Marine Corps logistics command visits DLA Distribution, discusses contested logistics

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Keith D. Reventlow, commanding general, Marine Corps Logistics Command, and staff visited Defense Logistics Agency Distribution July 31 for a briefing on the current state of operations and discussion on how DLA Distribution can support the mission of the Marine Corps in a contested logistics environment.

"Modernization is key and necessary to stay relevant. Not just for DLA or any single service branch, but as a joint effort," said Reventlow. A past commander of DLA Distribution, Reventlow, now leading an essential part of the Marine Corps Installations and Logistics Enterprise at the operational level, is all too aware of the need for an agile and responsive sustainment operation.

"DLA is value added," said Reventlow. "To stay relevant, you've got to change, and you need to stay relevant to the warfighter."

During his visit, leaders from DLA Distribution briefed Reventlow on the current state of three key initiatives: network optimization, warehouse utilization, and modernization, and then took him on a tour of the Eastern Distribution Center, the largest warehouse in the Defense Department.

Operations in a contested logistics environment was discussed during the visit as well as research and study efforts conducted by DLA Distribution analysts that show initiatives that would increase pick rates, a measure of the speed material can get into the hands of workers for shipment, and total throughput in the EDC.

A focus on efficiency and best utilization of assets allows DLA Distribution to save costs, increase performance, and expand to meet any emerging mission requirements. Network optimization allows leaders to use key data points as the drivers for decision making, and work closely with the branches of service, and whole of government partners, to reduce contracted services, efficiently manage personnel and reduce the physical footprint while maintaining enough space to bring in new material as required.

Modernization efforts through the DLA Distribution network are varied and carefully chosen to reflect the mission set and needs of the customer.

"We are currently testing different wearable and mobile technology at various locations based on their needs, but all of them align with commercial industry best practices," said Morris Gadsden, chief, modernization division.

The changes happening within DLA Distribution are diverse and wide in scope, but laser focused on every effort in support to the warfighter.