U.S. Indo-Pacific Command will honor Maj. Gen. Suzanne Vares-Lum’s career and retirement.
Transcript
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen and Aloha for those. Thank you for those of you streaming online, turn up your volume as the ceremony is about to begin in compliance with the state covid restrictions. We ask that you keep your mask on and maintain six ft distance for the duration of the ceremony. In order to preserve the dignity of today’s ceremony, we request that you turn off ringers on all cell phones and mobile devices at this time. Indeed, it is a beautiful day aboard the USs Missouri docked here on Ford Island Joint Base, Pearl Harbor Hickam. I made your love, Williamson and I’ll be your master of ceremonies today on behalf of the Commander, United States indo pacific command. Welcome to the retirement ceremony in honor of Major General Suzanne P. Very slum acknowledging her 34 years of service highlighting a career in all three components, Active Duty Reserves and National Guard in the United States Army. We are honored to celebrate a local girl from Hawaii who was born and raised on the island slopes of Oaxaca, graduated from I. A high school enlisted in the military before commissioning from the University of Hawaii Mana ROTC program. Those who have the privilege to know and be in the presence of general, very solemn, innately feel like a champion. She truly exemplifies the armor of Aloha. A for aca high meaning kindness and gentleness, L for local he meaning unity. Oh for Olu, Olu meaning gentle, H for ha ha meaning humility, A for annoying meaning patients waiting for the moment. Although today marks a day when she will exchange her military uniform for civilian attire, her Aloha will remain the same. In just a moment, the official party will arrive, guests are requested to rise for the arrival to remain standing for the presentation of colors, the national anthem, the whole estate song, Hawaii punishment and the invocation for our uniform service members. This will be a covered event. It is appropriate for civilian attendees to place their hand over their heart and for military personnel to hand salute for the rendering of honors and the playing of the national anthem. It is also appropriate for our Hawaii National Guard members to hold their salute for the playing of hawaii penalty in respect of naval traditions. We will pipe aboard the official party and it is customary to hand salute from the first note of the boston pipe through the ruffles and flourishes. Music. Today’s side boy detail comprised of members of the indo pacific Joint Service Color Guard who represent more than 370,000 Army, Navy Marine and Air Force service members located throughout the indo pacific area of responsibility. Both in bring the side boys to attention. Hi ladies and gentlemen, please stand for the arrival of the official party. Mhm. Major General, United States Army arriving. What happened? Yeah, yeah. Yeah yeah. Yeah. Mhm. Okay. Commander, United States indo pacific command arriving. Yeah. Okay. Mhm Yeah mm boston post the side boys. I will. Right four or parade the colors. Mhm Oh yeah. Oh oh yeah. What time? Oh okay. Uh huh Oh hey. Oh yeah. Okay. Uh huh And yeah yeah you know. Mhm Yeah. Mhm mhm mhm Yeah. Mm Yeah. Yeah. Mm. Remember. Yeah. Oh oh Oh Oh okay. Uh huh. Uh huh. Captain James Edwards, United States indo pacific command chaplain will now give the invocation. Let us pray almighty God we gather this morning to honor Major General virus lamb For the more than 34 years of honorable service given to her country, you have blessed her with a long and meaningful military career. May she remember fondly all those whom she has led, as well as those who guided and mentored her. May she fully recognize the great impact she has made during her career, Knowing that she will be sorely missed those of us who have served with her at Indo pak calm. Well, Miss not only her wisdom, experience and leadership, but also her words of encouragement and positive attitude she shared with all of us. Bless this ceremony and all gathered here as Major General virus slum says farewell to her military service and according to naval tradition, befitting this historic battleship, we would ask the Lord as Major General. Darussalam leaves here today that you would grant her fair winds and following seas. Amen man. Ladies and gentlemen, please be seated. Thank you to the 1/11 army Band and the Pacific Fleet Forces Ban for the prerecorded music. Thank you in the pacific Command Joint Service Color Guard for honoring our National and State colours. Alas, thank you chaplain. Edwards for heartfelt pool or a prayer in Hawaiian. We would like to extend a warm welcome to our distinguished guests and family in attendance today. Governor and mrs E. Gay. Mrs Davidson. General a camera mrs Minehan. Lieutenant General Rudder. Uh, we are Admiral Caylor. Major General Clark. Command, Sergeant, Major shorter. Okay, okay, yeah. Major general. Very slams. Ohana. Lieutenant Colonel, Retired Courtney. Various long daughters. Diana and Connie. Very islam. Yeah, great. We would also like to acknowledge the family and friends streaming from across the world. Who RSVP’d from Australia Korea, japan. The Continental United States, the Middle East are former commander to US indo pacific command and former United States Ambassador to the Republic of Korea. Admiral Retired harry Harris streaming in from the rockies. The honourable lou leon Guerrero Governor of Guam. The honourable ralph Torres governor from the commonwealth of the northern Mariana islands streaming in from oceania just to name a few half a day. Mahalo and a coma. My welcome to the retirement ceremony we are honored. You could join us today today. You will witness a unique combination of Navy and army service traditions with a command and control by an Air Force M. C. Yeah. From the historic battleship in beautiful poor harbor as we bid farewell and following seas to Major General very slum. It is my distinct pleasure to introduce the governor of the state of Hawaii the honourable David E. G. For his welcoming remarks. Mhm. Mhm. Yeah. Aloha. Uh huh. It truly is an honor and privilege to join all of you here today in recognition of Major General Suzanne Barris lungs. 