Sen. Hirono and Gen. Dunford Discuss North Korea Threat

General Joseph Dunford and Senator Hirono. Photo courtesy of Sen. Mazie Hirono’s office.

Sen. Mazie K. HIrono and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford recently met to reaffirm continuing strong support for military resources in Hawai‘i in light of the escalating threat posed by North Korea. General Dunford also talked with Hirono on his recent visit to three Asian countries neighboring North Korea, in addition to his upcoming nomination hearing.

“Through recent meetings with the leaders of China, Japan, and South Korea, General Dunford has taken an important step to develop a unified diplomatic and economic response, as well as a strong military deterrent, to ongoing challenges in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region,” said Sen. Hirono. “I look forward to continuing our dialogue as the Senate moves forward to address military priorities for Hawai‘i and the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.”

Sen. Hirono questioned General Dunford during the personal meeting on efforts to improve military readiness and prevent incidents such as the recent Naval collisions in the region and the Army Black Hawk helicopter crash off Keana Point. General Dunford also discussed the administration’s commitment to placing an advanced defense radar in Hawai‘i.

General Dunford’s confirmation is set for later this month, September 2017. General Dunford was first nominated to the position by President Obama and was unanimously confirmed by the Senate in July 2015. If reconfirmed, he will serve a second two-year term.