Defense Transportation Journal

NDTA Headquarters Staff

VADM William A. Brown, USN (Ret.)

President & CEO

COL Craig Hymes, USA (Ret.)

Senior VP, Operations

Claudia Ernst Director, Finance and Accounting

Lee Matthews

VP, Marketing and Corporate Development

Jennifer Reed Operations Manager

Leah Ashe

Membership Manager

Rebecca Jones

Executive Assistant to the President & CEO

Chloe Baker

Project Coordinator

For a listing of current Committee Chairpersons, Government Liaisons, and Chapter & Regional Presidents, please visit the Association website at www.ndtahq.com.

EDITORIAL OBJECTIVES

The editorial objectives of the Defense Transportation Journal are to advance knowledge and science in defense logistics and transportation and the partnership between the commercial transportation industry and the government transporter. DTJ stimulates thought and effort in the areas of defense transportation, logistics, and distribution by providing readers with:

• News and information about defense logistics and transportation issues

• New theories or techniques

• Information on research programs

• Creative views and syntheses of new concepts

• Articles in subject areas that have significant current impact on thought and practice in defense logistics and transportation

• Reports on NDTA Chapters

EDITORIAL POLICY

The Defense Transportation Journal is designed as a forum for current research, opinion, and identification of trends in defense transportation and logistics. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily of the Editors, the Editorial Review Board, or NDTA.

EDITORIAL CONTENT

Archives are available to members on www.ndtahq.com.

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Defense Transportation Journal (ISSN 0011-7625) is published bimonthly by the National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA), a non-profit research and educational organization; 50 South Pickett Street, Suite 220, Alexandria, VA 22304-7296, 703-751-5011. Copyright by NDTA. Periodicals postage paid at Alexandria, Virginia, and at additional mailing offices.

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Facing Global Cybersecurity Challenges Head On

VADM William A. Brown, USN (Ret.) NDTA President & CEO

Greetings to all warfighters—logisticians, transporters and business innovation experts! We are a cadre of logistics and transportation professionals focused on the needs of our nation’s security. Through NDTA, we are a team confident in our ability to come together to solve the toughest logistics and transportation issues facing the US Government and our Department of Defense. Whether you are in the military, industry, or academia, the nation needs all of us at the ready.

This edition of the Defense Transportation Journal (DTJ) salutes NDTA’s 80th birthday and delves into a topic that was not even envisioned at the inception of NDTA: cyber and emerging information technologies and the need to protect and promote them to achieve decision advantage. Achieving our objectives involves cyberspace operations, cybersecurity and protection, cyber overwatch and cyber resilience.

In past issues of DTJ, Ted Rybeck, Chair of NDTA’s Cybersecurity Best Practices Committee, has written numerous articles about the need for the logistics and transportation industries to support DOD and improve their readiness and resiliency by becoming compliant with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines and the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) framework for cybersecurity. Thinking about the future, NDTA will continue to advocate and focus on solving cybersecurity challenges and protections needed to ensure industry is ready when called to action.

Today, the operational environment and the posture of our armed forces is being shaped by complex geopolitical alliances, which are shifting on an almost daily basis. Russia, China, Iran and North Korea are increasingly acting as a formal political and military alliance. The fighting in Ukraine and Russia continues. Iran is attacking Israel and the US through proxies and increasingly through direct confron-

Whether you are in the military, industry, or academia, the nation needs all of us at the ready.

tation. The INDO-PACIFIC is churning around Taiwan. Our alliances and partnerships are ever more important. US leadership is needed to maintain tangible peace and prosperity for the globalized/interconnected world that has emerged. Op tempo has not gone down and the demands on our volunteer forces are considerable. They need our support.

As a result, the Joint Force continues to operate in a contested environment— which includes operations from the homeland. During General Jacqueline Van Ovost’s tenure as the Commander, US Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), the complexity and demand frequency for military intercession has remained proportionally very high. Support for the Ukraine continues to utilize commercial and organic transportation support. At the same time, the security situation in Israel continues to deteriorate, requiring US support through air drops and weapons transfers. And the decrease of flow through the Suez and Red Sea has driven up the cost of sealifting cargo and restricted an important line of communication. As General Van Ovost de-

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parts USTRANSCOM, we want to give her a singularly noteworthy shout-out for her outstanding leadership during these challenging times, and for her vision of the future for logistics and transportation. Her support for industry in every sector, including labor, has been stellar. Her response to these ongoing operations around the world has been nothing less than remarkable and we wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

As we go to press, General Van Ovost’s replacement has been nominated, but not confirmed by the Senate, so we will respect the Senate’s authority and refrain from presuming confirmation. We hope the confirmation process goes well and highlights the fine standing of USTRANSCOM in the Joint Logistics Enterprise!

Other new leaders to the enterprise include the new Deputy Commander of USTRANSCOM, LTG Jered Helwig, USA, reporting from duty in the INDO-PACIFIC as both the J4 at INDO-PACOM, and the CG of the 8th TSC. His experience there will be vital to shaping future operational requirements in that theater. Likewise, we also welcome the new SDDC Commanding General, MG Lance Curtis, USA, reporting from US Army Forces Command, and VADM Dion English, USN, Director for Logistics, Joint Staff J4.

We look forward to seeing you at the NDTA-USTRANCOM Fall Meeting in St. Louis, Mo., Oct. 7-10, where the Board of Directors will offer a hearty and resounding “hip-hip-hooray!” for all our 2024 NDTA awardees. This DTJ’s Awards section recognizes organizations and individuals that have made notable contributions to the Association and the greater logistics and transportation community. Again, congratulations!

Thank you all and Sail fast, W.A. Brown DTJ

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Together, we underwrite the National Security Strategy and the free and open world our nation helped establish and continues to defend. We are advancing to meet the challenges of the new strategic environment, so that we can continue delivering stability and prosperity globally.

Make no mistake: We are in an era of great power competition, with adversaries evolving at an exponential pace. Nearpeer nations are using grey zone tactics

Decision Advantage: The Key Component of Credible Capacity

By Gen. Jacqueline D. Van Ovost, Commander, US Transportation Command

Near-peer nations are using grey zone tactics like economic coercion, cyber-attacks, and information operations to close off our open post-war world of rules, rights, and responsibilities.

like economic coercion, cyber-attacks, and information operations to close off our open post-war world of rules, rights, and responsibilities. Even relatively small actors are achieving strategic effects, using low-cost, long-range munitions to disrupt global trade routes. The Red Sea, which ac-

counts for 12% of the nearly $1 trillion in global trade, is a perfect example of how a hostile non-state actor directly influenced an approximate 90% decline in container shipping through the region.

These threats are exacerbated by aging transportation infrastructure, eroded sea and air capabilities, insufficient battlefield awareness and survivability capabilities, and a workforce shortage, endangering our ability to rapidly project the joint force. The Joint Deployment Distribution Enterprise (JDDE) must bolster its durability today to compete in a contested tomorrow.

We accomplish this by having the credible capacity necessary to deploy and sustain the joint force in a contested environment. Through the combined efforts of the military and our commercial partners, we deliver the decisive force required to dictate

the battlespace, and its credibility is a function of having the right capacity, readiness, and capabilities to succeed.

Most important to these capabilities are the tools necessary to share, safeguard, and assess data, providing military and commercial operators with the understanding needed to make informed decisions faster — a decision advantage.

Our future relies on the JDDE’s proven agility, as well as our deep-rooted partnerships with the National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA) and commercial industry that help us deliver for our nation.

We require improved secure communications capabilities to bolster battlefield awareness and the survivability of these vital weapons systems.

OBSTACLES TO CREDIBLE CAPACITY

We must be prepared. Adversaries will threaten our ability to maneuver, communicate, and defend critical capabilities, abroad and at home. Nearly 85% of the joint force resides in the United States, meaning near-peer competitors will look here to stifle our ability to project power.

More than 90% of our nation’s military equipment will deploy via sealift, primarily from the Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) Ready Reserve Force. Yet, 36% of these vessels are 50 years or older, with many more facing retirements in the coming years. Sealift is vital to moving the decisive force, but this capability is at risk without recapitalized ships and the merchant mariners to sail them. Every day, our Military Sealift Command relies on a dedicated group of over 6,000 civilian mariners to execute operations, but that pales to the over 13,000 required for a global conflict.

Strategic airlift follows a similar tale, plagued by degraded readiness due to aging fleets, an undefined recapitalization plan, and a lack of vital battlefield awareness systems — all necessary to deliver an immediate force tonight. Likewise, the air refueling fleet’s insufficient recapitalization

and modernization plan, along with the delay in delivery and operational readiness of the KC-46, challenges our ability to extend operational reach.

The Defense Transportation System comprises over 280 unique digital systems that directly feed the logistics enterprise, with most of them residing on the unclassified network. However, these systems don’t readily share data with each other, challenging the creation of a common operating picture that can be shared with supported commands, commercial partners, allies, and intergovernmental agencies.

The sheer complexity of this muddled system hampers decision-making and is not conducive to delivering the decision advantage needed to prevail over our adversaries. Additionally, the aging transportation infrastructure upon which this national strategic advantage lies requires immediate and ongoing investment to remain credible.

These obstacles, while many, are not insurmountable. With the combined effort of the JDDE, we have the right mix of talent, dedication, and ingenuity to meet these demands and maintain our competitive advantage.

A ROADMAP TO VICTORY

Together, we have accomplished much to address these looming challenges, including buying used vessels for the Ready Reserve Force, improving merchant marine workplace environments, reducing airlift depot maintenance time, and building digital tools to synchronize efforts. I am confident this enterprise will continue to build on these successes.

We must rebuild the maritime industry, including shipbuilding, as we continue to advocate for the complementary purchase of foreign-built vessels for immediate recapitalization. Five used vessels have been purchased by MARAD and additional purchases are in progress. We celebrate this progress while understanding that this is only an interim solution to the much larger sealift recapitalization problem.

The improvements that the Maritime Administration is implementing with the Mariner Workforce Strategic Plan will be instrumental in the recruitment, training, and retention of America’s future merchant mariners. Military Sealift Command is in full support of MARAD’s ef-

We must enable data-driven decision-making to synchronize capacity providers to outmaneuver our adversaries.

forts and has also implemented significant personnel initiatives for our civilian mariner workforce, including increasing shore leave between sailings.

As we recapitalize our organic sealift, we appreciate our partners in the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement and Voluntary Tanker Agreement as they continue to commit capability and capacity in support of national defense. Thank you to our tremendous partners that have fully subscribed to the Maritime Security Program and continue to strengthen the JDDE, even in the face of economically trying times.

We remain supportive of the continued expansion of the Tanker Security Program to ensure ready access to US flagged and operated vessels that support both commercial and military needs. Through our new bulk fuel feasibility analysis process, we have a clearer understanding of the requirements and, by leveraging decision advantage tools, we can dynamically command and control this critical asset to maximum effect in the future fight.

The C-17 Globemaster and C-5 Galaxy are integral to delivering an immediate force globally and deterring our adversaries. The KC-46 Pegasus and KC-135 Stratotanker underwrite our strategic nuclear deterrence and ability to force extend. Together, these weapon systems ensure that the joint force can operate at the depth, duration, and volume necessary to achieve national objectives. We must work with our industry partners to restore readiness targets through data analysis, predictive maintenance, and sufficient parts and supplies.

