Pacific Air Forces’ enlisted corps has nominated its commander, Gen. Gary North, for induction in the command’s Order of the Sword. It is the highest honor that the enlisted corps may bestow. CMSgt. Brooke McLean, PACAF’s command chief, notified North of his nomination on April 4 at PACAF headquarters at JB Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, according to the command’s website. North’s induction ceremony is scheduled for August 26th at the installation. North has been PACAF’s boss since August 2009 and an airman since 1976.
Navy Adm. Samuel J. Paparo Jr. assumed leadership of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, succeeding Navy Adm. John Aquilino at a change of command ceremony, urging action amid China's “increasing intrusive and expansionist claims,” on May 3