34 years of exemplary military service In testament to the impact that major general various lum has on people. I was delighted to learn that in addition to all of you here today we have more than 300 friends, families and colleagues joining us virtually in this very, very special ceremony. First I want to recognize Major General various alums family, her husband, Courtney, a retired lieutenant colonel and daughters, Diana and Connie as a military family. I do know your sacrifice. Unwavering support and commitment to the well being and success of our military members are crucial to building strength and cohesion in our nation’s armed forces. I want to personally thank you for your role and all of the success in major general. Various lamb thank you. Yeah. Mhm. Today we pay tribute to Major General various lum for her leadership, an absolute commitment to our nation and the state of Hawaii. As some of you may know, Suzy has been a Trailblazer. She made history by becoming the first native Hawaiian woman to reach the rank of general in the US army. She is a watch, a watch girl at heart and a proud public school graduate of a high school go na li currently as major general and mobilization assistant to the commander of the US indo pacific command. Her duties range from engagements with allies and partners in the pacific region to representing the command in bilateral dialogues. Major General various lum is an example of the homegrown talent we have here in Hawaii. She joined the Army Reserve as a private first class in 1986 and was later commissioned as a distinguished military graduate in the Military Intelligence Corpse in 1988. Through the Army ROTC program at the University of Hawaii at Manila. She earned a B. A degree in journalism and a master of education in teaching from the University of Hawaii at Manila. And later she furthered her studies and went on to earn a master in strategic studies degree from the U. S. Army War College in 2011. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her outstanding service and strong work work ethic. Her awards and accolades include the Defense Superior Service Medal, legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal. Iraqi Campaign Medal. Just to name a few. I could go on and on and on if I were to read all of her awards and recognition. But she is also a 2017 recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. One of the nation’s most prestigious awards given to individuals who have shown outstanding commitment to serving our nation. While exemplifying the values and spirit of America. It celebrates our ethnic heritage and is based on the conviction that the diversity of the american people is what makes this nation great. As governor of Hawaii, one of the most diverse states in the nation, I am proud of the national recognition she received as a leader and as an alien pacific islander because her story is an example of what makes this country great. That service to our country comes in all shapes, forms and backgrounds and most importantly, everyone can make a contribution when asked what advice she would give to a young officer who wants to make the military their career. Major General various lum said our next generation of leaders should always seek to educate themselves, brought in their thinking as the more you know, the more you realize what you don’t know, be humble, be open to learn and as you move up, take care of people and always give your best when you are uncertain, seek help and mentorship. These are wise words for not only the young officers who want to make the military their career, but also for all of us. As no matter where we are in our career, be humble, be kind and always seek to learn. That’s how we grow as an individual and as a nation. That kind of advice continues to be even more important today. As we embrace the challenges, that kind of advice presents the opportunity of the current pandemic economic recovery and recent social reckoning. Major General Various lum is motivated by the many people that she has worked with and her fee that we all have a role to make our role more secure and a place for families and the next generation to call home Major General. Various lum is also inspired by historic icon, Our Lady US Senator Daniel Kane Oy. He fought discrimination at home and an enemy abroad during World War two. one of Senator Noise Legacy is that a life committed to public service can be a proud and fulfilling career. This is the type of impact that we all hope to impart in future generations who come after us. I see major general various slums as a connector and collaborator who looks for synergies and paths to move the most complex relationships and challenges forward. She has a genuine love and respect for people and service and the belief that we all have something to contribute. In closing, I want to express my thanks to Major General various slums for your service and commitment to our nation and the state of Hawaii Don and I wish you the best in your future endeavors. As you continue to share your leadership and expertise, the world deserves your skills and talent to make it a better, more safer place for all of us. Aloha Mahalo. Congratulations and best wishes. Yeah. Mhm. Governor, may I please ask you to join general various lamb on the carpet? Thank you sir. At this time Governor E. G. Will present his letter of commendation, which reads, It is a pleasure to extend my congratulations on your retirement after more than 34 years of dedicated service to the people of Hawaii. During your career with the Department of Defense, you have served the people of Hawaii faithfully and well. Your dedication to public service is deeply appreciated and I extend my highest commendation and gratitude for a job. Well done. Good luck. That’s right. Yeah. I will now read a certificate in recognition of outstanding service to the state of Hawaii from the speaker of the House. The honourable scott psyche. Major General Suzanne PVR Islam from Wawa Oahu has honorably served her country for over 34 years. She played a key role in the Pacific Command’s effort