We require improved secure communications capabilities to bolster battlefield awareness and the survivability of these vital weapons systems. Modernizing these critical capabilities along with decision advantage tools will enable global, dynamic re-missioning of military and civilian aircraft as the environment changes. Addi-

tionally, these mobility weapon systems must have a deliberate and resourced plan for recapitalization and modernization.

We are thankful to our commercial partners who have taken part in the Civil Reserve Air Fleet to support national security. Your continued commitment provides us the operational flexibility needed to respond to challenging environments.

Upgrading our Defense Transportation System is vital for our continued ability to project the joint force decisively. We support the Port Infrastructure Development Program, with MARAD awarding grants to ports improving infrastructure, ensuring access to a diverse set of seaports in the homeland. We appreciate the Department of Transportation’s consideration of investing in highway segments that are critical to national defense. Our support extends to a

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freight-rail network that operates smoothly across state lines, all while adhering to predictable and consistent regulations.

We must enable data-driven decisionmaking to synchronize capacity providers to out-maneuver our adversaries. This is a vital mission imperative! We need to eliminate legacy technical debt and streamline and standardize large data sets across required systems. The developing Joint Transportation Management System (JTMS) implements business reform to enhance collaboration and interoperability among military and commercial partners, enabling a more cohesive and effective transportation capability while achieving auditability.

By leveraging advanced data analytics, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies, JTMS will provide military leaders with timely, costed transportation

Seven US Army Transportation Corps officers signed the Certificate of Incorporation for the Army Transportation Association (ATA) on Oct. 11, 1944, at precisely 10:35 a.m. In April 1949, the ATA became the National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA) to achieve unity and strength among the government and transportation industry for national defense.

options that match requirements to available commercial and military capacity. This will give them the insights they need to make informed decisions faster on the battlefield and in strategic planning, ultimately creating a decision advantage over adversaries. Leveraging the power of these tools will help us deliver a consolidated commonoperating-picture with real-time in-transit visibility and ensure we execute at the speed and scale needed in the coming years.

Simply put, decision advantage is key to credible capacity, whereby the collective efforts of the JDDE move and deliver as an unstoppable, unified force.

TOGETHER, WE MAKE THE JDDE STRONG

We need to continue leveraging the vast expertise of our enterprise and close partnerships to be ready for whatever the future holds.

We will rise to this challenge through an integrated, whole-of-government, industry, and international approach that deters and, if necessary, provides the framework to defeat our adversaries. We must recapitalize and modernize our critical air and sea capabilities to meet the demands of the new strategic environment, while we advocate for, integrate, and operationalize decisionadvantage tools today to deliver credible capacity for the future.

Along with NDTA, the USTRANSCOM team is excited to see you at the 2024 Fall Conference, where we will further explore how we are accelerating decision advantage together. Safe travels!

Together, we deliver! DTJ

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost has served as the 14th commander of USTRANSCOM since 2021. She was nominated to that post by President Biden, becoming the second woman to lead a unified combatant command. Previously, the Senate confirmed Gen. Van Ovost as commander of Air Mobility Command in 2020, and she gained her fourth star. She has been awarded two Air Force Distinguished Service Medals, two Defense Superior Service Medals, two Legion of Merit, and two Bronze Stars.

A C-17 Globemaster conducts flight operations at Travis Air Force Base, Calif. (US Air Force photo by Heide Couch)

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Supporting NDTA and the U.S. Warfighter Deployed Globally

Spent Fuel Transportation Cybersecurity in the Energy Sector for Public Health and Safety

By Tiffany Weitoish, Capitol Technology University and Darrell Norman Burrell, Capitol Technology University

Whether you’re moving spent fuel rods, military munitions or military equipment, the procedures described are similar for reducing and managing cybersecurity threats.

The transportation of used nuclear fuel represents a critical and sensitive component of national security infrastructure. The US Navy completed nearly 850 shipments of used fuel from naval propulsion reactors throughout 1.6 million transportation miles, exemplifying the extensive logistical efforts required to manage this hazardous material. Furthermore, over 250 transportation containers of used nuclear fuel from foreign research reactors have traversed US territories over a period of 22 years, underscoring the international dimension of these operations.

Despite stringent regulatory frameworks and robust safety measures, the transportation of used nuclear fuel is fraught with cybersecurity risks, threats, and vulnerabilities that terrorists and hostile nation-states can exploit. The transportation of used nuclear fuel, whether from naval reactors, national, or international research facilities relies heavily on digital systems for coordination and management, including monitoring transportation routes, schedules, and security protocols. This reliance on digital infrastructure introduces significant cybersecurity risks that malicious actors can exploit.

Cybersecurity threats in this context can be categorized as vulnerabilities in digital systems, cyber-physical threats, and human factors. Digital systems, essential for managing the logistics of nuclear fuel transportation, are susceptible to various cyber-attacks. Unauthorized access to sensitive information

Despite stringent regulatory frameworks and robust safety measures, the transportation of used nuclear fuel is fraught with cybersecurity risks, threats, and vulnerabilities that terrorists and hostile nation-states can exploit.

through data breaches can compromise the safety of shipments by revealing critical details such as transportation schedules and security measures.

Insider threats, where disgruntled employees or contractors with access to sensitive information and systems intentionally compromise security, are particularly insidious. Cybercriminals can deploy ransomware to

encrypt crucial data, halting operations and demanding a ransom for release. Phishing and social engineering tactics can deceive employees into divulging sensitive information or granting unauthorized access, compromising security. Additionally, malware infections can corrupt data and disrupt operations, potentially causing physical harm to transportation infrastructure.

Cyber-attacks can disrupt communication networks and control systems, leading to the misrouting of nuclear fuel shipments or the disabling of security measures. Such attacks can manipulate safety protocols, resulting in improperly secured or monitored transportation containers, increasing the risk of accidents or theft. Advanced cyber-attacks may even seize control of vehicles, posing severe safety risks and potentially catastrophic outcomes. Addressing cybersecurity risks, threats, and vulnerabilities requires a comprehensive and proactive approach.

Insider threats, where disgruntled employees or contractors with access to sensitive information and systems intentionally compromise security, are particularly insidious.

RISK MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORKS THWART RISKY BUSINESS

Risk management frameworks are systematic processes designed to identify, evaluate, and mitigate risks to an organization's operations and objectives. They aim to reduce the likelihood and impact of adverse events, ensuring continuity and resilience. The key elements of risk management frameworks are:

1. Risk identification. Identification involves recognizing potential threats that could negatively impact operations. Proactive approaches to risk identification include cybersecurity recognizing threats such as data breaches, ransomware, phishing attacks, and physical threats to transportation logistics and safety protocols.

2. Risk assessment. Risk assessment evaluates the identified risks to determine their likelihood and potential impact. This process helps prioritize risks, focusing on the greatest security and operational integrity threat. For nuclear fuel transportation, risk assessments must consider the criticality of digital systems and the potential consequences of cyber-physical attacks.

3. Risk mitigation. Risk mitigation involves implementing strategies to reduce the likelihood or impact of risks. Proactive risk mitigation requires using controls, policy changes, and procedural adjustments designed to enhance security and resilience. Effective risk mitigation for nuclear fuel transportation requires robust encryption, multifactor authentication, and secure communication channels.

4. Risk monitoring. Continuous risk monitoring ensures that new threats are promptly identified, and existing controls remain effective. Engaged risk monitoring involves regular audits, security assessments, and updates to risk management plans. Monitoring is crucial for adapting to the evolving threat landscape in nuclear fuel transportation.

5. Risk communication. Effective communication of risks and mitigation strategies ensures that all stakeholders know their roles and responsibilities in maintaining security. Engaged risk communication includes training programs, regular updates, and clear documentation of procedures and policies.

TAKE CONTROL WITH RISK MITIGATION FRAMEWORKS

Risk mitigation frameworks are structured approaches designed to implement controls and strategies that minimize the impact of identified risks. Their purpose is to create a resilient operational environment where potential threats are effectively managed, ensuring the safety and security of critical processes. In nuclear fuel transportation, risk mitigation frameworks focus on protecting digital systems, transportation logistics, and regulatory compliance from cybersecurity threats. The five key elements of risk mitigation frameworks are:

1. Preventive controls. Preventive controls are measures implemented to prevent security incidents from occurring. A proactive approach includes access controls, encryption, and secure software development practices. For nuclear fuel transportation, preventive controls ensure that only authorized personnel can access critical systems and data.

2. Detective controls. Detective controls are measures designed to promptly identify and respond to security incidents. These controls include intrusion detection systems, security monitoring, and anomaly detection. Detective controls are essential for identifying cyber-attacks in real-time and mitigating their impact.

3. Corrective controls. Corrective controls are measures taken to address and rectify security incidents after they occur. These controls include incident response plans, disaster recovery procedures, and system restoration processes. Corrective controls ensure that operations can quickly resume following a security breach.

4. Compensating controls. Compensating controls are alternative measures implemented when primary controls are not feasible or fail. These controls provide additional layers of security to ensure risk mitigation. In nuclear fuel transportation, compensating controls include backup communication systems and manual override procedures.

5. Administrative controls. Administrative controls involve policies, procedures, and training programs designed to enhance security awareness and compliance. These controls ensure that personnel understand and adhere to security protocols, reducing the risk of human error. Administrative controls are critical for maintaining a secure operational environment for nuclear fuel transportation.

APPROACHES TO RISK MANAGEMENT AND MITIGATION

Implementing risk management and mitigation frameworks involves various approaches tailored to address specific organizational needs and risks. The following methods are particularly relevant to the transportation of used nuclear fuel.

Risk-Based Approach

The risk-based approach prioritizes security measures based on the level of risk they mitigate. This approach begins with a comprehensive risk assessment to identify the most critical vulnerabilities and threats. These management approaches evaluate risks to digital systems, transportation routes, and physical security measures for nuclear fuel transportation and then implement controls that address the highest risks first.

Risk mitigation frameworks are structured approaches designed to implement controls and strategies that minimize the impact of identified risks.

Layered Security (Defense in Depth)

Layered security, or defense in depth, involves implementing multiple layers of security controls to protect information assets. This approach ensures that additional layers provide continued protection if one layer is compromised. Layered security might include physical security measures, network security controls, and data encryption in transporting used nuclear fuel.

Continuous Monitoring and Improvement

Continuous monitoring and improvement are essential for maintaining effective security over time. This approach involves regularly reviewing and updating security

YEARS

In 1958, NDTA held its 13th annual Convention and Logistics Forum in St. Louis, Mo. Today, the co-sponsored NDTA-USTRANSCOM Fall Meeting is hosted regularly in St. Louis near USTRANSCOM headquarters with alternating venues across the United States.

measures, conducting vulnerability assessments, and monitoring for new threats. For nuclear fuel transportation, continuous monitoring ensures that security measures remain effective against evolving cybersecurity threats.

Incident-Driven Approach

The incident-driven approach focuses on preparing for and responding to security incidents. This approach involves developing detailed incident response plans, conducting regular drills, and learning from past incidents to improve future responses. In nuclear fuel transportation, an incidentdriven approach ensures that all stakeholders are prepared to respond quickly and effectively to any security breaches.

