Anniston Army Depot

Commander's Column

by Col. Eric A. McCoy

Readiness:

Anniston Army Depot continues to lead efforts for providing material readiness to our U.S. Armed Forces and American allies. From combat vehicles to howitzers and small arms we continue to exceed projections for planned work and revenue. While our performance metrics in these areas are green, they are not as “green” as they should be. With the number of direct personnel we have on board and the number of hours available during the month, we should have charged at least another 65,000 hours, which would have generated significant additional revenue. Continue to plan absences accordingly so that we can produce readiness on time, at cost, and of high quality to our joint and allied warfighters.

Defense Organizational Climate Survey (DEOCS):

Our annual command climate survey launched last week and will run until March 20. This survey provides depot management, along with Army leaders, critical feedback on the health, morale, and welfare of our greatest asset: the Anniston workforce. Although the DEOCS is voluntary, and leadership will not know who has or has not taken it, your participation is strongly encouraged. Refer to your official email or contact our EEO office at ext. 6201 for assistance.

Black History Month:

Appreciate the members of Team ANAD who came out to celebrate at our depot Black History Month observance on February 23. The Honorable Timothy Ragland, Mayor of Talladega, served as our guest speaker and spoke to the audience about the significance of Black Americans inspiring change across our nation. The purpose of Black History Month is to make all Americans aware of the struggle for freedom and equal opportunity, and to celebrate the many achievements of Black Americans in every field. It gives the Army an opportunity to reflect on the contributions of Black Americans to the history of our nation and recognize and honor the service and sacrifice of Black Soldiers and civilians. Black Soldiers and civilians have served with honor, dedication and distinction, and their legacy of courage and selfless service will inspire generations to come. Black Americans have made our Army strong and continue to do so today.

Women's History Month:

Women’s History Month honors and celebrates the struggles and achievements of American women throughout the history of the United States. The national 2023 Women’s History Month theme is “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.” Through this theme, we can revisit the stories of the women who have made our Army stronger serving as Soldiers, Army Civilians, Veterans, and family members who are critical members of our Army team. Women’s History Month is a reminder of the strength the Army has gained, and will gain, through having a high-quality and diverse all-volunteer force. Army diversity is about knowing our people, understanding the value individuals bring, and optimizing what they offer to build high performing and cohesive teams. As the Army shapes the future force, Anniston Army Depot will continue to ensure that every individual can maximize their potential. Be on the lookout for programming sponsored by our Equal Employment Opportunity Office throughout the month.

National Vietnam War Veterans Day:

March 29 is National Vietnam War Veterans Day, when we thank and honor our Vietnam veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the nation, with distinct recognition of former prisoners of war and families of those still listed as missing in action. On National Vietnam War Veterans Day, the Army honors all United States veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces from November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975, regardless of location. The 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War is being recognized nationwide from May 28, 2012 through November 11, 2025 as part of the United States Vietnam War Commemoration. This year marks the sixth anniversary of the Vietnam War Veterans Day. March 29 is the anniversary of the withdrawal of combat and combat support units from South Vietnam in 1973. Join me in thanking and honoring our Vietnam veterans and their families on behalf of the nation, with distinct recognition of former prisoners of war and families of those still listed as missing in action.

ANAD Quarterly Town Hall:

Our next townhall is scheduled for Wednesday, April 5 from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. In addition to recognizing workforce excellence, updates will be provided on workload, workforce development initiatives, and upcoming activities followed by a question & answer session with myself and depot leadership.

Thanks for what you continue to do every day with your intentions and actions to support our nation. Proud to serve alongside you.