Mike Sablan named Civilian Aide to Secretary of the Army
WASHINGTON, D.C.—During a virtual ceremony on Aug. 18, 2020, at the Pentagon, Secretary of the Army Ryan D. McCarthy appointed Michael Sablan, a resident of Saipan, as a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, or CASA.
McCarthy thanked Sablan for his willingness to serve. “These are unprecedented times and the Army is fortunate to have you in the community interacting with civic leaders, educators and businesses,” said McCarthy. “We have found that there is a dramatic correlation with CASAs and an increase recruitment. CASAs are a valuable asset in the community and help make a difference”
CASAs, a vital part of the Army, promote good relations between the Army and the public and advise the secretary on regional issues.
Each state, the District of Columbia, and the five U.S. territories have one or more CASAs to provide vital links between the Army and the communities they serve. CASAs are usually business or civic leaders who possess a keen interest in the welfare of the Army and their communities.
CASAs serve a two-year term without compensation. Terms may be extended to a total of 10 years of service. The secretary may recognize a civilian aide as a CASA emeritus after 10 years of distinguished service.
“It’s an honor to have been selected,” said Sablan, a graduate of University of California Los Angeles and a licensed certified public accountant who currently serves as vice president of Triple J Enterprises. “The CASA position provides a vital platform to articulate the Army’s mission and strengthen bonds with the local community. As home to proud Americans in the insular areas, the CNMI and the other territories have among the highest rates of military service in the nation. I intend to continue to honor their service by working to strengthen relationships within our military and civilian leadership.” (PR)