Application to the Transportation of Used Nuclear Fuel

The transportation of used nuclear fuel involves significant cybersecurity risks that must be managed by implementing robust risk management and mitigation frameworks. By understanding the elements and approaches of these frameworks, organiza-

tions can protect the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of their information systems and data.

Risk Management in Nuclear Fuel Transportation

Effective risk management for nuclear fuel transportation involves identifying potential cybersecurity threats to digital systems, transportation routes, and physical security measures. These risk management activities include assessing the likelihood and impact of data breaches, ransomware attacks, and cyber-physical threats. By prioritizing risks, organizations can allocate resources to the most critical areas, ensuring that security measures address the highest risks first.

Risk Mitigation Strategies

Risk mitigation strategies involve implementing controls and measures to reduce the likelihood or impact of identified risks. For nuclear fuel transportation, robust encryption, multi-factor authentication, and secure communication channels are essential preventive controls. Intrusion detection systems and security monitoring provide effective detective controls. Incident response plans and disaster recovery procedures are critical corrective controls, ensuring quick and effective action in response to security breaches.

Best Practices to Address Cybersecurity Risks

The energy critical infrastructure sector must adopt comprehensive and proactive strategies to mitigate the cybersecurity risks of transporting civilian-used nuclear fuel.

These strategies involve strengthening digital system security, enhancing cyber-physical security, addressing human factors, fostering collaborative efforts and information sharing, implementing advanced technologies, and ensuring regulatory compliance and adherence to industry standards.

Strengthen Digital System Security

A critical component of mitigating cybersecurity risks is regularly assessing security measures within digital systems. Conducting frequent security assessments and vulnerability scans can identify and address weaknesses, thereby fortifying the system against potential attacks. Implementing robust encryption protocols is essential to protect sensitive data during transmission and storage, preventing unauthorized access. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) should be employed to access critical systems, adding an extra layer of security beyond traditional passwords. Network segmentation can also enhance security by isolating essential systems from less secure networks, reducing the potential impact of breaches.

Enhance Cyber-Physical Security

Developing integrated security protocols that address physical and cybersecurity threats is paramount for comprehensive protection. Deploying advanced monitoring systems to detect and respond to cyber-physical threats in real time minimizes potential damage and ensures prompt remediation of issues.

Address Human Factors

Cybersecurity training and awareness programs are crucial for educating employees

about potential threats and best practices. Regular training sessions can improve vigilance and readiness, reducing susceptibility to social engineering attacks. Insider threat programs should be developed to detect and mitigate risks posed by employees or contractors with access to sensitive information. These programs include background checks, monitoring access to critical systems, and establishing clear reporting mechanisms for suspicious behavior.

Collaborative Efforts and Information Sharing

Collaboration between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and cybersecurity experts is essential for sharing best practices, threat intelligence, and incident response strategies. Participation in information-sharing initiatives, such as the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency's (CISA) Information Sharing and Analysis Centers (ISACs), helps organizations stay informed about emerging threats and vulnerabilities, facilitating a coordinated response.

Implement Advanced Technologies

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies can significantly enhance cybersecurity by detecting anomalies, predicting potential threats, and automating response actions. Blockchain technology offers a secure and transparent method for tracking nuclear fuel shipments, ensuring data integrity, and preventing tampering.

Regulatory Compliance and Standards

Ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and standards set by the NRC,

DOT, and other governing bodies is fundamental for maintaining high levels of security. Adopting industry standards like the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework provides a structured approach to guide cybersecurity practices and policies.

TAKE A ROBUST APPROACH TO CYBERSECURITY

The transportation of nuclear fuel in the United States involves inherent cybersecurity risks that must be addressed to safeguard critical infrastructure. These risks, encompassing vulnerabilities in digital systems, cyber-physical threats, and human factors, highlight the need for a robust and comprehensive approach to cybersecurity. By understanding the nature of these risks and implementing comprehensive best practices such as advanced technologies, regulatory compliance, and collaborative efforts, the energy sector can significantly enhance its resilience against cyber threats. Ensuring the secure transport of nuclear fuel is essential for protecting national security and maintaining the integrity of critical infrastructure in the face of evolving cyber threats.

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) provides guidance based on existing standards, guidelines, and practices for organizations to better manage and reduce cybersecurity risk. It is designed to enhance the protection and resilience of critical infrastructure and to be adaptable across various industries, including utilities and organizations responsible for spent nuclear fuel.

Government contractors must maintain thorough documentation of their cybersecurity practices, including risk assessments,

incident response plans, and recovery strategies. This documentation is crucial for demonstrating compliance during audits and inspections by federal agencies. Contractors should also be prepared to provide regular reports on their cybersecurity status, including any incidents or breaches that have occurred. DTJ

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Tiffany Weitoish is a dedicated doctoral student at Capitol Technology University, where she is pursuing a PhD in Cyber Leadership. She holds a master's degree in Cybersecurity Studies from American Military University and a master's degree in criminology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She has a robust background in cybersecurity, investigations, and computer forensics, and can be reached at tweitoish@captechu.edu.

Dr. Darrell Norman Burrell is a doctoral faculty member at Marymount University and a dissertation examiner at Capitol Technology University. He has been a remote visiting scholar at the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Institute for Leadership, Equity, and Justice at Rutgers University. Dr. Burrell is a visiting researcher at Pellegrino Center for Clinical Bioethics at the Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, DC. He can be reached at dburrell@marymount.edu.

See References on page 46.

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In 2016, NDTA hosted the first GovTravels, an annual symposium on government travel and passenger services, in Alexandria, Va. The inaugural event was designed with input from private sector and government travel stakeholders, including GSA and the Defense Travel Management Office, to engage participants at all levels of experience in meaningful dialogue on the future of the travel industry. The first symposium attracted over 40 federal and state agencies, more than 75 private sector companies, and 323 attendees. In 2024, GovTravels boasted more than 1,100 attendees.

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An Intern’s View: Unexpected Lessons from a Transformative Internship with NDTA

By Jasper Byrnes

Hello! I’m a third-year honors student at the University of California, Santa Barbara, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in political science with a concentration in international relations and security studies. I’m also minoring in philosophy, architecture, and urban history.

When I’m not in class, I am an UnderSecretary-General of the UC Santa Barbara Model United Nations Club, where I manage the committees during our Fall annual conference. Being a leader in the Model UN Club enables me to practice policy research, write and perform speeches, study the dynamics of international cooperation, and simulate diplomatic relations and policy negotiations at nationwide collegiate conferences. These experiences allowed me to engage, research, and debate diverse topics at the forefront of international relations.

In my free time, I enjoy taking advantage of all UC Santa Barbara offers, including California’s beautiful Santa Ynez mountains and beaches of the Central Coast. I enjoy playing rugby with my friends and teammates and traveling with them throughout California to play matches against other universities. I grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area so, earlier this year, I was excited to come home for a typical summer vacation of surfing, road trips, camping, playing video games, catching up with old friends, and spending quality time with my Samoyed puppy named Mochi.

My summer plans took an unexpected turn when I decided to satisfy my passion for immersive and experiential learning instead. In college, it’s often difficult to seize opportunities for long-term career planning while managing the current term’s courseload and extracurriculars. Fortunately, I was honored to receive an NDTA National Scholarship Award in 2022 and, since then, multiple awards from my local NDTA San Francisco Bay Area Chapter.

After reaching out, I was offered a summer internship at NDTA’s Headquarters in Alexandria, Va. I spent June through August in Washington, DC, as part of

the University of California DC program, where I received academic credit toward my bachelor’s degree for full-time internships. At NDTA, I made a university contact directory to manage outreach and partnerships and created a historical database centralizing recipient information for NDTA’s national awards. I assisted staff with the social media accounts, posts, publications, and event preparation for this year’s NDTA-USTRANSCOM Fall Meeting in St. Louis, Mo.

The internship had some major highlights, such as a visit with the American Maritime Congress, arranged by VADM William A. Brown, USN (Ret.), to discuss current events, legislation, American shipbuilding, and naval power. I also was lucky enough to tag along on a location scouting trip for future NDTA conferences, where I learned about corporate event

try, giving me a new perspective on the critical importance of supply chain resilience and the mutual understanding necessary for the United States to always uphold its security commitments worldwide.

I have a deeper appreciation now for how the partnership between the United States government and corporations finds logistics solutions in such a dynamic and interconnected global environment. I see the scale and complexities of managing the missions of the defense transportation, logistics, and passenger travel industry as impressive and extraordinary, such as:

• Ensuring the reliability of thousands of interconnected supply routes across international, agency, and departmental jurisdictions over land, sea, and air.

planning and government-sponsored conferences. I took photos and copious notes to document critical information that would help later in the selection process.

Throughout my summer experience, I learned about the vital, complex, and often underappreciated role of the logistics and transportation industry in national security, military operations, and humanitarian missions abroad. My internship allowed me to explore the operations, relationships, and organizational structure of the indus-

• Collating and managing the necessary permits, contracts, manifest, and tracking documentation through foreign ports and contested environments, especially when transporting hazardous materials or exceptionally sensitive cargo.

• Maintaining the health and readiness of a global network of depots, factories, bases, and prepositioned supplies, equipping warfighters, and aid personnel to respond to any threat or humanitarian disaster that may arise.

• Providing transportation, housing, and provisioning for personnel and

NDTA staff members, pictured left to right: Claudia Ernst, Director, Finance and Accounting; Leah Ashe, Membership Manager; Jasper Byrne, Intern; Chloe Baker, Project Coordinator; Rebecca Jones, Executive Assistant to the President & CEO; and Craig Hymes, Senior VP, Operations.

their families who serve this country while stationed abroad.

• Continually evaluating and improving the logistical chain to increase resilience, flexibility, and our ability to withstand stressors, delays, and emergencies.

• Finally, accomplishing all these missions while establishing layers of cybersecurity, managing long-term procurement projects and budget constraints, and maintaining operational security and sufficient counterintelligence measures.

The expansive capabilities of the defense logistics and transportation community are a significant, but often underrecognized component of the United States deterrence and forward deployment strategy. The credibility of any deterrent threat the United States establishes is determined by a combination of our military’s capability and resolve. Persuading our adversaries to acquiesce requires demonstrating in no uncertain terms that the United States military has the logistical capacity and vigilance to initiate action, sustain any intervention, and fulfill our commitments.

A resilient logistics and transportation community is necessary for maintaining our global posture and service to our alliances and security commitments in Europe, the Middle East, and the IndoPacific region. Showing our allies and adversaries that we can reliably deliver mission-critical cargo and maximize our military’s readiness is invaluable in signaling the United States’s unwavering resolve and superior capabilities.

Thankfully, we can entrust our vibrant industry with critical supply chains that support warfighters’ needs and withstand the pressures of international crises. The industry’s prowess and partnerships enable the government’s tacticians, planners, and national security leaders to be confident and decisive in their strategy. From warehouse to battlefield and dock to runway, the private sector’s expertise and capacity to provide rapid, innovative, and consistent solutions are unmatched and necessary for the United States military and humanitarian relief operations at home and abroad.

I am eager to see what new strategies the industry, its partners, USTRANSCOM and USINDOPACOM, will implement to meet the region’s geographic challenges. I am confident in the indus-

try’s ingenuity and its ability to prevail, bolstering readiness, ensuring combat effectiveness, and our deployed forces’ safe and timely resupply.

