Generals warn of ‘vintage’ depots and WWII-era logistics techniques

WASHINGTON ― Two generals with the U.S. Army and Marine Corps have warned Congress of an impending wave of retirements that would leave the service without qualified workers at supply depots.

Generals described to Congress on June 28 two key challenges they face in modernizing supply depots: an aging workforce of trained specialists and a vast difference in techniques between some facilities.

Army Lt. Gen. Aundre Piggee told the House Armed Service Committee that “50 percent of our workforce is over the age of 50” at depots and it would take the service up to 10 years to properly train new employees.

Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Joseph Shrader, head of Marine Corps Logistics Command, noted that “recruitment of workforce” is a top priority for readiness at depots and advocated for science, technology, engineering and mathematics education for American students.

Both generals, who work logistics for their respective service, praised the most recent National Defense Authorization Act for granting authority to the services to expedite personnel hiring, asking Congress to make the provision permanent.

Piggee also noted his concern over the need for modernization. The officer said that World War II-era techniques were still being used in some armament production, citing the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in Missouri as an example of a “vintage” depot.

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There are, however, depots, that boast cutting-edge technology. Shrader highlighted the use of 3-D printing to produce parts and tools for depots, as well as advanced computing programs that help manage the scheduling of repairs.

While speaking to lawmakers, the two military leaders also expressed concerns over Congress’ use of continuing budget resolutions. “Consistency” is key in the relationship between military and industry, said Shrader, adding that budget drama has negative “ripple effects” on the military’s readiness and cooperation with industry.

Regardless, Piggee struck an optimistic tone on modernization and said his department, the Army’s G-4, is “ready to take advantage of the help already provided” by Congress to improve depots.

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