New Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army invested - Pascoe

By U.S. ArmyNovember 16, 2017

Pascoe investiture as new CASA
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

The newest Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (CASA) was invested during a ceremony conducted November 7th at the Pentagon.

Richard W. Pascoe was selected by the Acting Secretary of the Army, Ryan D. McCarthy, to represent California (South).

"I am honored to be given this unique opportunity to continue my service to our country as a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army." Pascoe said. "I look forward to working with the Secretary, and my fellow Civilian Aides, to support our military and civilian communities throughout Southern California."

CASAs are a vital part of the Army, promoting good relationships between the Army and the public and advising the Secretary about regional issues.

"It is my distinct privilege to invest Rich into the CASA program. You're joining an elite group. You are needed now more than ever given that only one percent of the American population has served in the Armed Forces. You are the bridge from your community to the military. Your support to Soldiers and their Families is unsurpassed. You have a history of supporting Soldiers and their Families through the various charities and boards that you serve on. I am confidence that Rich will have a positive impact to California and the CASA Program."

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.

Pascoe has been a leader in the biotech industry for over 25 years. He is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Apricus Biosciences in San Diego, CA. Pascoe is a 1986 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point. He served on active duty as a commissioned officer with the U.S. Army from 1986 to 1991 with the 24th Infantry Division, to include one combat tour in Iraq during Operations Desert Shield and Storm. He also served in the North Carolina National Guard with the 113th Field Artillery Regiment where he attained the rank of Major.

Pascoe serves on several boards to including BIOCOM, where he leads their Veteran's Outreach Initiative, The Johnny Mac Soldiers Fund, which funds scholarships for Gold Star Families, and Kempharm, Inc., a public pharmaceutical company.

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 distinguished service.