While at NDTA, I concurrently interned with the Osgood Center for International Studies where I researched Indo-Pacific security, defense technology, and military intelligence coordinated its annual summer symposium. I also attended many speaking events at worldrenowned and trusted research institutes and Congressional hearings with my Osgood Center colleagues. These events featured key researchers, experts, diplomats, officers, ambassadors, generals, senators, and secretaries within the Department of Defense, Congress, allied foreign governments, and research institutes.

From the beginning, I planned to attend speaking events that would focus my research on topics to augment my experience with NDTA, including:

• Long-range missile defense and logistics in Guam.

• Defense industrial policy and cooperation with South Korea.

• Protecting maritime trade in the Red Sea by the US Fifth Fleet Chinese naval power and projection.

• AI-enabled drone warfare projects within the Department of Defense and their applications in the Taiwanese Strait.

• Production diplomacy with AUKUS and Japan in the Indo-Pacific.

• The Navy’s new Distributed Maritime Operations (DMO) strategy and the transition from a Carrier Strike Group-based force structure.

• Marine Corps’ new force design and amphibious and littoral warfare capabilities.

• The United States’ global nuclear posture, strategic innovation, modernization, and bolstering deterrence with NATO and with allies in the IndoPacific.

• Lessons learned from the war in Ukraine on the importance of resilient defense-industrial supply chains.

• Air Mobility Command’s capabilities to sustain and deliver for the Joint Force in contested environments, crises, and conflict.

Taking what we learned, we practiced writing analytical policy briefs at Osgood Center, which are standard in government work and are the lifeblood of writ-

ten communication through bureaucracy and business. Honing my writing skills in this area complemented my learning experience at NDTA and will be valuable in my future career endeavors.

Both internships were excellent opportunities for professional development, connecting with and gaining insights from national security professionals who have become resources for education, career advice, and rewarding mentorship.

I will use this new-found knowledge to propel me toward more internships and opportunities as an undergraduate and prepare me for professional and academic growth when I study abroad at the University College London in England next year. My long-range goal is to earn my master’s degree in the National Capitol Region and build a life-long career in public service within the State Department, Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, NATO, the United Nations, or even as a Naval Officer.

I want to thank VADM William A. Brown, USN (Ret.), COL Craig Hymes, USA (Ret.), the NDTA HQ staff, the former President of the NDTA San Francisco Bay Area Chapter, Rob Brown, and the Chapter President and Pacific Southwest Regional President, Will Martin, for being so welcoming and supportive. It has been a pleasure working with the team and having the opportunity to learn all about NDTA’s corporate members this summer. I appreciate and honor NDTA’s commitment to educating the next generation of defense transportation, logistics, and national security leaders. DTJ

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jasper Byrne is NDTA’s 2024 Summer Intern located in Washington, DC. In 2022, he received a National Scholarship Award and the 2024 Len Arbitter Scholarship from the NTDA San Francisco Chapter. Jasper is a third-year honors student at UC Santa Barbara. Next year, he will study at the University College London in England.

Mochi is Jasper’s beloved canine companion and served as his inspiration for this article. In their free time, they like to hang out at the beach and play frisbee.

NDTA has a number of awards that recognize individual and corporate members, as well as chapters and military units, that have excelled in fostering the goals and aims of the Association. We congratulate this year’s award winners and thank them for their contributions to the Association, and to the greater logistics and transportation community.

JOSEPH A. TORSANI MEMORIAL AWARD FOR LIFETIME SERVICE & ACHIEVEMENT

Over the course of decades, COL Joseph A. Torsani, Jr., USA (Ret.), dedicated his time, leadership and logistics expertise to the National Defense Transportation Association. COL Torsani served tirelessly in key positions at the state and national levels, and truly embodied NDTA’s values and commitment to education, knowledge sharing and fostering the next generation of professionals. In his memory and in the spirit of his many contributions to the Association, NDTA proudly presents the Torsani Award, the highest honor the Association can bestow, on a special basis to recognize many years of service to and advocacy for the Association.

Mr. Ernest Bezdek

Senior Director of Trade, Port of Beaumont, Chair, NDTA Ports Subcommittee, and NDTA President Southwestern Region

Mr. Ernest Bezdek is awarded the 2024 Joseph A. Torsani Memorial Award for Lifetime Service and Achievement by the National Defense Transportation Association. Over the past four decades, Mr. Bezdek has distinguished himself in the service of his country and NDTA through the work he has done in the transportation industry, providing deployment and redeployment support to US Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) in and through the nation’s strategic seaports.

As an NDTA volunteer and member, his dedication and devotion is outstanding and beyond compare. First, as the President of the Houston, Texas, Chapter he provided key leadership for government and industry members in Beaumont, Texas, and the surrounding Houston area, building relationships and educational opportunities for everyone involved. Mr. Bezdek then became the NDTA Regional President for the Southwest Region, encompassing the entire state of Texas, including the Houston, DallasFort Worth and the San Antonio Chapters of NDTA. Simultaneously, he took on the responsibilities as the NDTA Chair, Ports Subcommittee under the NDTA Surface Committee where he led the way in his efforts to support the Port Readiness Program by focusing attention on the strategic seaports. His individual efforts were key to the establishment of the first NDTA-CAS Ports Conference in 2019, which grew into today’s Surface Force Projection Conference (SFPC). Mr. Bezdek has continued to play a key role on the SFPC Planning Team, participated in panels and supported the strategic ports and Ports Subcommittee planning meetings. Mr. Bezdek has been an NDTA champion, fully supporting the organization with his time, talent and personal involvement. Mr. Bezdek’s exemplary service in the transportation industry and his lifetime of dedicated support to NDTA’s goals and objectives are worthy of the highest honor NDTA can bestow and provide an example for all members to emulate.

Mr. Ron Lane is hereby awarded the NDTA National Transportation Award for his truly profound contributions in the field of aviation logistics and transportation. Mr. Lane’s efforts over a lengthy period have been instrumental in building and maintaining a strong relationship between the Department of Defense and the Commercial Aviation Community as he helped to maintain a ready commercial force in support of national defense. He served at Atlas Air Worldwide for 25 years and, as a highly active leader on the NDTA Military Aviation Advisory Committee (MAAC), and an expert in the Civil Reserve Air Fleet (CRAF) Program, his expertise and advice guided the CRAF program for the mutual benefit of the government and industry. His participation in multiple DOD joint exercises enhanced the department’s understanding of commercial aircraft employment and utilization in joint operations. Mr. Lane’s accomplishments as an industry leader and NDTA member uphold the finest traditions of the Association. For his truly distinctive service to industry and our nation, Mr. Ron Lane is awarded the NDTA National Transportation Award.

NATIONAL DEFENSE LEADERSHIP AWARD

MG Gavin Lawrence, USA, is awarded the NDTA National Defense Leadership Award as the Commanding General of the Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC) during the past two years. MG Lawrence was a strong advocate for USTRANSCOM’s 4th Component (Industry), resulting in military supplies and equipment being delivered on time and on target. He placed priority and special emphasis on the relationship between SDDC and industry through forums with the Joint Deployment and Distribution Enterprise (JDDE), Army Sustainment Enterprise, and the Department of Defense. MG Lawrence is committed to the NDTA Surface Committee and all associated subcommittees. He represented US government interests while balancing the responsive support of our industry partners. MG Lawrence provided key partnership support to the NDTA-CAS Surface Force Projection Conference, serving several times as keynote speaker and panel moderator. Through this conference, he communicated military support requirements, captured working actions, and strengthened relationships with industry. He also supported the annual NDTA-USTRANSCOM Fall Meeting and improved the JDDE readiness by providing extensive SDDC training and engagement through live computer demonstrations, Transportation Academy classes, and numerous command-led meetings. For his dedicated leadership to USTRANSCOM, the JDDE and support for NDTA goals and objectives, MG Lawrence is presented with the National Defense Leadership Award.

Ms. Leigh E. Method, SES Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Logistics (DASD(Logistics)), Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment

Ms. Leigh E. Method, Senior Executive Service, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Logistics, Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, is hereby presented with the NDTA DOD Distinguished Service Award for her logistics and transportation service to the nation. Her contributions were significant as she advocated and collaborated to standardize and communicate installation access procedures for truck drivers and train crews, collaborated with SDDC to create a survey/data collection site for installation access that confirmed no systemic problems, and established a DOD/industry working group to address installation access issues. With an eye on the future, Ms. Method shifted Milestone Decision Authority to USTRANSCOM to support development of the Joint Transportation Management System initiative to modernize the Joint Deployment and Distribution Enterprise data functionality and financial auditability. She skillfully provided policy expertise and conducted oversight of USTRANSCOM’s implementation of the DOD’s $17.9 billion Global Household Goods Contract (GHC) with a phased approach of shipments and resolution of legal actions. Ms. Method conducted principal-level coordination on a SECDEF Implementation Memorandum designating USTRANSCOM as the Single Manager for Global Bulk Fuel Management and Delivery. For her truly distinctive service to our nation and DOD as an Air Force Officer and Senior Executive, Ms. Leigh Method is hereby awarded the NDTA DOD Distinguished Service Award.

NDTA DOD DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

Mr. Ron Lane Special Advisor to Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

Major General Gavin Lawrence, USA Commanding General, Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC)

Mr. Jerry Thomas

Director for the Transportation Management Division, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) HQ, Logistics Directorate, Washington, DC

Mr. Jerry Thomas, Director for the Transportation Management Division, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) HQ, Logistics Directorate, Washington, DC, is hereby presented the NDTA Distinguished Government Service Award for his outstanding service to the nation in the field of transportation. Mr. Thomas manages all components of transportation management, which include movements for both steady state and disaster operations in support of CONUS and OCONUS operations. He is responsible for the rapid delivery of critical resources for FEMA and other interagency requirements that encompass the life-saving and life-sustaining commodities, equipment, and the operation of the Movement Coordination Center during the activation of the National Response Coordination Center, scheduling all modes of transportation and tracking to destination. Since 2012, he has been instrumental in over 35 major disaster responses, including Hurricanes Sandy, Harvey, Irma, Maria, Michael, Laura, Ida and Ian; Typhoons Yutu and Mawar; numerous wildfires; and the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to assuming his current position, he served as the Transportation Advisor to the Assistant Administrator for Logistic Management and as a Senior Logistics Advisor to the Deputy Commanding General for Support with the United States Forces-Afghanistan. Mr. Thomas has 30 years of active-duty Army service that includes assignments with HQ Department of the Army, US Army G-4 (Logistics), Office of the Secretary of Defense (Transportation Policy) and Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command. For his exceptional leadership and devotion to the nation, Mr. Thomas is presented with the NDTA Distinguished Government Service Award.

Mr. Will Martin Director, Military Sales –Government Trade, American President Lines LLC, and Pacific Region and San Francisco Bay Area Chapter President

NDTA PRESIDENT’S AWARD

The National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA) Board of Directors has selected Mr. Will Martin, Director of Military Sales – Government Trade, American President Lines LLC, to receive the National Defense Transportation Association President’s Award for his superior service and many significant contributions to NDTA for over fourteen years as the NDTA President for the Pacific Southwest Region and the Pacific Region, along with serving as the Chapter President of the San Francisco Bay Area Chapter. Mr. Martin is one of NDTA’s most determined and resolute members who leads by example, always willing to roll up his sleeves to make things happen. He has been the driving force that has kept the San Francisco Bay Area Chapter going. Mr. Martin continuously recruited new Chapter members and new board officers and, when needed, he covered the gaps and stood watch to fill critical leadership roles when someone stepped down. Often, he filled multiple roles acting as the Chairman, President, 2nd Vice President and Treasurer. He also served as a chair or a co-chair for the Chapter’s annual fundraising events to ensure they happened. Through his individual and team efforts, he helped the Chapter provide a significant annual scholarship worth $8K to $10K each year. Mr. Martin is a credit to American President Lines and NDTA. He deserves our thanks and recognition for his efforts to maintain a strong NDTA and US national defense.

