PHOTO RELEASE NO. 35-2024

Consul General Fernandez with Adm. and Mrs. Koehler

5 April 2024, Honolulu – Consul General Emil Fernandez congratulated the U.S. Pacific Fleet’s (PACFLT) new commander, Admiral Steve Koehler, following his assumption in the change of command ceremony yesterday at Joint Base Pearl Habor-Hickam.  Presiding over the event were the U.S. Navy’s top officer, Admiral Lisa Franchetti, who flew in from Washington, D.C., and current USINDOPACOM Commander, Admiral John Aquilino, who both warmly welcomed Adm. Koehler and praised the outgoing PACFLT Commander, Admiral Samuel Paparo.

In her remarks, Adm. Franchetti said, “Our true strategic advantage, comes from our strong relationships with our allies and partners, and that our shared values and common interest bind us together.”  The Philippines-United States defense and security engagement remains a key pillar of the two countries’ bilateral relations.

Consul General Fernandez with Adm. and Mrs. Paparo

Adm. Koehler arrived in Hawaii after serving at the Pentagon as the Director for Strategy, Plans and Policy of the Joint Chiefs of Staff since 2022. His previous stints in the Pacific include having command of the 3rd Fleet in San Diego and serving as Deputy Commander to the Pacific Fleet and Director of Operations of USINDOPACOM.  Adm. Paparo served as PACFLT commander for nearly three years and will succeed Adm. Aquilino as the new USINDOPACOM commander next month.  (END)