Two new Civilian Aides to the Secretary of the Army appointed

By U.S. Army Public AffairsSeptember 10, 2018

Two new Civilian Aides to the Secretary of the Army (CASAs)
Secretary of the Army Dr. Mark T. Esper (center) appoints two new Civilian Aides to the Secretary of the Army (CASAs) in the Patriot Room at the Pentagon, Aug. 27, 2018. Retired Maj. Gen. Christopher P. Hughes (right) will represent Iowa West and ret... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Army appointed two new Civilian Aides to the Secretary of the Army (CASAs) Aug. 27 during an investment ceremony here in the Pentagon.

The Honorable Dr. Mark T. Esper, Secretary of the Army, presided.

CASAs are a vital part of the Army. Their duties and responsibilities include keeping the public informed about why a strong and robust Army is vital to our national security; partnering with the Soldier for Life program to support our transitioning Soldiers and families; connecting prospective Soldiers with recruiters and commissioning sources; promoting good relations between the Army, Congress and the public; and advising the Secretary on regional issues.

The new CASAS are G. Thomas Greco, representing Idaho, and Christopher P. Hughes, representing Iowa (West).

"It is my distinct privilege to invest Tom and Chris into the CASA program," Esper said. "CASAs connect communities across the country to assist with Army recruiting and convey the hard work being done to ensure America's Army remains the most dominant land force in the world. I have full confidence each will positively impact their respective states 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 they serve. CASAs are usually business or civic leaders who possess a keen interest in the welfare of the Army and their communities.

G. THOMAS GRECO

"After a 24-year career in the United States Army and service in college and university leadership and Christian ministry positions, it's an honor to serve Secretary Esper as a civilian aide for the Great State of Idaho," Greco said. "I look forward to telling the Army story in my community for the growth and well-being of our warfighters, military families and heroic veterans."

Greco served more than 24 years as an infantry officer. He led an air-assault task force deep behind enemy lines during Operation Desert Storm and was decorated for valor and heroism.

After retirement as a colonel, he served as dean of students at Treasure Valley Community College in Ontario, Oregon; as business school area chair at the University of Phoenix; and as chief operations officer at Central Christian College in McPherson, Kansas.

His previous leadership roles and responsibilities include chairman of the U.S. Board for Youth Unlimited Gospel Outreach; board chairman of the River Conference of the Free Methodist Church, USA; trustee of Seattle Pacific University; regent of George Fox Evangelical Seminary; and founding member of the Cascade Food Pantry. Greco served on teams that built more than 30 homes for needy families in the U.S. and Mexico. He also led and coordinated volunteer disaster-relief operations for victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Harvey.

CHRISTOPHER P. HUGHES

"After a 35-year career in the United States Army and now as a business owner, I'm privileged to serve Secretary Esper as his civilian aide for the great state of Iowa," Hughes said. "As the former commanding general of the United States Army Cadet Command and ROTC, I look forward to telling the Army story and educating the citizens of Iowa on the multitude of options that are available for our youth to serve their nation and earn a college education."

Hughes served over 35 years and commanded at every echelon, from platoon to two-star command. After retirement as a general officer, he founded NWC-M&C LLC and is working with Northwest Missouri State University to create a university design for the 21st century. He also serves as the honorary colonel of the 327th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, Air Assault.

Each CASA serves 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.

For more information, please contact Ms. Angela Ritz at 703-545-0525 or angela.k.ritz.civ@mail.mil.