The National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA) Board of Directors has selected Ms. Theresa Lorinser, Director, Marketing Industrial Products, BNSF Railway, and Chair of the NDTA Rail Subcommittee, to receive the National Defense Transportation Association President’s Award for her many contributions to NDTA and the rail transportation industry. While serving as the subcommittee chair for over six years, Ms. Lorinser established herself as a trusted and impartial topic expert on matters involving the defense transportation and rail system. She provided defense rail expertise on numerous panels and NDTA educational forums and she participated in numerous Surface Committee meetings and USTRANSCOM Executive Working Groups, representing both Class I and short line railroads. Ms. Lorinser always advocated for best practices, security, and the efficient use of low-density, highly critical, railcar capacity during real-world operations, surges and training events. She led rail industry initiatives to educate DOD users on proper securing and inspection of freight loaded on railcars. Ms. Lorinser maintained liaisons with key senior executives at the Federal Railway Administration and senior officers of the Association of American Railroads to understand and communicate the benefits and impact of regulatory and technology changes, infrastructure improvements or concerns, rail crew training and certification requirements, and environmental regulations, always seeking to improve transportation operations for the nation. Ms. Lorinser is a credit to BNSF and NDTA and deserves our thanks and recognition for her efforts to ensure a strong US national defense.

Ms. Theresa Lorinser Director, Marketing Industrial Products, BNSF Railway, and Chair, NDTA Rail Subcommittee

Vice President, Government Services, Landstar Transportation Logistics, Inc. and Chair, NDTA Surface Transportation Committee

The NDTA Board of Directors has selected COL Michael Cashner, USA (Ret.), Vice President, Government Services, Landstar Transportation Logistics, Inc., and NDTA Surface Transportation Committee Chair to receive the National Defense Transportation Association President’s Award. For eleven years, COL Cashner has distinguished himself by co-chairing and then chairing the NDTA Surface Transportation Committee consisting of five subcommittees, including: Trucking, Rail, Ports, Munitions and Household Goods. His leadership and personal efforts built strong ties and established closer working relationships between USTRANSCOM and the Surface Transportation industry, thereby improving readiness and providing responsive support. While fulfilling his work responsibilities, COL Cashner worked tirelessly to facilitate a close tie with USTRANSCOM’s J5/4 and the Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command. Each year, he led two Surface Transportation Committee Meetings facilitating 120 to 140 surface transportation experts building relationships, educating and working on a range of issues involving transportation safety, fleet capacity, transportation infrastructure, arms, ammunition and explosives, labor, global freight management, installation access, In-Transit Visibility and cybersecurity. Additionally, he participated in USTRANSCOM’s Executive Working Groups bringing the NDTA Surface Transportation Committee representatives and subject matter experts to the table. COL Cashner always provided the NDTA Board of Directors and the Transportation Advisory Board with a wealth of relevant information on all aspects of surface transportation. He is a credit to Landstar and the National Defense Transportation Association and deserves our thanks and recognition for his efforts to maintain a strong US national defense.

Ms. Sharon Lo

Former Managing Editor, Defense Transportation Journal and The Source Newsletter

The National Defense Transportation Association Board of Directors has selected Ms. Sharon Lo, former Defense Transportation Journal (DTJ) Managing Editor, as a recipient of the 2024 NDTA President’s Award for her dedicated support to NDTA. From August 2012 through April 2024, she oversaw content and editing for 71 DTJ editions, including 11 annual DTJ Almanacs. Her personal efforts provided the logistics and transportation enterprise with relevant articles, national meeting reports, NDTA Chapter updates, and information updates to NDTA members. Along with DTJ releases, she published weekly email newsletters, known as the NDTAGram and then The Source, providing current government and industry transportation and logistics news. Her hard work and dedication were directly responsible for informing and educating the transportation and logistics community on matters of national importance. Prior to her role as Managing Editor, Ms. Lo fulfilled several important roles on the NDTA Headquarters staff, including Director of Public Relations, Events Manager, and Executive Assistant to the NDTA President and CEO. For all her hard work and support over many years, Ms. Lo deserves the thanks and recognition of all NDTA corporate, university and individual members. Her efforts to uphold NDTA’s mission to educate and support a strong national defense are truly remarkable and stand as an example to all members.

The NDTA Board of Directors has selected Mr. David L. Lange Jr., Managing Director, Aircraft Charter Operations, FedEx Express, as a recipient of the 2024 NDTA President’s Award for his dedicated support to the National Defense Transportation Association. As NDTA’s Military Aviation Advisory Committee’s Safety and Security Best Practices Subcommittee Chairman, Mr. Lange drew upon his expertise to provide critical solutions for commercial industry to augment and enhance military safe operations on civil aircraft. His industry experiences around the world established him as a transportation subject matter expert and a “go-to” contact for advice and collaboration. Understanding the value of developing our future leaders, Mr. Lange actively sought to mentor and educate those he served with on the MAAC, as well as others he worked with in government and industry. An active NDTA member for decades, Mr. Lange has tirelessly built relationships while educating those he worked with in industry, government and NDTA to promote a strong national defense. His accomplishments as an industry leader and NDTA member reflect NDTA’s finest traditions. Mr. Lange deserves to be recognized and honored for everything he has personally done to advance NDTA’s mission and improve safety and security, while supporting military operations.

COL Michael J. Cashner, USA (Ret.)

Mr. David L. Lange Jr. Managing Director, Aircraft Charter Operations, FedEx Express

Vice President, Government Programs, Omni Air International and Air Transport Services Group, Inc.

The NDTA Board of Directors has selected Ms. Trisha Frank, Vice President, Government Programs at Omni Air International and Air Transport Services Group (ATSG), as a recipient of the 2024 NDTA President’s Award for her dedicated support to the National Defense Transportation Association, the commercial aviation industry and the US government. As a member of NDTA’s Military Aviation Advisory Committee, the MAAC drew upon her expertise to provide critical solutions for commercial industry to augment and enhance military operations utilizing civil aircraft. Her industry experience has often been relied upon in support of the Civil Reserve Air Fleet Program. Ms. Frank has been an active NDTA member for decades. During that time, she tirelessly built relationships, educated those she worked with, and helped NDTA promote a strong national defense. Additionally, her participation in multiple Department of Defense joint exercises has greatly enhanced DOD’s understanding of commercial aircraft employment and utilization in joint operations. Ms. Frank’s accomplishments as an industry leader and NDTA member support the finest traditions of the National Defense Transportation Association.

The NDTA Board of Directors has selected Mr. William West Jr., Vice President, Supplemental Air Operations at FedEx, as a recipient of the 2024 NDTA President’s Award for his dedicated support to the National Defense Transportation Association, the commercial aviation industry, and the US government. A longstanding member of NDTA’s Military Aviation Advisory Committee (MAAC), Mr. West drew upon his expertise to provide critical solutions for commercial industry to augment and enhance military operations on civil aircraft. His profound industry experience established him as a transportation subject matter expert and a highly valuable partner for advice and collaboration. Mr. West actively sought to mentor and educate those he served with on the MAAC, as well as others he worked with in government and industry. Mr. West has been an active NDTA member for decades. During that time, he tirelessly built relationships, educated those he worked with, and helped NDTA promote a strong national defense. Mr. West’s accomplishments as an industry leader and NDTA member uphold the finest traditions of the National Defense Transportation Association.

The NDTA Board of Directors has selected Mr. Ted Rybeck, Chair, Benchmarking Partners, CEO, Venly and Chair, NDTA Cybersecurity Best Practices Committee, to receive the National Defense Transportation Association President’s Award. Beginning in 2021, Mr. Rybeck embarked on a two-year journey writing a series of cybersecurity articles for the Defense Transportation Journal designed to encourage, inform and guide NDTA logistics and transportation industry members to take action to reduce their vulnerability and improve their resilience to a cybersecurity attack. His individual efforts have helped industry better understand and align with USTRANSCOM Cybersecurity priorities, alerted a community already vulnerable to attack and provide specific examples of how industry can achieve higher levels of cybersecurity compliance and readiness. As the NDTA Chair focused on cybersecurity, Mr. Rybeck has been relentless in his efforts to sound the alarm to both government and industry over critical vulnerabilities. His efforts to bring key government and industry representatives together, his personal efforts to educate leaders meeting in committee, and his participation in panels and fireside chats are truly inspirational and are a testimony to his commitment. Mr. Rybeck’s leadership on cybersecurity is remarkable and worthy of recognition by all NDTA members.

In 1966, NDTA established the Airlift Committee—its first major military committee—to meet with members of the Military Airlift Command (MAC) to discuss and exchange ideas on broad management airlift problems within the military. Today, NDTA has six functional committees chaired by industry and composed of senior government liaisons and industry leaders who examine and recommend solutions on critical government, military, and industry issues in their respective fields.

Ms. Trisha Frank

Mr. William West Jr. Vice President, Supplemental Air Operations, FedEx

Mr. Ted Rybeck Chair, Benchmarking Partners, CEO, Venly, and Chair, NDTA Cybersecurity Best Practices Committee

The NDTA Board of Directors has selected Mr. Christopher D. Thayer, SES, former Director, Maritime Operations (DMO), and Director, Ship Management (DSM) for Military Sealift Command (MSC) and MSC liaison to NDTA, to receive the National Defense Transportation Association President’s Award. During Mr. Thayer’s tenure as DMO and DSM, he successfully operationalized the staff and transformed both directorates into efficient, high-performing teams with a mission focus. As the DMO, Mr. Thayer provided expert leadership of six functional directorates with over 475 government service and military personnel and a $500M annual budget, directly supporting over 140 ships executing assured logistics, strategic sealift, and specialized missions for the US Navy, the Joint Force, and the Department of Defense. He successfully led the MSC operations team during a period of unusually high tasking, with MSC tankers executing 350 missions and cargo ships deploying four million tons of Joint Military Equipment and 173,000 tons of vital combat materiel in support of Ukraine. His leadership and steadfast dedication to the Joint Warfighter enabled a path to expand to 18 CONSOL tankers with the inception and implementation of the 10-ship Tanker Security Program (TSP). Mr. Thayer deserves to be recognized and honored for all that he has personally done to advance USTRANSCOM, MSC and NDTA’s mission to provide a strong national defense.

YEARS

Launched in 2019 as the Ports Conference, the annual Surface Force Projection Conference (SFPC) is cohosted by Christopher Newport University’s Center for American Studies and NDTA. Here, U.S. government and industry logistics and transportation experts and members of the Joint Logistics Enterprise (JLE) examine a wide range of challenges associated with deploying forces and moving sustainment to the point of need.

