USA: NAVSUP GLS Changes Command

The U.S. Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Global Logistics Support (GLS) held a change of command ceremony aboard the USS Midway Museum, May 15.

Rear Adm. James R. McNeal relieved Rear Adm. Vincent L. Griffith as commander. He recently served as NAVSUP GLS deputy commander.

Griffith’s next assignment will be as director, Logistics Operations (J3), Defense Logistics Agency.

NAVSUP GLS, a San Diego based component of the Naval Supply Systems Command in Mechanicsburg, Pa., is headquarters for a network of eight Fleet Logistics Centers around the globe, from Yokosuka, Japan, across the United States, to Sigonella, Italy and Bahrain.

As the “logistics face to the fleet,” NAVSUP GLS and its global logistics centers provide an extensive array of integrated global logistics and contract services to the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, joint operational units and allied forces across all warfare enterprises around the world.

Rear Adm. Jonathan Yuen, commander, Naval Supply Systems Command, and chief of Supply Corps, served as guest speaker for the historic change of command in which, for the first time in its history, the relieving commander is affiliated with the U.S. Navy Reserve.

In addition to his previous Navy role as deputy commander, NAVSUP GLS, McNeal remains a well-known local business executive in San Diego.

Opening the ceremony, Yuen addressed the NAVSUP GLS employees’ roles supporting the warfighter.

“As the leader of NAVSUP, I am focused on answering the question, ‘Can you fight?’ That question does not mean can you pick up a gun and pull the trigger, necessarily,” Yuen said.

“Can you fight’ means in larger terms, as an organization and as an individual, what are you doing to enable our country to do its business and conduct missions around the world, and do that in an ethical and judicious manner.”

“The Navy is entrusted with billions of dollars and hundreds of thousands of people-our nation’s treasures,” Yuen continued.

“We must ensure we protect and utilize these treasures not only within established rules and procedures, but just as importantly strive to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the resources.”

Outgoing NAVSUP GLS Commander, Rear Adm. Griffith, said working with the NAVSUP GLS team was the highlight of his tenure at NAVSUP GLS.

“When I assumed command of NAVSUP GLS, I knew I was joining an elite team of logisticians – both military and civilian,” Griffith said. “This team is talented, committed and tenacious, and support for the warfighter has been center stage in all of our business lines.”

“Today, after a short, but extremely rewarding tour as your commander, I have only the highest respect for each member of this team. Together, you have embodied three enablers of success that have been critical to me throughout my career: Empathy, Empowerment and Collaboration. You have built and nurtured a culture of dignity and mutual respect here at NAVSUP GLS.

Griffith concluded, “Today, we are welcoming in Adm. McNeal, a leader who, in my observation, exemplifies these key leadership traits. On top of his many years’ of experience as a Supply Corps officer, Jim also brings a wealth of commercial experience to the table. I have every confidence in Adm. McNeal’s ability to build NAVSUP GLS into an even greater, effective, efficient and strategic partner with our fleet forces and shore customers and warfighters around the globe.”

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Press Release, May 16, 2014; Image: U.S. Navy