Admiral’s Visit Showcases the PMRF Team

Rear Adm. Collins talks with Deputy Public Works Officer Thomas Nizo about PMRF’s cultural preservation efforts.

On Dec. 10-11, Rear Adm. Brad Collins, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii, visited PMRF for the first time as part of his tour of installations under his command. The admiral made a point of asking Sailors of all ranks how Navy Region Hawaii could better support the team at Barking Sands.

His touch points with leadership involved briefings on the base’s unique multi-domain (land, sea, air, space) testing capabilities, PMRF’s involvement with the local community (career days, STEM events, and emergency response), and infrastructure (such as the Mānā Well).

He also spoke with enlisted Sailors about their needs and met with the PMRF housing team and Master-at-Arms Seaman Emily Turner to check first-hand on the quality of living quarters for junior enlisted at PMRF.

Lastly, Rear Adm. Collins heard from civilian staff on natural resource preservation efforts and the cultural importance of parts of the base, such as the Lua Kupapa‘u O Nohili (crypt). PMRF Cultural Resources Manager and Archaeologist Tara Del Fierro and Deputy Public Works Officer Thomas Nizo explained the history of the crypt and memorial site and how the Navy works to preserve PMRF’s cultural resources. These connections reinforce PMRF’s commitment to its community, promote mutual understanding, and strengthen relationships between the military and local officials and organizations.

Rear Adm. Collins discusses enlisted housing conditions with Master-at-Arms Seaman Emily Turner and PMRF staff.

Rear Adm. Collins, who assumed command of the region in August, started his Navy career in 1992 and most recently served as Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Central (EURAFCENT), where he led shore operations to support more than 18,000 Sailors, Marines, family members, and retirees across nine regional military installations.