to shape and maintain regional security through development of diplomatic, economic and military policies. General, very slim inspired women as well as asian americans and pacific Islanders to successfully aspire to leadership, whether in the military or in other organizations. She was honored with the Ellis Island Medal of Honor which recognizes individuals who have made their mission to serve others and they do so while acknowledging their ethnic heritage as they uphold the ideals and spirit of America. The 31st Hawaii State Legislature hereby recognizes and congratulates Major General very slum on her retirement from the United States Army and extends its warm and warmest Aloha and best wishes for all future endeavors. Yeah, it is my honor to introduce the Commander of the United States indo pacific command. Admiral Phil Davidson. Good morning. And aloha, it’s an absolute pleasure to be here today. I’d like to say thank you and of course extend a warm welcome to governor and mrs E. G. You’re very powerful words too much to honor Major General vera slum. And I thank you so much for taking the time out of your extraordinarily busy schedule to be here today. Thank you Governor. Thank you. No doubt. We are saying farewell to one of Hawaii’s hometown heroes and indeed one of America’s finest. And for me it’s a true honor to commemorate the momentous departure of what can only be said has been an inspirational leader, a devoted soldier, a trusted advisor and my dear friend. Before I continue, I want to welcome all the fellow flag and general officers are senior enlisted leaders are local community and civic leaders are distinguished guests and of course all of those watching around the world as we live stream today’s ceremony. Thank you all for joining us on this very special day. Most importantly, I would like to extend a very special welcome to the var islam family. Mr Courtney var Islam, a retired U. S. Army lieutenant colonel, continues to serve and take care of others as a full time father, as the head of a life insurance company dedicated to helping families and as a military spouse, Kourtney has worked with my wife Tracy on many events supporting military spouses, contributing to an increasingly diverse ohana of military spouses that have been eager to serve others. Courtney, thank you. Thank you for all that you have done for indo pak um service members and their families and for all of the support you continue to provide your family. Thanks very much. Yeah. Mhm. I also want to recognize Susie and Courtney’s amazing daughters. Diana, a senior at UC santa Barbara and is working towards a career in medicine. Unless there’s some surprise coming up. Okay. And Kanye, of course, a senior at Colorado high school who was set to attend George Mason University in Washington outside of Washington, D. C. This coming fall. Now if you know, major General Susie var islam, you know that for her family is everything. And if you have spent any time with Susie, you know that she has the innate ability to make everyone else around her feel like family part of the virus lum. Ohana the Hawaii Ohana and of course our indo pak um Ohana as well. Susie also exudes a deep sense of appreciation for her Hawaiian heritage and upbringing and she cultivates these values every day in advancing our vision for a free and open indo pacific. Shortly after I took command, I charged Susie with a direct management of advancing indo pak um steep and enduring relationship with Hawaii. Well, wouldn’t you know it, the very first thing she did in this role was give me homework. I should have expected this from someone with a master’s of education and teaching. Now I have spent more time in Hawaii than in any other place during my time in the military, Nearly a decade of service out of my nearly 40 years. But in reading the book, the shoal of time, I developed a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Hawaii that has undoubtedly served me well in command. And of course the credit must go to Susie. She has inculcated a common sense of respect for the land, the people and the culture of hawaii throughout the indo pacific command Headquarters, our service component commands and our other units here in Hawaii and it has absolutely paid off in enriching our relationships within the local community, her portfolio and and opaque um goes far beyond that. However, she’s also the principal advisor to me on key strategic issues with a focus on us pacific homeland, which in addition to hawaii includes Guam, the commonwealth of the northern Mariana. Silence american Samoa are other territories as well as the freely associated states, the Republic of palau, the Federated states of Micronesia and the Republic of the Marshall islands. She has served in numerous leadership roles throughout the indo pacific command headquarters, clearly demonstrating her abilities as a dynamic senior leader and resident expert in strategy, policy and operations related to our national security here in the indo pacific, Suzy is the first woman ever to perform the duties of the indo pacific command, Deputy commander as well as the indo pacific command Chief of staff and she performed masterfully in both roles. Now I’d like to highlight a few of the strategic initiatives that she has directly led or influenced in helping to ensure a free and open Indo pacific First, Susie possesses a unique understanding of our priorities for the region, addressing the strategic challenge that is the people’s Republic of China and the more immediate threat presented by north Korea. Her relentless advocacy and engaging with government and civic leaders throughout the region has paved the way for critical defense systems including the Guam defense system, the tactical multi mission over the horizon radar in palau and the homeland defense radar in Hawaii. These vital systems provide the necessary increases in our joint force to help deter aggression and defend the homeland are U. S. Territories and our allies and partners in the indo pacific second, as part of our indo pacific Command Initiative to enhance our force design and posture. Suzy has been the critical conduit in our efforts to establish