The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and the greater military community are grieving the loss of Retired United States Army Colonel Perry L. Knight, whose extraordinary career in service and leadership left an enduring mark on those who had the privilege to work with him. His passing, the result of suicide, has left colleagues, family, and friends deeply saddened, while also highlighting the importance of compassion and support within the armed forces and beyond.
A Career of Distinguished Service
Col. Knight most recently served as DLA Distribution’s sixth deputy commander and a member of the Senior Executive Service, a role in which his leadership, vision, and dedication were felt across the defense logistics network. His death represents a profound loss not only to the DLA community but to the broader military family he served for decades.
A native of Buena Vista, Virginia, Knight’s path of service began after graduating from the Virginia Military Institute in 1982, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in economics. Commissioned as a second lieutenant, he went on to pursue advanced education, including a master’s degree in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. His academic journey was matched by rigorous military training, including the Officer Basic and Advanced Courses and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.
Leadership Across the Globe
Knight’s assignments took him to some of the most influential commands in the military. He served at the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Pentagon, where his expertise in logistics played a vital role in national defense planning. He also served as Director of Logistics Operations at U.S. Forces Command in Fort McPherson, Georgia, overseeing missions of enormous scale and significance.
Throughout his career, Knight commanded units and held leadership roles in Germany, Georgia, Iraq, and the Netherlands, as well as at Fort Riley, Kansas, where he served the 1st Infantry Division in numerous positions. Known for his strategic insight and operational excellence, he consistently earned respect as both a leader and a mentor.
Honors and Decorations
Col. Knight’s service was recognized with numerous awards, including 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 honors also reflected his participation in major operations, including the Southwest Asia Service Medal, Kuwaiti Liberation Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Support Medal.
In addition, he was authorized to wear the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Department of the Army Identification Badges, honors reserved for those who serve at the very highest levels of command.
Civilian Leadership and Mentorship
After retiring from active duty, Knight continued his service as a civilian leader. Since joining the DLA in 2006 as chief of staff, he became a cornerstone of the organization, known for his ability to mentor younger professionals, his commitment to the mission, and his sharp strategic vision. His accolades included the Secretary of Defense Medal for Meritorious Civilian Service, DLA Outstanding Leader of the Year Award, and the DLA Superior Civilian Service Award.
Colleagues remember him as approachable, humorous, and deeply invested in the success of others. Brig. Gen. Keith Reventlow, commanding general for DLA Distribution, reflected:
“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.”
A Legacy of Service and Humanity
Beyond his titles and decorations, Perry Knight’s true legacy lies in the lives he touched. His mentorship shaped countless military and civilian careers, his leadership improved operations across the Department of Defense, and his compassion left a lasting imprint on friends, colleagues, and family alike.
His death is a solemn reminder of the struggles many face privately, even while carrying the weight of responsibility and leadership. In honoring his memory, colleagues and loved ones also emphasize the importance of mental health support and community care for those who serve.
Col. Perry L. Knight’s life was one of service, dedication, and integrity. Though his passing has left a void, his influence will continue to be felt in the missions he strengthened, the people he mentored, and the values he upheld. He will be remembered not only as a decorated soldier and respected leader but as a man whose character inspired trust, loyalty, and admiration.