FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii. – U.S. Army Pacific held a retirement ceremony for Maj. Gen. Clarence K.K. Chinn, Dec. 20 at historic Palm Circle on Fort Shafter, Hawaii. Chinn previously served as the commanding general of U.S. Army South.
USARPAC Commanding General, Gen. Robert Brown, was the host for the ceremony.
“Thank you for what you’ve given to the profession of arms, to our Soldiers, to our Army (and) to our Nation,” said Brown. “We salute you; you’re an amazing leader and all of us are better for knowing you.”
Chinn graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1981, and received his Master’s degree in strategic studies from the Army War College. As an infantry officer he served in a variety of command as well as staff positions in airborne, air assault, light infantry, and ranger units.
Chinn deployed several times over his career in support of Operation Urgent Fury, Operation Just Cause, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
As the commander of U.S. Army South, Chinn partnered with 31 countries in South/Central America and the Caribbean, strengthening relations and building trust, and helped to formally create the Chile Army LNO position at USARPAC.
Chinn, who retires after 36 years of service to the nation, thanked his family and friends, saying it was a privilege to serve.
“It’s been an honor to serve with professionals; Val and I are honored to be able to say we once stood amongst your ranks,” said Chinn. “Though we are transitioning, remember our heart will always be with you. We thank everyone for their friendship, and bless you. Godspeed, until we meet again.”