divert airfields in Tinian and SaiPan in the tsunami. These invaluable airfields provide strategic locations to improve the joint forces ability to project power to deter adversaries and to respond to any crises in the indo pacific Suzy has worked tirelessly with Admiral Minani at joint region Marianas and Admiral Admiral Adamant at pacific fleet to support our investments in infrastructure development and our posture in our most critical operating location west of the international Dateline. Guam Third. Suzy has been our subject matter expert and are respected liaison on all matters pertaining to land use of our joint training ranges and facilities here in Hawaii. These include the bihac alot, a training range on the big island, the only brigade size, live fire and maneuver training range throughout the Indo pacific region. It includes the pacific missile range facility Mrf Unquiet, the world’s largest instrumented multidimensional testing and training range Susie established at Indo pak um the Joint Land Use Board to determine effective solutions to key Department of Defense land lease renewal in Hawaii and she did so with in collaboration with the state. She was also the face of the D. O. D. S. Efforts to develop a new combined and joint military training range. In CNN, my bringing stakeholders together to address issues that may affect the local community. Indeed, these training areas in Hawaii and in C N. M I are invaluable to our Indo pacific command exercises are experimentation, our innovation program and are critically important to our Joint Force training and readiness throughout the Indo pacific Fourth, Susie routinely served as an envoy for Indo pacific Command throughout the region to assist in strengthening our alliances and partnerships. It always brought great peace of mind to myself and made reaching our objectives much easier at Indo pak. Um And during her time in our headquarters, she has conducted countless engagements on my behalf to help shape and maintain our military and non military relationships among the 36 nations within the Indo Pacific region. To be sure, Major General Susie very Islam is an ambassador of awesome here. Lastly, Major General var Islam has been instrumental in improving our indo pacific Command logistics and security enablers. She developed a transparent and concerted effort to address concerns regarding the Redhill fuel storage facility while simultaneously highlighting the critical support it provides to the joint force, as well as crucial fuel to the state of Hawaii during any emergency response, like the 2018 floods on Hawaii and during The 2018 Volcanic Activity on the Big Island. She has also been an extraordinary advocate as the indo pacific command lead on our Department of Defense Leading Program for Women, Peace and security initiatives, not only within the headquarters but across the country and throughout the region has her impact and leadership been felt in this regard. Suzy recently led the first quadrilateral women, Peace and security Webinar was senior leaders representing Japan, Australia and India and joined her in an effort to harness the collective power of our democratic values to help make the region safer for women and girls and to advance the role of women in organizations dedicated to stability and security. As you can see as a two star general with 3.5 decades of military experience, Major General var Islam is truly an inspiration to young women, both inside and outside of the military. A Trailblazer indeed. And believe me she is absolutely an inspiration to all of our men and women in uniform as well. In all susie. You have absolutely advanced indo pacific command’s vision to compete to deter and if necessary to fight and win on the challenges that face us. Your very unique ability to lead, strategize and build relationships, personifies the values that indo pak. Um the U. S. Army and indeed the nation hold dear. It has truly been a pleasure serving with you over the past three years, I cherish our friendship and I look forward to remaining close in the years to come as well. I know that I speak for everyone at Indo pak on when I say you’re leaving quite the legacy and you will surely be missed fortunately I know you will continue to champion all of the many causes you are so deeply involved in which are vital to addressing our national security challenges and opportunities. Uh huh. It gives me great pleasure knowing you will serve as a strategic advisor to the Hawaii Chamber of Commerce, Military Affairs Council, an organization you are intimately familiar with in a position perfectly tailored to your talents. Susie and Courtney, your departure from Indo pak um can only be bitter sweet Tracy and I will miss you and we wish you nothing but the best on your next adventure. Finally, Susie, congratulations on a remarkable career and your promotion to civilian. You have been a Trailblazer throughout your professional life and I believe I know that your nation, the Hawaii Ohana, and indeed all of our allies, partners and friends throughout the indo pacific will benefit from your energy, your experience and your enterprising spirit in the decades to come. Yeah. Mhm. So on behalf of Admiral Harry, Harris and myself who have served with you here in the pacific command, on behalf of all the soldiers, sailor sailors, airmen, marines, coast guardsmen, Guardians of us Indo pacific command, Mahalo Nui Loa. For all that you have done for indo pak on for the U. S. Army, for the state of Hawaii and most importantly for the peace and security of the United States and the indo pacific region. We all are grateful for your service. May God bless the var islam family, the women and men of the U. S. Army an indo pacific command. The great State of Hawaii and May God bless the United States of America. Thank you very much for honoring susie with your presence today. Thank you Admiral Davidson. Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the presentation of the Defense Superior Service Medal, Attention to orders. Major General Suzanne P very slum. United States Army distinguished herself by exceptionally distinguished service as a mobilization assistant to the Commander Headquarters. United States Indo pacific command from May 2018 to May 2021. An exceptionally gifted leader, diplomat and communicator. She served the nation at the highest levels with the deepest conviction and with historically significant results. General very slim served the nation at the highest levels with the deepest conviction and regional political. Military affairs was fundamental to the success of the United States security strategy in the indo pacific region. She masterfully formulated theater wide reserve component programs, led pacific nation initiatives. Synchronize strategic land lease options and advise the commander on the implementation general. Very slim. Served as the first female chief of staff during a volatile transition period, ensuring continuity of operations. While overseeing the renewed focus on Oceania. The nation’s within the command, a preeminent military ambassador. She forged lasting and productive relationships with key military and diplomatic leaders. The distinctive accomplishments of general, very slim, culminated a long and lasting career in the service of her country and reflect great credit upon herself the United States Army and the Department of Defense. Mhm, mm hmm. Yeah. Yeah. Mhm. Okay. Admiral Davidson will now retire. Major General very slum aye, sir. Major General Suzanne PVR Islam mobilization Assistant to the Commander Headquarters. United States Indo pacific command is retired from the United States Army in the grade of Major general after 34 years of distinguished service to our, to our nation. By order of the Secretary of the Army. Lieutenant Colonel. Retired Courtney very slim. Will you please come forward? Admiral Davidson will now present the outstanding Public service Award to Lieutenant Colonel Retired Courtney very islam. Hi sir, attention to orders. The Distinguished Public Service Award is presented to Mr Courtney very solemn for distinguished service to the Department of Defense through a succession of extraordinary contributions and tireless support to all personnel assigned to the United States in the pacific command, his compassion and generosity, coupled with extensive knowledge of the local community, made him made his contributions critical to building camaraderie across multiple fronts. Mr various limbs, unique insight into both active duty and National Guard organizations allowed for further integration of both entities within the headquarters. A continual calming presence around headquarters. Mr. Various laM’s passion for supporting United States in the pacific Command personnel resulted in a renewed emphasis in inclusivity and equality amongst the force. Further furthering and enhancing the command’s vision. His many contributions directly supported the commands mission to advance regional security and prosperity throughout the indo pacific region. The distinctive accomplishments of Mr Very slim reflect great credit upon himself. The United States in the pacific Command and the Department of Defense. Yeah, okay. Not, not yet. Not yet. Not yet. Not yet. Ladies and gentlemen, please be seated. Admiral Davidson will now present the Certificate of appreciation to Lieutenant Colonel Retired Courtney very islam. This is to certify that mister Courtney B. Various lem on the occasion of the retirement of your spouse from the United States Army has earned grateful appreciation for your own unselfish, faithful and devoted service. Your unfailing support and understanding helped to make possible your spouse’s lasting contribution to the nation, signed the United States Army Chief of Staff. Yeah. Mhm. Mhm. Admiral Davidson will now present the Certificate of appreciation from the President of the United States. The Certificate of appreciation for the service in the Armed Forces of the United States. From Major General Suzanne P. Very Islam. I extend my personal thanks and sincere appreciation of a grateful nation for your contribution of honorable service to our country. You have helped maintain the security of the nation during a critical time in its history. With a devotion to duty and a spirit of sacrifice. In keeping with the proud traditions of military service. Your commitment and dedication have been an inspiration for those who will follow in your footsteps and for all americans who join me today in saluting you for a job extremely well done. Science Commander in chief. Mhm. Mhm. Mhm. Yeah. Mhm. All right. Thank you. Admiral Davidson. This is gonna be a hard one, but I’ll do my best. It is my honor to present to you for the first time. Major General Suzanne P. Very islam. The United States Army retired. Yeah. Mhm. Yeah. Aloha. My cocoa governor, E. Gay and First Lady Admiral and mrs Davidson Tracy. Distinguished military, civilian government and community leaders, fellow service members, veterans, family and friends here and online and across the world. The United States throughout Oceania and various countries throughout this amazing globe. Mahalo Nui Loa from the bottom of my heart for taking your precious time to join me and my family for this army Navy not game but retirement ceremony. Thank you Major Williamson. Thank you for your aloha. The protocol team led by Mr tom Burton the side boys Color guard 1/11 army band, the escorts our public affairs Dm accrue the USs battleship Missouri stuff. The Hawaiian National Guard and all the hands who made today happen Mahalo for your L. O. H. J. And I’m not gonna sing. But it’s aloha. Thank you. I have so many thanks to impart to all of you. This ceremony alone wouldn’t do it justice. You know that if I could, I would thank each and every one of you individually and I plan to do so when I get a chance to see you an opportunity to connect virtually online. But first thanks I’d like to make is really Thanks to God who has led me and my family throughout my 34 years in uniform. And I’m not only grateful for his divine intervention when I needed it chaplain, but also guiding our family through good times and challenging times. And thank you chaplain for the weather today. I also want to thank my ROTC buddy, life friend, partner and husband Kourtney. Lieutenant colonel retired. We’ve been married for 