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IN THE MILITARY

Incoming commander
of 25th Infantry led
new combat strategy

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By Gregg K. Kakesako
Star-Bulletin

Major Gen. James Dubik, who will become the new commanding general of the 25th Infantry Division on Nov. 3, has been on the cutting edge of Army technology, overseeing the creation of the Army's two new mobile combat brigade teams at Fort Lewis since 1999.

Under the direction of Army Chief of Staff Gen. Eric Shinseki, the Army has been looking for a medium force that can bridge the gap between the current heavy force, built around the 70-ton M1 Abrams tank, and the rapidly deployable 82 Airborne Division and Ranger battalions.

"We're looking for something we don't have today: the protection and firepower of armored vehicles with rapid deployability of light forces," Dubik said in a recent Army magazine interview.

Last week, Dubik, in another interview, said "everything has started on time and on schedule."

Because Army doctrine developed decades ago required a major overseas airport and seaport to receive incoming troops and equipment, the need to develop a new strategy was evident, he said.

The new medium brigades and vehicles would be useful in protecting troops and giving them the lethal power they may require during peacekeeping or humanitarian operations that could turn hostile.

The Department of Veterans Affairs' mobile van will be dispensing flu shots from 9 a.m. to noon Nov. 2, at Queen Liliuokalani Children's Center, 53-516 Kamehameha Highway in Punaluu; and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 15, at United Methodist Church, 91-660 Pohakupuna Road in Ewa Beach.

Those seeking flu shots should bring their VA card or a copy of their discharge papers.

MOVING UP

Fort Shafter: Col. Brian Bowers has assumed command of the Army Reserve's 322nd Civil Affairs Brigade.