Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III announced today the selection of U.S. Navy Rear Adm. John Wade as the commander of Joint Task Force Red Hill. The creation of the Joint Task Force is a commitment by the Department of Defense to safely and expeditiously defuel the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility. Wade will lead the Joint Task Force, in coordination with key federal, state and local stakeholders.

Wade served as the Director, Joint Operations, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command since October 2020 and understands the importance of DoD meeting its commitments to be good stewards of the land and to protect the health of the people of Hawaii. Wade will engage with local, state, and federal government agencies along with other key stakeholders as he assembles his staff and works toward reaching an Initial Operating Capacity for the task force.

Under Wade’s command, the JTF will oversee and implement the defueling of the RHBFSF. Wade will report through Indo-Pacific Command Adm. Aquilino, to the Secretary, which will ensure awareness and support at the highest levels of the Department and as well as provide accurate and timely information to the local community. The Department of the Navy is responsible for the continued monitoring of the drinking water and repairs in preparation for the closure of the Red Hill site.

The Department of Defense remains committed to rebuilding trust with the people of Hawaii, our communities, and with our service members, civilians and their families.

See Department of Defense announcement here:

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3163329/statement-by-secretary-of-defense-lloyd-j-austin-iii-on-the-appointment-of-rear/