32 years and I’m looking forward to our next journey together, especially since he retired over four years ago. Thank you to my blessings from God, Diana and Connie for your love and patience with us as we made a choice to serve in uniform and you had no choice in the matter. Just like many of us here are Children don’t but grateful for all the surrogate parents out there and there are many and my sisters out there who filled in during our absence girls, you make me proud every day. Diane, I’m so proud of how hard you work and how have you been studying and the fact that you have the Band of Brothers theme song on your phone. But that’s another thing. But really because you’ve taught me about how awesome our next generation of young leaders are when I watch you serve the homeless community in santa Barbara and how you care about the greater good it inspires me. Can you? I’m also proud of the independent young woman that you’ve become and how you have challenged yourself to get a job on your own, joined the track team, seek out exciting global future at George mason University and potentially look to be in the State Department and usaid. I’d I’m not crying, that’s just hot. I also want to thank my parents and in laws and my relatives online. Thank you. And I want to thank my sisters, my dear friends and fellow service members and co workers and classmates online Who couldn’t be here personally due to COVID-19. But governor, thanks for pointing out that number. That’s I really appreciate everybody on the line. Governor and mrs Donna Mono E. G. Mahalo Nui loa for your kind words and encouragement, your leadership and support throughout the years. And it’s been many years as a commander in chief of our Hawaii National Guard. You’ve always been there for the military through deployments, every activity, every event. And you’ve made us the D. O. D. Part of the Hawaii Ohana Admiral and mrs Davidson. I cannot thank you enough sir for your leadership and support. Throughout the years I’ve learned so much from you calm. You’ve guided me and showed me that I can do much more than I thought. You show me, showing us all that we can do much more than what we individually believe. You couldn’t have made that more evident when you showed your trust and confidence in me to sit in as a Chief of staff on the shoulders of giants like Ron Clark and General Minehan. Um during that transition between General Schneider, General Clark and also you allowed me to be the acting deputy commander between Lieutenant General Fenton and Lieutenant General Minehan. And it’s been an honor to serve with you both a servant couple really who’s given your lives to the service of our nation and I feel blessed to have worked under your leadership and with both of you. Lieutenant General Mina handycam. Major General Clark, our Chief of Staff, Command Sergeant Major shorter, Ambassador Gold as well as Lieutenant General Fenton and Sergeant Major Spadaro and all of our joint staff directors, deputy’s uniform civilian and contractor staff you on the line or what makes this command world class and a place where I love coming to work every day and I will miss it. It’s a place where you feel the Mana. If you don’t know what that is, you can ask your hawaii friend Mana is that energy of all the mind solving the most complex problems together. There’s nothing like the synergy. We have to connect with the best component commanders and the sub unified commanders on this planet. With pacific fleet led by Admiral Aquilino And thanks for being here for him. Pacific air forces led by general worlds beyond US. Army pacific led by general a camera. Thank you sir for being here. Marine forces pacific led by lieutenant General rudder, Special Operations Command, Brigadier General U. S. Forces, Japan, Lieutenant General Schneider and U. S forces Korea by General Abrams. How fortunate I’ve been to work with the team of professionals at the Center for Excellence and Disaster Management Led by joe martin. Joint Interagency Task Force West. Led by Rear Admiral Hayes. Asia pacific Center for Security Studies led by Rear Admiral guma Toto as well as nasa backpack by john Minani. I mean sorry now fact pack. Rear Admiral john adamant as well as J. R. M. Led by Rear Admiral john maloney US army Garrison Hawaii. Led by Major General Gerard University of Hawaii. President Lassiter Inter Agency including the State Department, Department of Commerce, Interior OsD MDA. Office of Economic Adjustment. I could go on. There are so many others as well as major general horror and also Major General. Gary horror and command Sergeant. Major Wingate in the Hawaii National Guard. General Officers, senior leaders, former agendas. General soldiers, Airmen currently serving and retired. Thank you for being incredible team mates. Thank you for what you do for our state during this covid fight, man made and natural disasters yesterday, today and tomorrow. You are always there when our state and nation needs you and how proud I’ve been to serve shoulders to shoulder with so many of you over the years really goes to this idea of leadership and mentorship, leadership and mentorship is something I’ve learned over the years. And Admiral, you’ve taught me a lot about that many of you here in this audience and online you understand how important it is to groom mentor and provide real opportunity to the next generation of leaders, even when they don’t look like you. As the governor said, when they come from diverse backgrounds and experiences our military has and still does lead the way. And the Admiral Davidson has said this many times. We lead the way really in diversity and inclusion in our nation. In fact, we’ve seen it over the last century paving the way to integration for all races and women at the seat at the table. When I started as a private in 1986, I joined the Army, observe if you would have told me that I would work for Admiral Harris or Admiral Davidson. Leading leaders of the largest and oldest combatant command, 52 of the Earth’s surface. Working with 36 nations, 14 time zones and meeting the most incredible people around the world. I know I would not have believed you. I would have thought