Detroit Arsenal employee places in Department of the Army OPSEC Awards

By Scott WakefieldJanuary 8, 2020

McCarthy recognized at TACOM
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

The U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command's Security Manager, Michelle McCarthy, has placed third in Department of the Army OPSEC Awards for 2018.

The Army OPSEC Achievement Awards recognize DA personnel for their innovative approaches to solving Operational Security problems and improving their programs.

McCarthy's supervisors nominated her due to her capabilities in multi-tasking and proactive approaches to the command's challenging OPSEC situations.

"The act of my leadership nominating me [is a confirmation] that I've advanced my skills enough both personally and professionally over the past 10 years to be acknowledged is an honor," McCarthy said.

Bud Spaulding, TACOM's Security Supervisor, is McCarthy's current boss. He said, "[She's] an excellent performer. She has the ability to multi-task, meet deadlines, and is conscientious about the quality and accuracy of her work."

According to Spaulding, McCarthy has been lauded by TACOM leadership, as well as her peers and co-workers. "Security personnel recognize that sound OPSEC practices are critical in preventing adversaries from collecting sensitive information relating to Army programs and activities," he said.

"2018 was filled with many security challenges and missions," said McCarthy, "I worked with many good and dedicated [coworkers] to support our soldiers."

During the beginning of the award period, McCarthy was the acting security manager for Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center before its re-organization under Futures Command.

One of her major accomplishments in this capacity was the implementation of an online tool that improved the workforce's OPSEC knowledge base and helped streamline reporting processes. This new process reduced OPSEC reporting from 5-7 days to 1-2 days, with some being completed in less than 24-hours.

In her current position, McCarthy ensured that all Detroit Arsenal personnel were prepared for the Army Materiel Command OPSEC and Intelligence and Security Program Inspection. She spent countless hours ensuring all forms, records and requirements were available and adhered to. She also led a Staff Assist Visit for both TARDEC and TACOM to prepare for the inspection.

Another highlight of her accomplishments was her coordination of TEMPEST training for the Detroit Arsenal security team and help in coordinating two OPSEC Mobile Training Teams at different times in 2018.

"I am thankful every day that I have this wonderful opportunity to serve the workforce," said McCarthy.

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About Tank-automotive and Armaments Command:

TACOM manages the Army's ground equipment supply chain, which constitutes about 60 percent of the Army's total equipment. If a Soldier drives it, shoots it, wears it or eats it, TACOM sustains it.

TACOM's Integrated Logistics Support Center executes repair parts planning and supply chain management for more than 3,500 weapon systems. These systems form the core of America's ground combat capability. When the force needs critical components delivered, whether at home or abroad, it depends on TACOM.

TACOM oversees six of the Army's manufacturing arsenals and maintenance depots across the United States, which are part of the Army's Organic Industrial Base. The industrial artisans from the Army's OIB deliver when the Army needs equipment manufactured, repaired, upgraded or modernized.

TACOM's workforce includes highly skilled and uniquely qualified professionals, from engineers and industrial artisans to senior logisticians and business analysts. The largely civilian workforce is critical to supporting Army readiness around the world.

The Detroit Arsenal, home to TACOM headquarters, is the only active-duty U.S. Army installation in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. Detroit Arsenal and its Michigan-based workforce of more than 6000 people contribute billions of dollars in economic impact to the region's economy each year.