The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and the broader military community are mourning the loss of Retired United States Army Col. Perry L. Knight, a distinguished leader whose dedication, service, and leadership left a lasting impact on colleagues, soldiers, and the missions he supported.

Knight, who most recently served as DLA Distribution’s sixth deputy commander and a member of the Senior Executive Service, passed away unexpectedly. His passing is a profound loss to both the defense and logistics communities he served with unwavering commitment.

A native of Buena Vista, Virginia, Perry Knight’s remarkable military journey began upon his graduation from the Virginia Military Institute in 1982, where he was commissioned as a second lieutenant. He earned a bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in economics and later pursued advanced studies, achieving a master’s degree in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

His academic and military training, including the Officer Basic and Advanced Courses and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, laid the foundation for a career defined by leadership, expertise, and service.

Knight’s military assignments were extensive and prestigious, reflecting both his skill and dedication. He served at the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Pentagon, and held leadership roles including Director of Logistics Operations at U.S. Forces Command in Fort McPherson, Georgia.

His command experience spanned Germany, Georgia, and multiple deployments, including Iraq and the Netherlands. Within the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas, he held numerous positions, from division logistics officer to Aviation Brigade Operations Officer, consistently demonstrating strategic insight and operational excellence.

Throughout his career, Knight earned a wide array of military honors, reflecting both his skill and commitment. His personal awards included the Defense Superior Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medals, and multiple commendations for joint service.

His decorations extended to operational campaigns, including the Southwest Asia Service Medal, Kuwaiti Liberation Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Support Medal. He was also authorized to wear the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Department of the Army Identification Badges, symbols of his service at the highest levels of military command.

Knight’s impact extended beyond uniformed service into his civilian career, where he continued to guide, mentor, and inspire. Since joining DLA in 2006 as chief of staff, he became known for his leadership, strategic vision, and dedication to mission excellence.

He earned accolades including the Secretary of Defense Medal for Meritorious Civilian Service, DLA Outstanding Leader of the Year, and DLA Superior Civilian Service Award, reflecting his commitment to advancing logistics and supporting the warfighter community.

Colleagues remember Perry Knight not only for his professional accomplishments but for his personal qualities. Brig. Gen. Keith Reventlow, commanding general for DLA Distribution, said: “Perry’s commitment to this organization, our workforce, our mission and our warfighter is evident in all that he does and who he is as a former Army officer, senior leader, and human being. His depth of knowledge, career experience, stellar leadership—and let’s be honest—his upbeat sense of humor, keeps our organization moving forward.”

Knight’s legacy is one of excellence, integrity, and mentorship. His leadership shaped countless careers, improved operations across the Department of Defense, and left an enduring mark on those fortunate to work alongside him. His dedication to service, both in uniform and as a civilian, serves as a lasting example of what it means to commit fully to one’s country, mission, and colleagues.

While his passing is a tragedy, the memory of Perry L. Knight—a soldier, leader, mentor, and friend—will endure in the lives he touched, the missions he guided, and the legacy of service and excellence he leaves behind.

Rest in peace, Col. Perry L. Knight—your service, dedication, and leadership will not be forgotten.