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DEFENDER is the Army’s largest annual opportunity to exercise moving personnel and equipment into theater across modes for initial and follow-on operations critical to Large Scale Combat Operations. Led by U.S. Army Europe and Africa, the exercise focuses on the strategic deployment of CONUS-based forces, employment of Army Prepositioned Stock and follow-on exercises demonstrating lethality and interoperability with Allies and partners

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Video by Staff Sgt. Andre Taylor

U.S. Army Pacific Honors Retired Major General Suzanne Vares-Lum with Mana O ke Koa Award

U.S. Army Pacific Public Affairs Office

June 13, 2025 | 4:10

The Mana O Ke Koa Award, which translates to “Spirit of the Warrior,” is presented to leaders who exemplify warrior ethos through service, community building, and steadfast support to Soldiers, veterans, and families.

This year’s recipient, MG (Ret.) Suzanne Vares-Lum, a Native Hawaiian and the first woman of Native Hawaiian descent to attain the rank of major general in the U.S. Army, was recognized for her 34 years of distinguished service across the Active Army, National Guard, and Army Reserve. Following her military retirement, she continued to serve by promoting partnerships and understanding across the Indo-Pacific region through diplomacy, education, and strategic leadership.

Gen. Ronald P. Clark described Vares-Lum as a “community builder” and “comrade in arms” whose enduring leadership continues to strengthen the bond between the Army and the Hawaiian community.

As MG Vares-Lum stated, “The most important part of our capability isn’t gear—it’s people.”

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U.S. Army Pacific Honors Retired Major General Suzanne Vares-Lum with Mana O ke Koa Award