HIRONO APPLAUDS NOMINATION OF ADMIRAL HARRIS TO COMMANDER OF U.S. FORCES IN THE PACIFIC

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Mazie K. Hirono, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on the nomination of Admiral Harry Harris to the post of Commander of the United States Pacific Command.

“Admiral Harris’ distinguished career of service to our country and strong leadership displayed in his current role as commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet demonstrates that he will excel in his new role as Pacific Commander. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and with the headquarters for U.S. Pacific Fleet Command located in Hawaii, I've had the opportunity to develop a strong relationship with Admiral Harris. His understanding of the importance of our nation’s strategic rebalance to the Pacific will be vital in his new role," said Hirono. “I look forward to continuing to work with Admiral Harris in his new capacity upon confirmation.”

Harris is the highest-ranking Asian-American in the history of the United States Navy and the first to attain the rank of 4-star Admiral. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Harris has served as Commander for the U.S. Pacific Fleet since October 2013.