FORT BELVOIR, Va. –
Employees from across the McNamara Headquarters Complex filled the halls and lined the rails for the annual holiday tree lighting ceremony Dec.10.
Defense Logistics Agency Director Army Lt. Gen. Mark Simerly co-hosted the event with DLA Senior Enlisted Leader Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Alvin Dyer and leaders from the other HQC agencies.
During his first tree lighting ceremony, DLA’s director thanked the HQC workforce for the support provided throughout the year to the military, the agency’s whole-of-government customers, and the American people they are called to serve. He also reminded the workforce that the holidays are about traditions.
“Our traditions bring us closer to our family, faith, culture and heritage – and that’s why we love the holidays,” Simerly said. “That’s why it’s great to be here today lighting this tree, celebrating this longstanding tradition at the HQC.”
Simerly also reminded the employees to keep the deployed soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, Guardians, Coast Guardsmen and civilians in their thoughts over the holidays as they celebrate their own traditions.
Defense Contract Audit Agency Deputy Director Debra Caw remarked that the holiday season is a time of joy, thanksgiving and reflection.
“We all need to take the time to enjoy what it feels like to pause from the busyness of life, work and family responsibilities,” she said. “Take some time to rest, relax, reflect, have fun and enjoy the holidays.”
There were 16 entries in this year’s door decorating contest highlighting the “Winter Wonderland” theme. The Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s Human Resource Work/Life Balance Chief’s Office was named the winner of this year’s door decorating contest. Second place went to the DCAA Director’s Office, and third place went to DTRA’s Civilian Personnel Resource Division Office.
Five employees from across the HQC participated in the ugly holiday sweater contest. The first-place winner was Aviancia Applewhite, a DLA Energy contract specialist; second place went to Isaac Lynn, a DTRA human resource specialist; and third place went to Nancy Benecki, a DLA public affairs specialist.
Music was provided by the Mount Vernon High School Varsity Singers and preschool students from the HQC Child Development Center.
Click the link to view the poem read by the DLA senior leaders. (This link requires a common access card to view).