FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii -- General Paul J. LaCamera took command of the more than 85,000 Soldiers of U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC), during an assumption of command ceremony, Nov. 18, 2019.

GEN. LaCamera takes command of the largest Army Service Component Command that encompasses strategic locations in Japan, South Korea, Hawaii, Alaska, Washington State, and Guam. USARPAC is also the land forces component of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

Adm. Phil Davidson, Commander of United States Indo-Pacific, welcomed LaCamera and his family to USARPAC while hosting the ceremony.

Davidson expressed his appreciation and high expectations for LaCamera.

"He has deployed for longer periods than just about anyone serving in the U.S. Army," said Davidson. "Undoubtedly, he will harness his experience to advance the accomplishments of Pacific Pathways. Building on the program that is designed to strengthen not just U.S. Army Pacific, but the Indo-Pacific joint forces presence in the region.

"I have every confidence that you are the right leader, at the right time, for this high performing organization and I look forward to having you as part of this U.S. Indo-Pacific team, he added."

LaCamera spoke about the importance of other services and our partners and allies.

"Just like our current fight, our next one will be joint, interagency, and coalition. Our alliance and partnerships are necessary and provide us the access presence and influence required to win in competition and conflict," said LaCamera.

"My family and I are excited about this amazing opportunity and we look forward to serving alongside you. We are grateful to be back, welcomed here as part of this great ohana, said LaCamera who served as the deputy commanding general of the 25th Infantry Division from 2010-2012.