HIRONO COMMENDS NOMINATION OF ST. ANDREW’S PRIORY GRADUATE, FORMER AKAKA STAFFER TO DOD LEADERSHIP

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mazie K. Hirono today applauded President Obama's nomination of Hawaii-raised Debra Wada to be Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs at the Department of Defense:

“I commend President Obama for nominating Debra Wada to serve as Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs at the Department of Defense. Ms. Wada’s extensive background and professional experience on issues of national defense make her a strong nominee. Ms. Wada’s ties to Hawaii and her understanding of the military will be beneficial as the Army faces many critical issues related to its force structure comprised of active duty, National Guard, Reserve and civilian components. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I look forward to working with her upon confirmation.”

Born in Honolulu, Debra Wada serves as a professional staff member on the Subcommittee on Military Personnel for the House Armed Services Committee, a position she has held since 1999. Ms. Wada served as the lead staff member for the Subcommittee and also served as Deputy Staff Director for the full committee. She served on both House and Senate staff for U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka, acting as the Senator’s principal aide on national defense, veterans’ affairs, maritime issues, education, Social Security and welfare. Ms. Wada also served as a Legislative Affairs Specialist for the National Park Service. Ms. Wada graduated from St. Andrew’s Priory in Honolulu and received a B.A. from Drake University.