The Official Newsletter of The National Defense Transportation Association

May 25, 2023

A Message from NDTA President & CEO VADM (Ret.) William A. Brown:

A hearty “Bravo Zulu” to everyone who attended last week’s Surface Force Projection Conference at Christopher Newport University. Thanks to CNU’s Center for American Studies, MARAD, SDDC and our Sponsors and Exhibitors. Projecting forces through our strategic ports was at the forefront of our discussions. This is a complex, multi-modal capability requiring planning (time), investment and exercise.

“Force does not exist for mobility, but mobility for force.” Rear Admiral Alfred Thayer Mahan, 1899

Our Nation’s ability to project forces from the homeland depends on our ability to build upon our discussions at the 2023 Surface Force Projection Conference!

Southwest Wants to Be the Most Military-Friendly Airline

By Sharon Lo Managing Editor, Defense Transportation Journal and The Source

Over the past three-plus years, Southwest Airlines has focused its time and resources on enhancing the travel experience for US Military service men and women. Since 2020, the airline has integrated Amadeus, Travelport, and Sabre travel distribution platforms. According to Chief Sales Officer, Dave Harvey, this was a huge win for reducing friction for both travelers and Southwest employees. […READ MORE…]

Five Bills to Support the Trucking Industry Advance

Five bills that will support the trucking industry and strengthen the supply chain have been approved by the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee—a move applauded by industry proponents such as the American Trucking Associations.[…READ MORE…]

Puget Sound Chapter Hosts Summer Leadership Academy

The Puget Sound Chapter of NDTA is hosting a Summer Leadership Academy featuring three relevant and engaging keynote speakers and a series of concurrent sessions on a host of topics linked to the overarching theme: Preparedness and Partnership. The event will take place on August 16, 2023, from 7:30am to 4:00pm at the Tacoma Yacht Club. Registration is open and sponsorships are available. […READ MORE…]

Editor’s Picks

Spotlight: Risk of a National Debt Default

• ‘Devastating’ Debt Default Threatens Troop Pay, Defense Programs
• Debt Breach Could Damage Defense Industry, Air Force Official Says
• Here’s What Could Happen to the Military If the US Defaults on Its Debt
• US Cities with Military Bases Rick Economic Damage in Debt Ceiling Fight
• A Default Isn’t a Shutdown, But Agencies Could Treat It That Way

Pentagon Outlines Upcoming Contractor Cybersecurity Plan
(Defense One)  By November, Pentagon cybersecurity leaders aim to lay out just how private contractors will be expected to work with government agencies to safeguard data and ward off attacks.

Cargo Preference Essential Element For Us Merchant Marine, National Security
(Seapower Magazine)  Recently, there have been renewed calls by some to do away with – or greatly diminish – the requirements that govern the sea transportation of cargo that is owned, procured, furnished, or financed by the US Government – better known as Cargo Preference. But a removal of the current 50% requirement would have immediate and devastating effect on the US flag fleet.

DLA Accelerates Move Away From COBOL Warehouse System
(Federal News Network)  For the Defense Logistics Agency, the handwriting was on the wall that it was time to move to a modern warehouse management system. DLA’s Karyn Runstrom, the acting chief information officer, said the agency is inching ever closer to turning off the legacy system.

On National Maritime Day, Leaders Highlight Need for More Mariners
(The Maritime Executive)  On National Maritime Day, America’s maritime leaders take a moment of pause to recognize the critical role that U.S. mariners play in commerce and national defense. In peace and war, American mariners deliver, and they will always remain at the heart of the industry.  

Bennett’s ‘Large Car Campgrounds’ initiative as truck parking salve for specialized owner-operators
(OverDrive)  David Lowry, CEO of Bennett Motor Express, was featured in a recent article in Overdrive magazine. The article focuses on David’s latest initiative for a “Large Car Campground” in Joplin, Missouri, for Bennett owner-operators. With there being many concerns for owner-operators to face at current truck stops, the idea was to create a place for Bennett drivers to be comfortable and make their lives better.

Tips for Reducing Shipping Costs to Alaska: Navigating Challenges and Finding Cost-Effective Solutions
(Carlile)  Shipping goods to Alaska presents a set of unique challenges that require careful consideration and effective strategies to minimize costs. Carlile delves into the challenges of shipping to Alaska and highlights the importance of finding practical strategies to reduce shipping costs while maintaining reliability and quality.

With the Acquisition of the Business of Optimal Design, Deloitte Further Expands Software and Product Engineering Services Portfolio
(Deloitte)  Deloitte announced it has acquired substantially all of the assets of Optimal Design Co., a leading product engineering services (PES) company specializing in the innovation and development of smart connected products and internet of things (IoT) devices. Together, Optimal Design’s multi-disciplinary PES talent and Deloitte’s leading-edge capabilities will help clients unlock innovation and achieve their digital transformation goals.

Three Crowley-Managed Tankers Awarded Roles in Defense Fleet with Stena Bulk
(Crowley)  Three Crowley-managed tankers have been selected by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) to serve in its Tanker Security Program. The program ensures a commercial fleet can readily transport liquid fuel supplies in times of need for the U.S. Department of Defense.

The Source is a free educational publication for NDTA members, conference attendees, and associates.