Shinseki to retire

The U.S. Army Chief of Staff, Kaua’i native Gen. Eric K. Shinseki, will retire next month, according to his media advisor.

Lt. Col. Michael Negard confirmed that Shinseki, a Kaua’i High School graduate and son of Fudeko Shinseki of Lihu’e and the late Tomotsu Shinseki, is scheduled to soon make one last trip to Hawai’i while still in uniform.

Referred to as CSA (Chief of Staff Army), Shinseki is scheduled to retire on Wednesday, June 11, Negard confirmed.

Shinseki assumed duties as the 34th Army chief of staff in June of 1999, continuing a long Army career that included two tours of duty in Vietnam, over 10 years of service in Europe, and time spent at Schofield Barracks on O’ahu.

After graduating from Kaua’i High School, Shinseki attended the U.S. Military Academy, graduating in 1965 with a bachelor’s degree. He also holds a master’s degree in English literature from Duke University.

Among his many medals and citations, Shinseki won a Purple Heart and Bronze Star.

There was no word on his post-Army plans for Shinseki and his wife Patty.