Courtesy Photo | Navy Rear Adm. David Pimpo, outgoing commander of DLA Land and Maritime, hands the...... read more read more
Subscribe
COLUMBUS, Ohio - Defense Logistics Agency Land and Maritime Commander Navy Rear Adm. David Pimpo turned responsibility for the field activity over to his deputy commander July 24 during a ceremony in Columbus, Ohio.
Outgoing Commander Navy Rear Adm. David Pimpo handed the DLA Land and Maritime colors to James McClaugherty during the ceremony, which was presided over by DLA Director Navy Vice Adm. Mark Harnitchek. Pimpo left to take command of Naval Supply Systems Command Weapon System Support in Philadelphia.
“David, I want to thank you for everything you and your crew has done,” Harnitchek said. “You have been an outstanding leader and officer, and certainly worthy to lead this great outfit here in the Buckeye state.”
Pimpo thanked his wife, Margaret Ann, and his parents, Richard and Mona, who were joined by several family members, including Pimpo’s three brothers. He also thanked the DLA Land and Maritime staff for their work.
“You welcomed Margaret Ann and me with open arms,” Pimpo said. “As I sadly give up command today and head out the gate for the last time, I will take with me many lessons I learned from you. It’s truly been my honor and privilege to be your commander. I will never forget this incredible ride we took together. Yes, it’s time for me to go, but a piece of my heart will always be here in Columbus.”
Harnitchek praised DLA Land and Maritime’s accomplishments during Pimpo’s command.
“Under David, you all have done some amazing things,” he said. “In logistics you either have it or you don’t have it. In the past two years, you’ve had it a lot more often than you haven’t had it. It (Material availability) has been the best it’s been in 10 years.
DLA Land and Maritime was a leader in supply availability, Harnitchek said.
“With back orders, it’s okay to have a few, and they can’t be very old, but Dave crushed that supply availability,” the admiral said. “When he started here, the team here had 140,000 backorders, and now it less than 85,000. Not only did you crush your own numbers but you led the agency in all the measures of supply that people care about.”
Harnitchek highlighted DLA Land and Maritime’s support of Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles, which greatly reduced deaths and injuries from the improvised explosives used widely by enemies in Iraq and Afghanistan. The vehicle has been a high priority for years at DLA Land and Maritime.
“The MRAPs would not have the fabulous readiness rates they have now if I weren’t for David and this dedicated team,” he said. “At 95 percent readiness for both the Army and Marines, this weapon system provides vital protection for our men and women in harm’s way.”
Harnitchek complimented Pimpo’s relationship with the DLA Land and Maritime workforce.
“Dave has always assured that the people here have what they need, and he’s made a real good impression on the people here,” he said. “I can tell from walking around here that folks just like you a lot. But, regardless of who the leader is, you guys have the reputation of having the highest performing outfit when it comes to repair parts management in the agency, and you had that for as long as I can remember doing business with DLA.”
Pimpo, who was DLA Land and Maritime’s 24th commander, will manage program and supply support for Navy aircraft, ships and submarines worldwide at his new assignment.
“You did fabulous work in your two short years here in Columbus, and you’re going to make a big difference commanding the Navy’s Weapon Systems Support,” Harnitchek said.
McClaugherty will command until Navy Rear Adm. John King arrives next month. Harnitchek praised the deputy commander.
“We’re going to hand the reins to the fabulous, fantastic, legendary Mr. Jim McClaugherty,” Harnitchek said. “Jim has been the deputy here for more than 10 years and is used to stepping into wherever he is needed. You’ll be in good hands. Men like Jim … are reasons I can sleep well.”
| Date Taken: | 07.24.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 08.01.2014 08:52 |
| Story ID: | 137993 |
| Location: | COLUMBUS, OH, US |
| Web Views: | 312 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Pimpo relinquishes responsibility for DLA Land and Maritime, by Anthony D'Elia, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
No keywords found.
LEAVE A COMMENT