WASHINGTON (December 8, 2016) -- The newest civilian aide to the secretary of the Army (CASA) was invested during a ceremony conducted at the Pentagon in late November.
Luis A. Soto-Ruiz was appointed by Secretary of the Army Eric Fanning to represent Puerto Rico. Soto-Ruiz replaces Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Felix Santoni, who served in the position for 14 years before stepping down in early November.
CASAs are a vital part of the Army, promoting good relations between the Army and the public and advising the secretary about regional issues.
"It is an honor to be part of this team of dedicated civilians assisting the Army get the community support it deserves," Soto-Ruiz said. "I am delighted to accept this appointment and look forward to the challenges ahead."
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.
"Luis's background in engineering and marketing, along with his commitment to the local community will be a great asset to the Army and Puerto Rico," Fanning said. "I have no doubt he will do great things for our Army family."
Since 1993, Soto-Ruiz has been President of UNO Radio Group and previously held several posts within the group such as Director of Engineering, Chief Engineer and Filed Engineer. He earned a bachelor's of science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, Massachusetts, and is working towards a M.B.A. in Finance from the Inter American University in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Additionally, Soto-Ruiz holds an EIT State Engineer license. He has received many national awards and recognitions including: Society of Marketing Executives of PR "Top Management Award;" Puerto Rico Senate Recognition for successful Radio Career; Puerto Rico Radio Broadcaster Association "Distinction in Engineering Joaquín Agusty Award;" and Inter American University's Dean's List.
CASAs serve a two-year term without compensation. Terms may be extended to a total of 10 years of service. The secretary may recognize a civilian aide as a CASA Emeritus after 10 years of service with distinguished service.
For more information, contact Wayne V. Hall at 703-693-7589, or wayne.v.hall.civ@mail.mil.
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