AUSA - Supporting the DA Civilian Workforce

The Association of the United States Army (AUSA) recognizes the value of our DA Civilian (DAC) workforce. DACs provide essential expertise, continuity, and support to the U.S. Army’s mission, offering specialized knowledge in areas like logistics, engineering, and administration.  DACs complement military personnel, ensuring the Army runs efficiently. They offer institutional stability, bridging gaps as military members rotate through assignments. They enhance cost-effectiveness by managing non-combat functions and contribute significantly to research and development. DACs also support combat operations, working alongside military personnel, making their contributions vital to Army readiness and overall mission success.  

AUSA actively engages with both uniformed soldiers and the DAC workforce through its national office and local chapters, including the Redstone-Huntsville Chapter.

In Washington D.C., AUSA maintains a presence through its national office. Representatives may attend congressional hearings where civilian workforce matters are discussed, providing input as part of the public record. This engagement connects to legislative processes, such as the recent Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which contains several civilian workforce provisions covering professional development, work schedules, and hiring procedures.

At the local level, the Redstone-Huntsville chapter sponsors or supports activities throughout the year, such as the Global Force Symposium, Armed Forces Celebration Week, the Veterans Day Dinner and Parade, and the Army Birthday Celebration Dinner.  Our membership, which includes scores of DA Civilians, is always welcome to attend and enjoy these events.

We are proud to celebrate the exemplary efforts of our DACs. One of the chapter’s key initiatives is the annual DA Civilian of the Year recognition program, honoring outstanding DACs from Redstone Arsenal. The process involves months of nominations and evaluations. This year, 26 nominees were recognized in five categories. Tim Bishop, Director of the Space and Missile Defense Center of Excellence, won the overall Department of the Army Civilian of the Year Award and the Executive Management category. Other winners included Charles Basham (PEO Missiles and Space) in Technical/Technical Management; Joshua Stinson (PEO Missiles and Space) in Professional/Technical; Susan Recella (Space and Missile Defense Command) in Support Staff; and Robert Hannah (Defense Acquisition University) in the Department of Defense category.