DISA and JFHQ-DODIN Recognize Troops at Armed Forces Day Celebration

Current and former military members assigned to the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) and Joint Force Headquarters for Department of Defense Information Networks (JFHQ-DODIN) came together at their shared headquarters on Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, to celebrate Armed Forces Day on May 20.

The official holiday is the third Saturday in May; this year it is May 21.

“This all started in 1949,” said Army LTG Alan R. Lynn, director of DISA and commander of JFHQ-DODIN, referencing President Harry S. Truman’s effort to establish a single holiday for citizens to come together and thank our military members for their patriotic service in support of our country.

“Armed Forces day is an opportunity to bring all of the services together and for everybody to recognize that you all make a difference and really make us free,” said Lynn.

The general was joined by a soldier, sailor, airman, and Marine to cut a ceremonial cake, which was then served to all military members in attendance as a token of thanks for their service to our nation.

“[As a member of the military] you know what you do every day, but civilians don’t always know what you do or what you go through,” said Navy PO1 Phillip Levy, a legislative affairs specialist. “It’s nice to be recognized.”

Air Force Lt Col Charmaine Martin, who manages participation in military exercises, agreed.

“I’m proud to be in the military and honored that we’re celebrating this day,” she said. “Especially for our wounded warriors and all those who have given their lives for our country.”

Published May 20, 2016