FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii – The U.S. Army has a new general to direct training and exercises in the Pacific. He's a two-star general from the Australian Defence Force.
The appointment of Maj. Gen. Richard Burr to be deputy commander for operations at U.S. Army Pacific makes him the first non-American to serve in such a high-ranking position at a command like this.
The move is symbolic of the Army's push to connect more with allies and friendly nations in the Pacific as the Obama administration "rebalances" national defense strategy toward the region.
Burr said his presence tells others the U.S. Army is open to broadening its relationships.
He stands out at U.S. Army Pacific headquarters near Honolulu. His camouflage uniform is brown and green and he salutes holding his palm facing out.
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