DCG Recognizes USAG Hawai'i Professionals for Outstanding Contributions

WHEELER ARMY AIRFIELD, Hawai‘i – The Deputy Commanding General of Installation Management Command, Maj. Gen. James Smith, visited U.S. Army Garrison Hawai‘i recently, highlighting the garrison’s exceptional contributions to Army readiness in the Pacific. The visit, filled with key engagements, began with discussions among leaders and culminated in Maj. Gen. Smith recognizing five outstanding employees for their remarkable efforts in advancing the garrison’s mission.

During a coin recognition ceremony at Leilehua Golf Course, Maj. Gen. Smith praised the professionalism and dedication of the garrison workforce.

“This group represents the miraculous things this garrison achieves daily,” he said.

The honorees included:

1. Ms. Jen Fisher, Real Property Counterpart Officer, who led her team through extensive property audits, contributing over 500 hours of overtime. Her efforts directly enhance the sustainability of garrison operations.

2. Mr. Mike Bormann, Training and Services Manager, who spearheaded the most successful Hiring Our Heroes career summit of 2024, resulting in more than 1,246 job offers to soldiers, veterans, and family members.

3. Mr. Pete Woolsey, Installation Operations Center lead, recognized for revolutionizing communication strategies, ensuring seamless operational alerts and messaging across the garrison.

4. Firefighter Gabe Moreno, Wildland Firefighter, celebrated for earning certification as an Incident Commander and managing over 11 critical fire incidents, bolstering the safety and readiness of Army installations.

5. Jake Faber, Environmental Technician, commended for his innovative work at the Seed Lab and contributions to the garrison’s environmental sustainability efforts.

Maj. Gen. Smith expressed heartfelt gratitude to the honorees.

“You embody what it means to go above and beyond, ensuring our installations remain operationally ready and resilient,” he said.

The visit also included an aerial tour of USAG Hawai'i’s facilities and training areas, showcasing the garrison’s broad scope of operations. Highlights included stops at the Water Well Facility, the Wildland Fire Station, and the Seed Lab, where the DCG was briefed on initiatives to support sustainable resource management and enhance Army readiness.

At each stop, Maj. Gen. Smith emphasized the strategic importance of Hawai‘i’s position in the Indo-Pacific and the vital role the garrison plays in supporting the 25th Infantry Division, U.S. Army Pacific, and other units.

In his closing remarks, Maj. Gen. Smith thanked the workforce.

“Your work often goes unseen, but it is never unappreciated. You are the backbone of our success in this region,” he said.

He underscored the importance of continued innovation and teamwork in overcoming resource challenges to ensure the Army remains mission-ready.

Col. Rachel Sullivan, USAG Hawai'i Garrison Commander, expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments and reiterated the garrison’s commitment to excellence.

“Our professionals embody the Army’s values and demonstrate daily why U.S. Army Garrison Hawai‘i is a leader in installation management,” Col. Sullivan said.

The visit not only highlighted USAG Hawai'i's achievements but also reinforced the critical role the garrison plays in supporting the Army’s mission in the Pacific.