SIKICH STARS CMMC PROGRAM

The Sikich STARS (Scope, Train, Assess, Remediate, Support) CMMC readiness program supports clients by simplifying CMMC certification and the implementation of NIST SP 800-171 for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), which ultimately protects the battlefield’s warfighter.

As part of this program, Sikich assists with scoping the CMMC enclave, completing self-assessment scoring, identifying compliance gaps, completing the Plan of Action and Milestones (POAM) remediation planning, and documenting the System Security Plan (SSP). We also function as your outsourced cybersecurity and risk consulting partner, helping to guide efforts related to achieving and maintaining compliance.

Mr. Christopher D. Thayer, SES former Director, Maritime Operations, Military Sealift Command

Hover camera over code to learn more

This award recognizes a commercial industry or government agency logistics provider that, in the previous year, provided innovative services consisting of mission-related or administrative services, which have significantly reduced the military forces’ nonoperational burden and allowed them to concentrate greater efforts on their core competencies. Services may include procurement, warehousing, transportation, information technology, security, human resources development, process design and execution, and applications allowing synergies with other systems.

The Lampin Corporation is selected to receive the NDTA Innovative Logistics Service Award for their efforts to improve cybersecurity readiness, serving as an example to all members of the US Defense Industrial Base (DIB). The Lampin Corporation is a small business critical to the Defense Industrial Base manufacturing precision machined parts. Founded in 1964 in the Blackstone Valley of Massachusetts, which is the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, Lampin is 100 percent employee owned. Lampin is a supplier to the air, land, sea, and space supply chain. Specifically, Lampin serves as a DIB supplier for military robots, maritime navigation and propulsion equipment, reusable space logistics, and aircraft manufacturers. Despite having no internal information technology staff, Lampin has taken a CEO-driven approach to proactively adopting the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) cyber controls needed for the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification. To Lampin, cybersecurity is an extension of product and process quality that will help customers and suppliers depend on Lampin as a strategic partner. Lampin calls this a “thrive vs. threat” approach to cybersecurity. Lampin is recognized by the National Defense Transportation Association for their excellent work and deserves our thanks and recognition for their cybersecurity efforts thereby strengthening the defense industrial base.

YEARS

NDTA established the NDTA Foundation in 1961 to conduct transportation, logistics, economics, scientific and educational programs in cooperation with NDTA. Colonel Thomas J. Weed, USA (Ret.), a national vice president of NDTA, made the first contribution of $5,000. Over the past 25 years, the NDTA Foundation has funded over $900,000 in college scholarships for students pursuing an education in logistics, transportation, or passenger travel services.

NDTA SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

NATIONAL LEVEL

PROGRAM A

Ryan Edmister, California Maritime Academy

Zachary Hardy, Maine Maritime Academy

Andrew Hayden, University of Tennessee Knoxville

Tyler Longwell, University of Tennessee Knoxville

Robert McDonough, California Maritime Academy

Harry Murphey, University of Pittsburgh

Daniel O’Leary, Maine Maritime Academy

Sejal Sekhar, Cornell University

Lilly Svenningsen, University of Tennessee Knoxville

James Walker, California Maritime Academy

Teleri Witt, Massachusetts Maritime Academy

William Woodhour, University of Delaware

Abigail Wroblewski, Ohio State University

PROGRAM B

Caelen Kucha, University of Virginia

Sean Pruitt, California Maritime Academy

Ty Schumann, DePauw University

Sydney Valdivia, University of South Florida

PROGRAM D

Tyler Kleinsasser, SD School of Mines & Technology

CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY NATIONAL SECURITY SCHOLARSHIPS

Emily McKenna • Justin Heller • Dylan Frederick

NDTA ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS

NDTA offers four scholarship/tuition assistance programs to NDTA members and their financial dependents, as well as one scholarship program for students at Christopher Newport University.

• ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM A: To encourage good college students to study the fields of logistics, transportation, supply chain, physical distribution, and passenger travel services.

• ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM B: To assist high school graduates achieve their academic goals in the fields of business/ management, logistics, transportation, supply chain, physical distribution, and passenger travel services.

• ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM C: To encourage good distance learning college students to study the fields of logistics, transportation, supply chain, physical distribution, and passenger travel services.

• ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM D: The Denny Edwards Graduate Scholarship: For graduate degree students majoring in the fields of logistics, transportation, supply chain, physical distribution, and passenger travel services; to provide college scholarship opportunities for NDTA members.

• CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY NATIONAL SECURITY SCHOLARSHIPS: This scholarship will provide financial assistance to students studying in a field that supports the US national defense. Up to three scholarships will be awarded annually to students studying in US national security studies, who are junior fellows in the Center for American Studies at Christopher Newport University.

NDTA scholarship/tuition assistance funds can only be disbursed to an academic institution on behalf of the successful applicant. If the institution is not known at the time an application is submitted, the successful applicant must submit documentation showing that he/ she has in fact been accepted by an institution as a full-time student before disbursements can be made.

General Edward Honor

National Defense Transportation Association Award

FOR EXCEPTIONAL ESSAY ON A LOGISTICS AND TRANSPORTATION ISSUE

This award is named in honor of Lieutenant General Edward Honor, USA (1933-2008), who was the first African American general officer in the Army Transportation Corps. He served during the Vietnam War as the commander of the 36th Transportation Group and later the 24th Transportation Group. LTG Honor also commanded the 37th Transportation Group in Germany as a Colonel.

LTG Honor’s highest positions of command include Commander of the Eastern region, Military Transportation Management Command (MTMC) from 1983 to 1984, Command of MTMC from 1986 to 1987, and Director of Logistics on the Joint Staff from 1987 to 1989. After retiring from the US Army, he served as president of NDTA from 1989 to 2002.

For the first time ever, NDTA is proud to present The Lieutenant Edward Honor National Defense Transportation Association Award for Exceptional Essay on a Logistics and Transportation Issue to LTC Carey E. Way, USA, for his paper titled Quantum Computing is Key to Predictive Logistics in Future Denied/Degraded Battlefields. The paper was published in the August 2024 issue of Defense Transportation Journal. He is a 2024 graduate of the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy, National Defense University, Fort McNair, Washington, DC.

At Enterprise, our commitment to the military has been around from the very beginning. It started with the values our founder, Jack Taylor, learned in the Navy while serving on the USS Enterprise during World War II and continues to this day.

From the convenience of renting directly on a US military base to our low-touch transactions, we’re ready whenever service members are.

LTC Carey E. Way, USA

Lieutenant General Edward Honor

The NDTA Foundation fosters the growth and development of our next generation of logistics and transportation professionals by providing annual academic scholarships. The NDTA Foundation Awards recognize corporate and individual donors who have made a significant and lasting investment in the NDTA Foundation.

NDTA FOUNDATION CORPORATE PATHFINDER SOCIETY

The NDTA Foundation Corporate Pathfinder Society recognizes donors who have demonstrated a high level of support and generosity to the Foundation for the development of future logistics and transportation leaders. The 2024 award winners are:

American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier

Matson

NDTA FOUNDATION ANNUAL AWARDS

The NDTA Foundation also recognizes industry and individual donors for their contributions on an annual basis.

The 2024 award winners are:

Patron

American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier

FedEx Matson, Inc

United Airlines

Advocate

Interstate Moving | Relocation | Logistics

National Travel, Inc.

NDTA INSTRUCTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD

In conjunction with the senior logistics chief from each of the Services, the NDTA Instructor of the Year Awards honors instructors from the service transportation schools. Criteria for the award selection are established by the military services and include such measures as the individual’s technical knowledge, teaching skills, self-development, and general leadership abilities.

ARMY

SFC Curtis M. Harrod, USA

Primary Instructor, US Army Transportation School’s Marine Engineer Warrant Officer Advanced Course Fort Eustis, Virginia

NAVY

Mr. Matthew O’Brien

Navy Supply Corps School Newport, Rhode Island

This award is presented annually to corporate members that have provided outstanding service in support of NDTA’s goals and programs at the local and national levels.

AAT Carriers

Accenture Federal Services

Agility Defense & Government Services

Air Charter Service

Air Transport Services Group (ATSG)

AIT Worldwide Logistics, Inc.

American President Lines, LLC

American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier

Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings

Bennett Family of Companies

BNSF Railway

C5MI

Carlile Transportation Systems, LLC

CGI Federal

Chapman Freeborn International Ltd.

Crowley Deloitte

Delta Air Lines

DHL Express

Drury Hotels Company, LLC

Enterprise Mobility

Ernst & Young FedEx

Freeman Holdings Group

Global Logistics Providers

Groundswell

Hapag-Lloyd USA, LLC

HomeSafe Alliance

ICAT Logistics

International Auto Logistics, LLC

Kalitta Air, LLC

Landstar System, Inc.

Liberty Global Logistics LLC

Maersk Line, Limited

Matson

National Air Cargo, Inc.

Omni Air International, LLC

Patriot Maritime

Port of Beaumont

Port of San Diego

Radiant Global Logistics

SAP

Schuyler Line Navigation Company LLC

Sealift, Inc.

Southwest Airlines®

The Pasha Group

The Port of Virginia

TOTE Group

Trailer Bridge

Transportation Institute

Tri-State Motor Transit Co.

U.S. Bank

United Airlines

US Ocean, LLC

Waterman Logistics

World Fuel

WHERE HEROES SHOP WHERE HERoeS SHOP

All honorably discharged Veterans can shop tax free at shopmyexchange.com. In addition, the Department of Defense expanded in-store military exchange and commissary shopping privileges as well as MWR resale facility use to all Veterans with service-connected disabilities.

2024 NDTA MILITARY UNIT OF THE YEAR AWARDS

Since 1966, NDTA has honored units of the military services that have performed outstanding service in transportation or a related field. These units are selected for this recognition for each of the services.

ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

1859th Light Medium Transportation Company Reno, NV

Army

ARMY ACTIVE COMPONENT

51st Composite Truck Company (Heavy) Grafenwuher, Germany

The only forward-stationed Composite Truck Company (Heavy) in Europe, 51st Composite Truck Company (Heavy) (51st CTC(H)) is a highly trained and disciplined unit with a long history of providing exceptional service to 21st Theater Sustainment Command (21st TSC) in support of United States Army EuropeAfrica (USAREUR-AF), NATO, and USEUCOM. During 2023, 51st CTC(H) transportation capabilities enabled the 16th Sustainment Brigade to achieve the 21st TSC CG’s strategic intent of executing theater opening, theater distribution and theater sustainment to support US European Command and NATO operations. The 51st CTC(H) is the only company to simultaneously achieve strategic, operational, and tactical success for steadystate operations, training exercises, contingency missions, and crisis action.

The Steel Knights have played a key role in supporting NATO’s efforts to deter Russian aggression. They have transported troops and equipment throughout Europe and provided transportation support to exercises and operations throughout theater. The Steel Knights, a 266 soldier-strong unit composed of an Enhanced-Heavy Equipment Transporter (E-HET) Truck Platoon, two Palletized Loading System (PLS) Truck Platoons, a Medium Tactical Vehicle (MTV) Truck Platoon, an Operations Section, a Headquarters Section, and a Maintenance Section, is committed to NATO’s defense and always poised to respond to any call across Europe.

