Major General Christopher Hughes was honored during a Flying "V" ceremony held on historic Palm Circle July 23.
The Flying V Ceremony traditionally honors incoming and outgoing senior leaders. The ceremony earns its moniker from the manner in which the colors are posted--that is in a "V" formation.
While Hughes is no stranger to U.S. Army Pacific, his 32-year career brings him back to the Asia-Pacific region to serve as USARPAC Chief of Staff.
"Marguerite and I are both thrilled to be here--personally and professionally," said Hughes. "USARPAC, in my opinion, is a pioneer for strategic innovation and agility here in the Pacific."
As the wind brushed across the colors of the 15 subordinate and theater-enabling commands, which spanned across historic Palm Circle, USARPAC Commanding General, Gen. Vincent K. Brooks, took to the podium to welcome and express his regards for Hughes.
"You have to understand the significance of the Chief of Staff position," said Brooks. "USARPAC is a unique organization that includes over 106,000 people across 16 time zones. It is a direct reporting headquarters to the Department of the Army as well as U.S. Pacific Command. The position was elevated from Colonel to Major General in 2013 as part of the Army's investment to the strategic rebalance. Maj. Gen. will be the one in charge of the staff that keeps it all going."
Brooks stated that Hughes' presence was highly anticipated, as he was ready for him to settle into the new position.
"He is one highly developed officer with unique depth and breadth that he is now bringing to this command," said Brooks. "Best of all, he brings an experienced Army spouse, Marguerite, to our ohana as well. We are fortunate indeed to have the Hughes family as a part of our team and I look forward to serving with them. So welcome back to the 'One Team' ohana."
As Brooks said, "Hughes hit the ground running," taking the necessary time to get his family settled in and found his way to USARPAC in good timing. He was then able to remove one of the dual hats from Deputy Commanding, Maj. Gen. Todd McCaffrey, who held the seat as interim chief of staff.
Hughes looked out across the field at the Soldiers standing tall representing history and USARPAC heritage, then he turned to Brooks to express his gratitude for the opportunity of serving the command and Soldiers throughout USARPAC.
"I'm grateful for the opportunity to serve this great team here in Hawaii and I look forward to the many challenges ahead," said Hughes. "Thank you very much, 'One Team' and Mahalo."
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