Fort Polk honors outgoing, incoming DFMWR Directors

Photo By Chuck Cannon | Incoming Directorate of Family Morale, Welfare and Recreation, K. Wayne Bardell, introduces himself at the Director Transition held at Fort Polk's Warrior Center Jan. 31.  

FORT POLK, LOUISIANA, UNITED STATES

02.07.2020

Story by Angie Thorne 

Fort Johnson Public Affairs Office

FORT POLK, La. — A United States Army Garrison Director Transition was held at the Fort Polk Warrior Center Jan. 31. Outgoing Director of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation, Loretta L. Nale, passed the mantle of leadership to incoming director, K. Wayne Bardell.
Nale began her career at Fort Polk as a temporary clerk typist in 1975. She retires from DFMWR after more than 44 years of service.
Col. Ryan K. Roseberry, Fort Polk garrison commander, was guest speaker at the event.
Roseberry said DFMWR’s scope and responsibilities span farther than gyms and activities to include everything from family advocacy, financial readiness and spouse employment to child development centers, youth sports, The Warrior Golf Course, The Anvil, Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers, movie night under the stars, Freedom Fest and more.
“The individuals that run these programs — more than 40 strong — aren’t just bartenders, fitness professionals or financial advisors, they are readiness and resiliency professionals focused on the care and support of our Soldiers and their Families so that we can win our nation’s wars,” he said.
Roseberry said the event highlights the transition between the two directors that have led and will lead Fort Polk’s DFMWR team.
“Loretta Nale has supported, led and defended the programs at Fort Polk.
She is the most humble person I know. She lives to serve others, including our Soldiers and Fort Polk as a whole. She has dedicated her entire life to this installation and is responsible for all the programs, facilities and activities that we benefit from today,” he said.
Roseberry noted while other installations lost their arts and crafts centers, automotive skill centers, golf courses and youth programs, Fort Polk kept theirs. “That’s because Loretta fought for them, even when it was uncomfortable and unpopular,” he said.
Roseberry said even with budget cuts, Fort Polk sustains what it currently provides and improves and transforms where needed.
“Now we are one of three installations targeted for quality of life improvements with $10 million to build programs, facilities and activities that will impact the wellbeing of our Soldiers and Families,” he said.
Roseberry thanked Nale for her leadership, selfless service and life of dedication to the Army, Fort Polk, its Soldiers and Families.
Nale said the transition ceremony wasn’t about her or the past, but about the future of Fort Polk’s quality of life.
“I hope in some way I have made a positive impact, but I’m so excited about what’s to come here thanks to Fort Polk being chosen as one of the three installations for quality of life improvements. This would not have been possible without the strong support of our command team. They understand that quality of life for our Soldiers and Families is the essence of this installation,” she said.
Nale said she worked hard but has been blessed in her career at Fort Polk.
“I put in lots of hours and learned every step of the way,” she said. “It has been a true honor to serve with you and for you.”
Roseberry said Fort Polk’s incoming director is a man that has dedicated his career to MWR and supporting Soldiers across the force.
“Wayne, you have big shoes to fill with a lot of transition and significant investment being placed on your desk to manage. This is an exciting time, but also a busy and challenging time for MWR. I know you are going to do fine and I’m looking forward to the continuous evolution of MWR under your management,” he said.
Bardell said he enjoys what he does and will continue to commit 100% to Fort Polk as he transitions into his new position.
“I’m here day and night for you. I love being around Soldiers and Families, so I’m signing in. I’m ready to get to work,” he said.

• Date Taken: 02.07.2020
• Date Posted: 02.07.2020 13:08
• Story ID: 362167
• Location: FORT POLK, LOUISIANA, US