you were crazy. It takes leaders like those here and online who took the time to invest in someone like me local girl to guide and mentor, allow me to fail and get back up. Then sore and realize success. For this reason I’m committed to mentorship and have been involved in the pan pacific american leaders and mentors Hawaii chapter that connects mentees and experienced professionals. My mentor, Colonel, walter, colonel, retired Kanye coup introduced me to this idea along with Brigadier general, retired Jim here I and Major General Tony, retired, Tony Taguba. My life at us indo pacific command started 5.5 years and don’t worry, I won’t chronicle every year when Lieutenant General Mike Dana. Then the J five brought me up to pay. Come under the leadership of Admiral and ambassador retired Harry Harris and I’m forever grateful for these gentlemen who gave me a chance to blaze a new trail. I actually ended up working for the first half of my tour for Admiral Harris and Lieutenant General Runner. Thank you sir and Major General Mckeen Malevich who vectored me toward exercises internationalization of the headquarters, bilateral engagement, strategic deterrence and women, peace and security initiatives. It was a challenge, but we are all refined by fire. You know when I think about Admiral Davidson’s leadership, he has partnered, he’s he believes in allies and partners in our vision. You know, from a foreign policy perspective, the indo pacific is the single most consequential region for the future of the United States. And this is no surprise when one looks at the figures In 10 years. The region will host 2/3 of the world’s population, two thirds of the global economy. U. S. Businesses already invest $1.3 trillion in the indo pacific region. And at the U. S. Indo pacific command. Our job is to provide combat credible deterrence in order to promote conditions for regional stability and economic prosperity. Our indo pak um Commander Admiral Davidson has set of course and I love that I’m using a lot of these navy terms were on the bridge set a course for envisioned for us all. It’s okay, General Camera, I’m still army soldier, uh communities, allies and partners to thrive and prosper in a region that values freedom and openness for all a a region that is free from coercion by those who have their own view of world order. Unlike the authoritarian regimes in the region who oppress and course their neighbors. We have endeavored to really realize a vision that is inclusive, respectful and collaborative. And of course we don’t do this alone. We do this with our allies and partners and I’m grateful to have worked with all of you side by side, many of them on the line today with this collaborative approach, I had the great honor of working alongside our pacific homeland team to work with leaders like Hawaii’s Governor Eagles team, Governor of Guam, leon Guerrero’s team, Governor of the commonwealth of northern marianas, Governor tourist’s team as well as the Governor of American Samoa. Governor Malaga, who is Ruh ROTC classmate, Jason and Courtney so proud of our Army Hawaii Army ROTC program. Who are our continued dialogue and relationships made substantial headway on a number of initiatives that underscore the unique and critical role as admiral said Hawaii Guam CNN my in american Samoa play in the defense of our nation and with the help of the Military Affairs Council led by Connie lau and the support from Jen’s Abbas and colonel retired Jason chung mei uhh Army ROTC classmate. We’ve been able to connect Hawaii community leaders and government leaders including our Hawaii State Legislature and R. D. O. D. Leaders to collaborate on critical issues that you heard the Admiral mention. Hawaii Hawaii is my home in the middle of this vast pacific ocean, the blue continent and it is the crossroads of the pacific, a place that upholds the values of Aloha that brings together the diversity of cultures, languages and traditions nested in Hawaiian values and american values. I say this as being a child of this place where my ancestors are from hawaii and where some of my ancestors also came here from japan china Portugal Connecticut. I know that’s not a country but back then this was a kingdom sir. I know you’re from Connecticut Ireland and Tahiti and as major general horror once told me hawaii is not a melting pot, it’s beef stew, you can taste the potatoes, the carrots and beef individually and they all mixed together to make a perfect dish. Hawaii is geologically connected to our pacific island nations in Oceania because of its history. Language and culture. Hawaii is part of the pacific homeland to include Guam CNN my american Samoa. That can be further developed into an intimate innovative beacon of opportunity which I believe will be shaped by enhancements. Like the pacific deterrence initiative designed to enhance our deterrent strategy, the 4.6 billion Fy 22 p. D. I requests that has the potential to shape a myriad of initiatives throughout Hawaii, like the mission partner environment in the region and the pacific multi domain training and the experimentation capability. The Pym tech, our pacific homeland, including the compact nations of army F. S. M. In palau has a long tradition of service with the highest percentage rates of military service than any other state or territory in the nation. A study of recruiting data found that pacific Islanders And of course that includes our native Hawaiian community, joined the us army at a rate of 249 higher than any other ethnic group. I believe. This stems from the connection the Department of Defense has to our islands and the strong desire to protect it and our families. So when I look back, when I look back on my service in all three components of the Army, Reserve, Regular Army and National Garden deploying during o. I. F. Three with many of you here With the 29th Infantry Brigade and having served in the third Infantry Division to Vardy when there were hardly any women or the one third military intelligence battalion when there was an east and west Germany, I think not just of the times in the field being cold and hungry, looking at my army comrades here who love it or the times of