Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Visits Naval Station Pearl Harbor

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael A. Lantron, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Marine Corps Gen. Peter Pace, visited more than 500 military personnel assigned to commands throughout the Pearl Harbor area Aug. 17 for an all hands call at Sharkey Theater on Naval Station Pearl Harbor as part of his tour of military bases on the island of Oahu. The visit was part of Pace’s tour of military bases to thank military personnel for all they have done during his 40-year military career.

“I have come a long way to say what is most important – thank you,” said Pace. Through his hour-long speech and response to questions, Pace regularly spoke on his admiration for the men and women who serve the country and their role in how the country operates. “Your job is important. One percent of the people in America, including yourselves, are protecting the other 99 percent,” said Pace. “What you do here every day maintains the peace and stability in the Pacific.” Following the all hands call, Pace shook the hand of every person who attended the event and presented them with an official coin.

“Having him shake everyone’s hand was one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen,” said Electronics Technician 3rd Class Brandon Sharp, assigned to Naval Station Pearl Harbor. “It was great to see him bring all of the branches together in one place.” Pace took the position as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in September 2005 and will visit bases worldwide to show his appreciation of military personnel prior to being relieved by the current Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Mullen.