WASHINGTON (March 22, 2010) -- The newest Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, or CASA, was invested in a ceremony held today at the Pentagon.
James M. Collins was selected by Secretary of the Army John McHugh to represent the state of Washington.
"With this position I look forward to being an official advocate for the Army to business, professional, and government audiences throughout the state," said Collins. "I'm honored to serve and represent the U.S. Army in this new capacity."
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 their regional areas.
"Being a CASA during a time of war is a critically important duty," said Joyce E. Morrow, administrative assistant to the Secretary of the Army, who administered the oath of office to Collins.
Each state and the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands and American Samoa 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.
Originally from Arkansas, Collins served more than 35 years in the Army, both on active duty and in the Army Reserve, retiring as a Major General. His last active-duty assignment was as the Deputy Commanding General and Chief of Staff for I Corps at Fort Lewis, from 2002 to 2005. Additionally, he has 22 years management experience with the Weyerhaeuser Company, most recently serving as Vice President for Procurement & Energy.
He received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville; a Master of Arts in Social Sciences from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash.; and is a graduate of the Army War College and the Joint Flag Officer Warfighting Course.
Collins, who has a long record of public and community service, is a founding board member for Hire America's Heroes, a non-profit corporation dedicated to improving access to corporate jobs for transitioning military servicemembers, veterans and military family members. He currently serves as the President of the Board of Directors for Boy Scouts of America, Pacific Harbors Council, Southwest Washington, and is an active member of three Rotary clubs.
CASAs serve a two-year term without compensation. Terms may be extended to a total of ten years of service, followed by possible appointment as a CASA emeritus. To date, more than 500 individuals have served the Army and the nation as a CASA.
"Our current Soldiers, civilian employees, family members, and Army contractors are doing great work for the nation in this time of war," Collins said. "Their accomplishments are visible examples of our slogan 'Army Strong.'"
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