The 51st CTC(H) has played a pivotal role in enabling readiness for all warfighters across the European Command and is the only company in Europe capable of transporting the theater’s combat power of M1 Abrams or M2 Bradleys anywhere. Their steadfast commitment to excellence makes them an indispensable asset to USAEURAF, ensuring combat power remains unhindered and at the highest level of readiness.

The 1859th Light Medium Transportation Company, Army National Guard, achieved a remarkable level of excellence in the 2023 training year. The unit achieved 10 promotions ranging from SGT to SFC and earned 246 individual awards, including achievement awards, and awards from other states. Upon the successful completion of the unit’s time at CAIN, the 176 CSSB CDR recognized the exceptional performance and unwavering commitment of the unit’s soldiers and awarded 25 soldiers the Tennessee National Guard Commendation Ribbon. Among the distinguished members of the 1859th Transportation Company, SFC Lawsons was honored with the US Army Transportation Corps NCO of the Year award.

The 1859th displayed their professionalism, adaptability, and commitment to excellence, accomplishing every task assigned and providing key mission support for the movement of bulk cargo, containers, and personnel. The 1859th conducted an extensive Annual Training (AT) preparation leading to a successful AT at CAIN. From January to March, the unit conducted drivers training to ensure enough soldiers completed drivers training and obtained the required licenses to provide mission support during AT.

The coordination and movement of 25 trucks, one wrecker, 10 trailers, and 136 personnel to and from CAIN demonstrated the unit’s logistical prowess. The unit undertook missions and convoys, accomplished all the required planning and preparation, and executed the tasking successfully, highlighting the unit’s ability to adapt and effectively complete the mission. Lastly, in the fourth quarter, the unit organized a truck rodeo which further demonstrated their skills and expertise in operating vehicles. The 1859th Transportation Company’s success at AT positively impacted other units involved, including the 176th CSSB, 555 Triple Nickle, 776th BEB, and the 213th Transportation Company.

ARMY RESERVES COMPONENT

823rd Movement Control Team

Missoula, MT

The 823rd Transportation Detachment, Movement Control Team (MCT) is a reserve unit from Missoula, MT. The MCT pulled together organic and non-organic soldiers to form a team capable of providing movement control in support of Operation Inherent Resolve’s Logistics Task Force North and South. Arriving in theater in September 2023, the MCT hit the ground running and quickly became an expert movement specialist.

The 823rd MCT was divided among several bases in Iraq: Erbil Airbase, Al Asad Airbase, Baghdad Diplomatic Support Center, and Union III. Each outstation had to meet unique requirements to adapt and improvise to ensure the mission was accomplished. The Baghdad Movement Cell at Union served as the frontline managers of the Heavy Lift 9 contract in Iraq and the point of contact between the vendor and the Movement Control Battalion (MCB). This movement cell processes Transportation Movement Requests (TMR) requests from the MCB along with direct coordination with the vendor, the customer, and the origin and destination MCTs. Altogether, the BMC has processed over 100 TMR requests.

The BMCT at the Erbil Airbase ran the Syrian Logistic Cell Central Receiving and Shipping Point (CRSP) yard for all cargo entering and leaving the area. They also support LTF-North of OIR by approving TMR requests and manifesting all cargo into Syria through the Syrian Line Haul. To date, the BMCT in EAB has approved 686 TMR requests; created manifests for 34 convoys; supported the loading of 1,883 pieces of cargo into Syria, and the return of 633 pieces of retrograde cargo for The Al Asad Airbase (AAAB) BMCT oversaw all ground movements on and off base, processing base access requests, handling TMRs and RFIs, working in-bound cargo, providing surveillance, and acting as a liaison for any cargo moving in and out of Iraq.

The Baghdad Diplomatic Support Center (BDSC) BMCT managed all movement control for the Baghdad AO and coordinated with the Department of State to get contracted drivers vetted and approved

for access to process cargo. The MCT processed movement requests and made priority movements through the SDDC. Six uploads/downloads were completed and a 40 TMR backlog was processed and moved. The BDSC BMCT processed 34 air movement requests and worked to coordinate organic pax movement to and from Union III and BDSC.

Navy

USN ACTIVE COMPONENT

Navy Cargo Handling Battalion One (NCHB-1) Williamsburg, VA

Kicking off 2023, Navy Cargo Handling Battalion ONE (NCHB-1) led Operation Deep Freeze, where Sailors offloaded 1,500 shipping containers from the Military Sealift Command (MSC) chartered cargo ship MV Ocean Giant and MV Ocean Gladiator at McMurdo Station. During the second quarter of 2023, Large Scale Exercise 23 was tasked to NCHB-1, incorporating mission sets that included the Expeditionary Reload Team (ERT) and Expeditionary Refuel Team (EFAT). Refining their ability, ERT assisted the crews of the USS PORTER (DDG 78) and MSC’s dry cargo ammunition ship USNS William McLean (T-AKE 12) in performing a MK 41 Vertical Launch System. EFAT integrated with Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 and conducted expeditionary fueling capabilities to multiple US Navy aircraft at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina.

NCHB-1 is the Navy’s 9-1-1 logistics task force, providing rapid-response, forward-deployable logistics support teams to conduct ream, refuel, and resupply operations for all six Geographic Combatant Commanders. NCHB-1 has conducted expeditionary logistics operations on all seven continents and deployed 904 personnel to provide 31,944 man-days in support of Navy and joint operations, missions, and exercises.

The Officers and crew of NCHB-1 have distinguished themselves among all units performing worldwide combat service support roles and have done what no other active-duty Navy command can do. NCHB-1 is a stand-out command and most deserving of the NDTA Military Unit of the Year Award for 2023.

Marine

Corps

USMC ACTIVE COMPONENT

Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron

Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Japan

Through unparalleled mission accomplishment and commitment to Marine Corps Installations Pacific (MCIPAC), III Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF) and United States and allied partners throughout 2023, the Marines, Sailors, and civilians of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (“MAGIC”), Marine Corps Air Station Futenma set the standard for Operation Support Airlift (OSA) squadrons in the Marine Corps and as one of the foremost operational aviation transportation providers.

Operating two UC-35D (Cessna Citation Encore) and two UD-12W+ (Beechcraft King Air 350) from the Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, a small cadre of naval aviators, air operations specialists, and civilian contract maintainers focused their efforts on exceptional mission accomplishment. In all, “MAGIC” conducted 1,218 operational sorties, flying 2,948.6 mishap-free flight hours to seven countries, carrying 1,170 passengers and 54,590 pounds of cargo over an estimated 500,000 nautical miles in support of numerous multilateral exercises.

Throughout the course of 12 months, “MAGIC” supported multiple large-scale multilateral exercises, including Resolute Dragon in Mainland Japan; Cobra Gold in Thailand, Balikatan in the Republic of the Philippines; two iterations of Freedom Shield in the Republic of Korea; and numerous unit-level training (ULT) events across the INDOPACOM AOR. “MAGIC” also supported smaller exercises, including Marine Assault Support Activity (MASA) in the Philippines and Korean Marine Exchange Program (KMEP) in the Republic of Korea.

During 2023, “MAGIC” excelled in its primary mission, provided a service to the warfighter, and lived up to its motto “Servire Exitamus” (We Exist to Serve). For its many accomplishments, and individual contributions of its personnel, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Futenma is worthy of the NDTA Military Unit of the Year Award.

Air Force

USAF ACTIVE COMPONENT

55th

Aerial Port

Travis AFB, CA

Squadron

The 55th Aerial Port Squadron (APS) supports the mission of Travis Air Force Base, located near Fairfield, CA. The unit has 130 members, and all but two are Traditional Reservists. These Citizen Airmen travel every month from Nevada, Washington, Wyoming, Hawaii, Idaho, Colorado, North Dakota, Kansas, Texas and California to train in the art of Aerial Port Operations. During the drill weekends, they augment the activities of the activeduty squadron, the 60th APS, in areas including Ramp, Cargo, Passenger Handling, Loading Planning, and Air Terminal Operations. This partnership epitomizes the spirit of “Team Travis,” enabling the base to “Rapidly Project American Power Anytime…Anywhere!”

In 2023, the unit was tasked to support several deployments in CENTCOM and SOUTHCOM. The 55th APS filled all taskings, sending 33 Airmen out the door for six-month periods to support global mobility missions. During their deployments, the members of the 55th APS improved supply chain processing times for the CENTCOM blood distribution hub by 200 percent, partnered with the US Navy to generate an air bridge for the MH-53E helicopter, and aided in the air transportation of four tons of munitions to support Freedom of Navigation operations for the US Navy. In SOUTHCOM, they drove the processing and storage of over 428,000 pounds of humanitarian cargo, managed over 1,296 inter-modal cargo movements, and participated in nine Joint Task Force Bravo operations with seven partner nations.

The 55th APS also increased its task proficiency through a robust annual training program with 58 members of the squadron embedding themselves with active-duty units for two-week periods where they practiced argo and passenger processing operations. They joined units at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, Norfolk, VA, and Little Rock, AR, to complete training requirements and provide mission support. In total, the Airmen worked 253 aircraft missions moving 8,124 passengers and 2,571 short tons of cargo.

YEARS

In 1966, NDTA honored the following four combat transportation units actively serving in the Vietnam War with awards for outstanding service:

• Army – 1099th Transportation Company (Medium Boat)

• Navy – Naval Support Activity, Danang

• Air Force – 8th Aerial Port Squadron

• Marine Corps – Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR-152)

Since 1966, NDTA has presented over 400 Military Unit of the Year Awards.

AIR NATIONAL GUARD

124th Logistics Readiness Squadron Boise, ID

The 124th Logistics Readiness Squadron met many challenges in 2023, including a late-night request from the Boise Airport to evacuate a plane that was stuck. Within 30 minutes, they developed and executed a transportation plan, assisting in the evacuation of 168 passengers.

Next, the unit transferred 83 tons of cargo and 132 personnel to Germany to support the German Air Defender Exercise— the largest Air National Guard and NATO exercise in history. They also ensured the transfer of 549 time-critical assets in under four hours, besting the Air Force’s 24-hour goal and achieving an annual Pick Pack Ship rating of 98 percent, beating 86 of the 87 other Air National Guard units.

The unit coordinated operations to support the medical Innovation Readiness Training mission, solidifying the medical care for 1,200 Native Americans on two reservations. They also worked with the Utah Air National Guard and commercial agencies to expedite one airport rescue and firefighting vehicle from Utah to Gowen Field, Boise, in under three days. Their actions prevented degraded operations at the Boise Airport by

ensuring FAA fire safety standards were met, safeguarding 423,000 passengers and 5,400 flights from cancellation or delays.

The squadron spearheaded the Gowen Thunder Airshow transportation plan, utilizing both commercial and military resources. They certified 45 military members as bus drivers, conducting 240 hours of training over five weeks. In total, 150 buses and drivers were locally sourced or secured, allowing for the safe transfer of 150,000 visitors over a two-day period.

AIR FORCE ACTIVE DUTY

773d Logistics Readiness Squadron

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, AK

The 773d Logistics Readiness Squadron is comprised of 249 logistics professionals and supports over 35,000 joint service personnel spanning three US military services at one of America’s premier strategic power projection locations. During mission stoppage at Eielson AFB, they assembled a six-person team to prepare, process, and expedite two 8,000-lb. snow broom heavy machinery attachments within three hours, which restored airfield operability in under 24 hours for three squadrons and 70 aircraft that encompass Pacific Air Forces’ (PACAF) sole F-35 capability.

