatore Virgillito
• Marlon Gomez
• Navy Chief Petty Officer Keiron Cayton
• Carlos Fischera
• Antonino Tinnierello
• Matteo Scalia

Employee birthdays:

• Giuseppe Ligresti
• Joe Sousa
• Daniele Rapisarda
• Giacomo DiPerna
• Giuseppe Bombaci
• Calogero "Rino" Bellia
• Flavio Genovese

"I applaud your contributions to mission success and to the positive culture of our organization," Smith said. "You are DLA Distribution's most important asset. The lifeblood of our organization and or center of gravity."