REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala.-- Gen. Dennis L. Via, Commanding General, Army Materiel Command, talked to Soldiers and civilians about his focus areas, guiding principles and the way ahead during a town hall at the Sparkman Center, Nov. 20.

One of AMC's top priorities is taking care of Soldiers and the civilians who support them, Via said.

To demonstrate that support, Via and Command Sgt. Maj. James K. Sims presented awards to AMC Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year Staff Sgt. Jeremy Baharloui and Soldier of the Year Spc. Adam Walton, both of whom are in the AMC Band.

Via outlined key events and milestones that have occurred since the last town hall May 20, including the August arrival of Lisha Adams as the Executive Deputy to the Commanding General, November's Innovation Summit and the AMC Hall of Fame ceremony in October honoring individuals who have made an impact in AMC.

"The Hall of Fame represents the type of employee we're proud to have as part of this command. They worked well together as part of a team, and they got the job done. In fact, we're still benefiting from many of the things they did, even now, 10, 20 or even 50 years later," Via said.

"It goes to show," Via added, "you don't have to be a CG to leave a mark."

Via continued the town hall by discussing his focus areas for the past six months, including support to combatant commanders, a successful budget close-out and meeting small business goals.

"For the second year in a row, we've exceeded all our small business goals, which represent more than half of the entire Army's goals," Via said.

This is in no small part due to the workforce taking care and pride in what they do, he said.

"It's important to pay attention to detail, to dot your Is and cross your Ts. We have to show we're prudent in using the resources we're given," Via said.

To encourage employees to want to remain conscientious and motivated, Via referred to his guiding principles. Number one is "Positive Leadership: setting conditions for success."

"I've been a leader since I was 22 years old. I've seen leadership at all different levels and have seen what works and what doesn't. Every day you come into the office, you set the tone for the day. I want folks to look forward to coming to work each day," Via said.

Via concluded the town hall with a holiday safety message, including not texting and driving, to get enough rest, be mindful of fire hazards while cooking or setting up holiday lights, and to take care of one another by keeping an eye out for signs of stress or depression.

"Linda and I wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving and upcoming holidays. Stay safe, be vigilant and pay attention," he said.