They cross-talked with supply counterparts to test mobile work centers, streamlined receipt timelines by 45 percent, and recouped 327 work hours annually. They also designed, developed, and prototyped a heavy platform sled attachment that benchmarked an alternate air drop recovery effort in the arctic and cut recovery time by 30 percent, facilitating 400 aircrew training hours, and earning PACAF’s 2023 Department of Defense Packaging Innovation Excellence Award. In response to a perceived adversarial threat, they assembled a three-member team to process and rush the movement of eight missiles within four hours of notification. Their actions enabled the shoot-down of two People’s Republic of China spy balloons over US territory.

The squadron enabled the Army’s movement into the interior for the largest Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center exercise in Alaskan history, coordinating with USTRANSCOM, to secure road clearance and permit waivers for 1,051 vehicles while simultaneously loading 16 aircraft with 115 pieces of cargo. They also moved 54,000

field meals and booked 110 buses for 6,700 soldiers in 10 days enabling jump certifications for 8,000 “Arctic Angels” and fortified the DOD’s Arctic Strategy priority for homeland defense, earning them the 673d Air Base Wing’s 2023 Team of the Quarter.

COAST GUARD

USCG SECTOR CORPUS CHRISTI

Corpus Christi, TX

US Coast Guard Sector Corpus Christi, together with the Corpus Christi Port Readiness Committee, provided exceptional service to the Department of Defense (DOD) and national defense transportation operations, spearheading the vast coordination and readiness efforts to meet a surge in military outload operations within the Port of Corpus Christi, the world’s third largest export port for crude oil.

Sector Corpus Christi and the Corpus Christi Port Readiness Committee organized efficient multi-agency operations consisting of the US Transportation Command, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, US Army 842nd Transportation Battalion, US Maritime Administration, Transportation Security Administration, US Army Corps of Engineers, Port of Corpus Christi, Port Police, City of Corpus Christi Police, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and Texas Department of Public Safety.

The Corpus Christi Port Readiness Committee developed Incident Action Plans (IAPs) using the Incident Command System to organize and assign multiagency assets. Sector Corpus Christi and its partners executed maritime safety and security measures that included vessel escorts, maritime traffic vetting, facility security sweeps, and harbor security patrols.

These military outloads supported Operation Atlantic Resolve’s mission to reassure European allies considering Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. As a result, Sector Corpus Christi and its partners conducted 13 military outloads with over 6,800 pieces of critical military cargo and equipment, supporting overseas military operations and its combatant commanders, including our allies, the British Army 3UK Division.

Sector Corpus Christi and the Corpus Christi Port Readiness Committee’s exceptional service and ability to work collaboratively have made them deserving of the 2023 NDTA Award. DTJ

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE

AAR

AAT Carriers, a Covenant Logistics Company

Accenture Federal Services

Agility Defense & Government Services

Air One Aviation

Air Transport Services Group (ATSG)

AIT Worldwide Logistics, Inc.

Alamo City Engineering Services Inc.

Amazon

American President Lines, LLC

American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier

Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings

Bennett Family of Companies

C5MI

Carlile Transportation Systems, LLC

Chapman Freeborn International Ltd.

Corporate Travel Management (CTM)

Crowley

Deloitte

DHL Express

Enterprise Mobility

Fairwater Holdings Inc.

Federated Maritime, LLC

FedEx

Freeman Holdings Group

Hapag-Lloyd USA, LLC

AEG Fuels

HomeSafe Alliance

International Auto Logistics, LLC

JET Infrastructure

Kalitta Air, LLC

Landstar System, Inc.

Leidos

Liberty Global Logistics LLC

Maersk Line, Limited

Matson

Naniq Government Services, LLC

National Air Cargo, Inc.

Omni Air International, LLC

Patriot Maritime

SAP

Schuyler Line Navigation Company LLC

Sealift, Inc.

Sixt Rent a Car LLC

Southwest Airlines

The Pasha Group

TOTE Group

Tri-State Motor Transit Co.

United Airlines

US Marine Management

US Ocean, LLC

Waterman Logistics

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE

Air Charter Service

American Maritime Partnership

Amerijet International, Inc.

Berry Aviation, Inc.

BNSF Railway

Boeing Company

Bristol Associates

Choice Hotels International

CSX Transportation

CWTSatoTravel

Echo Global Logistics

Global Logistics Providers

ICAT Logistics

KGL

LMJ International Logistics, LLC

National Air Carrier Association

Norfolk Southern Corporation

Ocean Shipholdings, Inc.

PayCargo LLC

SAP Concur Sikich

The Port of Virginia

Transportation Institute

U.S. Bank

Union Pacific Railroad

Western Global Airlines

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc.

HONOR ROLL OF SUSTAINING MEMBERS AND REGIONAL PATRONS

SUSTAINING MEMBERS

3Sixty

Able Freight

Admiral Merchants Motor Freight, Inc.

ALARA Logistics

All Aboard America Holdings

American Bureau of Shipping

American Maritime Officers

American Trucking Associations

Apex Logistics International Inc.

ArcBest

Army & Air Force Exchange Service

Arven Services, LLC

ATS Secure

Avis Budget Group

Baggett Transportation Company

Beltway Transportation Service

Benchmarking Partners, Inc.

Boyle Transportation

Bridgeway Connects, Inc.

BTX Global Logistics

BWH Hotels

C5T Corporation

CGI Federal

Coleman Worldwide Moving

Construction Helicopters, Inc. (d/b/a CHI Aviation)

Council for Logistics Research

CPKC

Cypress International, Inc.

D&G Support Services

Dash Point Distributing, LLC

Delta Air Lines

Drury Hotels Company, LLC

Duluth Travel, Inc. (DTI)

EMS Shipping & Trading GmbT

Ernst & Young

Estes Forwarding Worldwide

Everts Air Cargo

Eyre Bus Service, Inc.

Gallantry Global Logistics

GeoDecisions

REGIONAL PATRONS

Amyx

CakeBoxx Technologies, LLC

Cartwright International

Dalko Resources, Inc.

Delaware River Stevedores, Inc.

Enterprise Management Systems

ALL OF THESE FIRMS SUPPORT THE PURPOSES AND OBJECTIVES OF NDTA

Global Secure Shipping

GMT Resources LLC

Green Valley Transportation Corp.

Groundswell

Hilton Worldwide

Holland & Knight

Hyatt Hotels

IHG Army Hotels

Intermodal Association of North America (IANA)

International Association of Movers

International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA)

Interstate Moving | Relocation | Logistics

Isaac Instruments

J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc.

Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT)

Juvare Federal & Defense

Keystone Shipping Co.

LMI

Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association

Mayflower Transit

McCollister’s Global Services, Inc.

Mercer Transportation Company

mLINQS

National Industries for the Blind (NIB)

National Van Lines, Inc.

Nika Corporate Housing

Northern Air Cargo, LLC

Omega World Travel

One Network Enterprises, Inc.

ORBCOMM

Paxton Van Lines

Perfect Logistics, LLC

Pilot Freight Services, a Maersk Company

Plateau GRP

PODS Enterprises LLC

Port of Beaumont

Port of San Diego

Preferred Corporate Housing

Prestera Trucking, Inc.

Priority Worldwide

Prosponsive Logistics

PTS Worldwide

Gridiron Forwarding Co., Inc.

HLI Government Services

JAS Forwarding

John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences

Lineage Lynden, Inc.

Move One

Radiant Global Logistics

Red Roof Inn

ReloQuest

Sabre

SAIC

Savi

SeaCube Containers

Seafarers International Union of NA, AGLIW

Sealink International Inc.

SEKO Government, Space and Defense

Selsi International Inc

Signature Transportation Group

Sonesta International Hotels Corporation

SSA Marine

St. Louis Union Station Hotel a Curio Hotel

Collection by Hilton

StarForce National Corporation

Steam Logistics, LLC

Stevens Global Logistics, Inc.

Taft Law

The Hertz Corporation

The MITRE Corporation

The Suddath Companies

Thinklogical

TMM, Inc.

Toll Group

Trailer Bridge

Transportation Intermediaries Assn. (TIA)

Travelport

Triton Container

TTX Company

Tucker Company Worldwide, Inc.

Uber for Business

UNCOMN

United Van Lines, Inc.

US1 Logistics

Wertz Motor Coaches

Women In Trucking Association, Inc.

WorldFuel

XLG Transportation Inc.

Xwing

NorSea Denmark A/S

North Carolina State Ports Authority

Overdrive Logistics, Inc.

PITT OHIO

Port Canaveral

Port of Port Arthur

Prime Trip Support

Trans Global Logistics Europe GmbH

Newport University

Honored to Serve Our Military

The Pasha Group offers versatile roll-on/roll-off and container shipping services to deliver cargo needs with specialized service you can trust.

Pasha is dedicated to supporting military unit movements with professional terminal stevedoring, flexible vessel schedules, and a focus on customer service.

Reliable, Sustainable, and Safe!

1 U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Cybersecurity Framework Implementation guidance; 2020 [cited 2024 Aug 18]. Available from: https://www.cisa.gov/sites/default/files/ publications/Nuclear_Sector_Cybersecurity_ Framework_Implementation_Guidance_ FINAL_508.pdf

2 U.S. Department of Energy. Connolly KJ, Pope RB; 2016 [cited 2024 Aug 18]. Available from: https:// www.energy.gov/ne/articles/historical-review-safetransport-spent-nuclear-fuel

3 Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Frequently asked questions and answers: Spent nuclear fuel transportation; 2023 [cited 2024 Aug 17]. Available from: https://www.nrc.gov/waste/spentfuel-transp-faq.html

4 Office of Nuclear Energy. New railcar designed to transport spent nuclear fuel cleared for operation | Department of Energy; 2024 [cited 2024 Aug 18]. Available from: https://www.energy.gov/ne/articles/ new-railcar-designed-transport-spent-nuclearfuel-cleared-operation

5 NUCLEAR ENERGY INSTITUTE (NEI). Safe, secure transportation of used nuclear fuel [Internet]. 2019 [cited 2024 Apr 15]. Available from: https:// www.nei.org/resources/fact-sheets/safe-secure-

Additional Sources

National Nuclear Security Administration (2020) https://www.energy.gov/nnsa/office-securetransportation

National Institute of Standards and Technology (2024): https://www.nist.gov/cybersecurity

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: https:// www.epa.gov/radtown/transportation-radioactivematerial

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) (2024): https:// www.energy.gov/em/packaging-and-transportation

U.S. Government Accountability Office (2017): https://www.gao.gov/nuclear-waste-disposal

U.S. Department of Transportation (2008): https://www.transportation.gov/testimony/ dot%E2%80%99s-role-safe-and-securetransportation-spent-nuclear-fuel-snf-and-highlevel

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission: https://www. nrc.gov/waste/spent-fuel-transp.html

Weitoish, T. & Burrell, D. N. (2024). Nuclear Power Organizations as Learning Organizations Around Cybersecurity, Public Health, Public Safety, and Critical Infrastructure Protection. In E. Lewis (Ed.), Evolution of Cross-Sector Cyber Intelligent Markets (pp. 333-355). IGI Global. https://doi. org/10.4018/979-8-3693-1970-3.ch018

We celebrate those who always strive: to rise higher, push through every boundary, and overcome every obstacle