WASHINGTON (Nov. 6, 2014) -- The newest Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (CASA) was invested during a ceremony conducted in October at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, Virginia.
Richard W. Eastman, Jr. was selected by Secretary of the Army John McHugh as one of two CASAs representing New Jersey. He joins Robert J. Maguire, who has been serving as a CASA for New Jersey since 2005.
"Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, I have been actively involved in New Jersey's business community's support to military families, especially New Jersey National Guard and Picatinny Arsenal," Eastman said. "I am honored to join CASA Robert Maguire in representing New Jersey, and privileged for being able to continue serving our country and supporting our soldiers as the newly appointed CASA for New Jersey."
CASAs, who were formally recognized in 1922, have become a vital part of the Army, promoting good relations between the Army and the public and advising the Secretary about regional issues.
"We are pleased to have Mr. Eastman join this important program," McHugh said during the ceremony. "He will be a great addition to New Jersey and will work on behalf of our soldiers."
Each state, the District of Columbia and the five U.S. territories have one or more CASAs appointed to provide a vital link between the Army and the communities for which they serve. CASAs are usually business or civic leaders who possess a keen interest in the welfare of the Army and their communities.
Eastman graduated from St. Peter's College in Jersey City, New Jersey, with a degree in mathematics and then completed his masters in business administration studies at Fairleigh Dickinson University and University of Denver. Eastman currently serves as the Military Liaison for the Morris County Chamber of Commerce supporting the Army's Soldier For Life and Community Covenant programs. He served a combined 24 years in the U.S. Army and Army Reserve, and has held numerous senior positions in the private sector, including World Trade Centers Association, VPI and AT&T.
CASAs serve a two-year term without compensation. Terms may be extended to a total of 10 years of service, followed by possible appointment as a CASA Senior for 10 additional years. The Secretary may recognize a Civilian Aide as a CASA Emeritus after 20 years of service. To date, more than 500 individuals have served the Army and the nation as a CASA.
For more information contact Mr. Wayne V. Hall at 703-693-7589 or wayne.v.hall.civ@mail.mil.
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