Over a half century of service honored at celebration of service

Photo By Staff Sgt. Christopher McCullough | Brig. Gen. Robert J. Ulses, U.S. Army Pacific assistant chief of staff of operations, addresses the audience during USARPAC’s celebration of service retirement ceremony at historic Palm Circle, Fort Shafter, Hawaii, March 20, 2015. U.S. Army Pacific's quarterly celebration of service ceremony recognizes Soldiers for their distinguished service to USARPAC and the U.S. as they prepare to transition into new careers. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Chris McCullough, U.S. Army Pacific Public Affairs)  

FORT SHAFTER, HI, UNITED STATES

03.20.2015

Story by Staff Sgt. Christopher McCullough 

U.S. Army Pacific Public Affairs Office

FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii - Chief Warrant Officer 4 Patrick M. Quenga, Master Sgt. Troy Ashley and Sgt. 1st Class Jorge Bermudez were honored during a celebration of service ceremony held in their honor March 20 at historic Palm Circle, Fort Shafter, Hawaii.

The U.S. Army Pacific's celebration of service ceremony recognizes Soldiers for their distinguished service to U.S. Army Pacific and the U.S. as they prepare to transition into new careers.

This was the fourth USARPAC celebration of service with the intent of honoring retiring service members quarterly.

USARPAC's Assistant Chief of Staff of Operations Brig. Gen. Robert J. Ulses officiated the ceremony and spoke to the audience about how Quenga, Ashley and Bermudez careers have impacted USARPAC.

"As is the case for every one of our honorees, their service extends beyond what we witness," said Ulses. "Their reach is broader than what we can see. Their impact is greater than what we may know."

Ulses went on to personally thank each of the honorees for the service they have rendered and the sacrifices they and their families made.

"The challenges you have endured and the impacts that you have made on the lives of Soldiers, civilians and families throughout your 66 years of service will not be forgotten," Ulses said.

Before the honorees individually received their retirement awards, Ulses took one last moment to collectively thank the honorees and let them know that their services and sacrifices were greatly appreciated.

"Your devotion has made us a better Army and your dedication has made us a better USARPAC," Ulses said. "Your presence will be felt for years to come. Your legacy does not end with your retirement. It lives on in all the people you have impacted during your service."

• Date Taken: 03.20.2015
• Date Posted: 03.21.2015 04:12
• Story ID: 157719
• Location: FORT SHAFTER, HI, US
• Hometown: SAN ANTONIO, TX, US
• Hometown: WHEELING, WV, US