incredible loss, but I think of the capacity of the people I have served with, the character of the people who can make something out of nothing, who know how to set a vision and can do and will do everything in their power. To make it a reality. I think of the heroes who raise their right hand and sacrificed their lives on the altar of freedom like our Hawaii’s own Sergeant, Jason Kharyaga of the 29th Infantry Brigade or C N I C N N. My heroes, Staff sergeant will julieto or specialist Jack difference Jack, Along with 15 others who never returned home alive From the 29th Infantry Brigade during R. O. i. f3 deployment. I think of my dad who is watching from above who served 40 years and all three components as well. Vietnam veteran who worked for some here and some online, he used to say That time waits for no one. And if you asked him if one of the things he was most proud of, he would say the service to our nation. He liked my sister, Annette, my uncles, my great uncle’s father in law, Her Courtney’s uncles nana during World War Two. All served wearing our nation’s cloth. What an honor truly to have worn this uniform. To wear it now, to serve to do something bigger than myself to watch and marvel the commitment of the men and women and armed forces who, if you ask any veteran, need no explanation as it can be seen in their eyes. The unspoken look of a veteran, the more you dig and ask about, where did you serve? What did you do? You can understand without much explanation. And this is true amongst all service members and I’m proud to stand side by side with each and every one of you. So what’s next? I’m proud to announce my relief of mobilization assistant to indo pak. Um Major General Mark Hashimoto, United States Marine Corps who is here today. He’s born and raised in Hawaii and I’ve been telling everybody he’s opponent graduate because we really don’t care. He went to stanford or U. C. L. A. It matters that you what high school you went to. Mhm. We are really in good hands. And as I wrap up here, I want to thank Mahalo New Law. Each and every one of you after I retire. I hope to see many of you in a different capacity wearing a different uniform. Like some of you here with your manu hailed e uh I’m looking forward to serving Connie as a strategic advisor to the Hawaii Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Council And I hope to continue to work with all of you in some way shape or form anything I can do to help continue this bond between our Department of Defense and the people of Hawaii because we are part of the Hama Ohana. So as I’m piped ashore today for the last time. Yes. My army brothers and sisters in a joint fashion. I know I got some eyebrows raised when I doing this navy retirement, but I love it. I couldn’t be more honored to be sitting here next to Admiral Davidson. I’m transitioning like my maritime brothers and sisters by being piped ashore with side boys. Thank you to my side boys. Please. No, that I could. If I could, I would tell each and every one of you how special you are and have been to me and my family. If I could look each one of you in the eye, I would tell you that you’ve been a special part of my journey and I feel so very blessed. I will never forget. This will always be a part of me. Old soldiers never die, which was one of the last things I told my dad not crying. Generally. Camera. God bless each and every one of you and our families. God bless Hawaii are pacific homeland. God bless our nation. And our world kolya A canoe means strive for the summit. Mahalo pia means from the bottom of my heart. Aloha. Oy and Julio. I’ll see you again. Mhm. Yeah. Yeah. By request of Major General retired very slum. We will now play bits of the United States Service med leads beginning from the Coast Guard and ending with the United States Army is well, we’re already standing. So mm. It’s appropriate to extinct with your service component D. J. Yeah. Yourself. My. Mhm. Yeah. This is something thanks for advisors life because you’re going on right. Well, never We go to yard by car. Find the boy. Stop, stop coming up, man. Mhm. It’s all me. Mhm. The last time. Mhm. I want to get one moment. You’re Yeah. Yeah. Find on looking in the wrong. Yeah. Fight all right and fucking times. Yeah. Yeah. Oh yeah. Somebody we’ll all be back. Yeah. So how wrong? Yeah. Oh. Mhm. Everyone has a beautiful voice at this time. Uh huh. It’s a naval it as a time honored naval tradition, sailors request permission to go ashore. The tradition of side boys harkened back to age of sail when guests were hoisted aboard in a system of pulleys attached to a board known as a boston chair. When visitors were hoisted aboard the bus, inmate coordinated the procedure, calling the order to hoist away on his call. When the visitor reaches a designated point on the brow, the boston initiates the command for him to come aboard the side boys and all others on the quarterdeck, then salute the boston pipes over the side. when the visitor departs, the process is repeated in reverse. This special side boy detail is comprised of members who are my name requested and who have helped Major General various lum during her career. Brigadier generals, moses, Cowie ve neill mitsukoshi. Brigadier general, retired keith thomas hero who managed to dust off his uniform just for this occasion. Colonel Pamela Ellison, Chief warrant officer for jP parwan, Staff Sergeant, Vanessa Breckenridge, both in Bogado and Ian to Fernandez. Alvarez Bhasin post the side boys. Laura five more wow. Lieutenant Colonel Retired very slum. Diana and Connie, Will you please join your wife and mother front at this time? Major General very Islam. Will now request Admiral Davidson for mission for permission to go ashore for the last time. Mark? Yeah, yeah. Major General Suzanne, very slum. And family, United States Army Retired, departing. Mhm. I haven’t. Mhm. Okay. On behalf of Admiral Davidson and Major General retired various lamb, I extend their sincere appreciation for your attendance to all who are streaming online and multiple time zones all over the world. Mahalo for being here virtually. Please stay safe. Mahlum Apono huay Ho until we meet again. Aloha side boys.