AMC names Logistics Assistance Representative of the Year

By Megan GullyMay 30, 2019

AMC names Logistics Assistance Representative of the Year
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. -- Around the world, Logistics Assistance Representatives are providing Army units with expertise and experience to improve Soldier and equipment readiness through logistical support.

Across the materiel enterprise, James Johnson was selected as the Army Materiel Command LAR of the Year for fiscal year 2018 for his outstanding achievement, dedication and performance.

A Soldier for 23 years and a former Army light wheel vehicle mechanic, Johnson has served as the Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command Automotive-Tactical LAR at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, for more than three years.

"As they say, 'once a Soldier, always a Soldier.' They are why I'm here," Johnson said. "I love working with Soldiers, being in the motor pool, and showing them how to trouble shoot problems."

The award recognizes an individual for outstanding achievement and support in the Logistics Assistance Program. LAR technicians embed with both state-side and deployed units to provide guidance on weapons systems, equipment and logistics problems.

"The best part of my job is being able to train and mentor hundreds of Soldiers," he said about supporting the 18th Airborne Corps and 82nd Airborne Division's daily maintenance mission, training and real world deployments.

His supervisor and nominating officer for the award, Paul Ingram, called Johnson a dedicated team player and a force multiplier, providing hands on instruction and training to the Soldiers identifying potential problems and foreseeing future parts requirements.

"He is doing all the right things and is a technical expert," said Ingram. "He's very humble but this is very well deserved."

AMC initiated this award in 1985 to recognize and reward LAR excellence in the field. In 1988, AMC named the award in honor of former Army Missile Command LAR Robertson J. Short, for his meritorious contributions. Short embodied the characteristics of dedication, commitment, selfless service and honor.

Criteria for being eligible to receive the award includes outstanding logistics and technical support with favorably impacted Army readiness; successfully contributing improvements to Army operations such as cost avoidance and savings initiatives; support during contingencies and training exercises; and participation in self-improvement activities.