Pane Mai Question: 3/19/2025 “Green and Blue”

Posted on Mar 19, 2025 in Ask the TAG responses

Question for CSEL

So the CSEL is supposed to take care of both the enlisted Army and Air, all we see is the same issue from a previous issue Army CSEL who only took care of his HIARNG friends or a certain unit. From our side, he is similar to the previous <male> CSEL who was only pushing to promote or take care of his friends and some Army units.

When are we going to see some improvements from the Air side? We have a lot of complaints too that should not be on a Pane Mai posting.

Pane Mai is a waste of time. The CSEL should be listening to issues and finding out the entire truth.

Answer

Thank you for the criticism. I view this as an opportunity for growth and improvement. You are correct – many things should not be on a Pane Mai posting; they should be discussed with the stakeholders who hold the authority to make the change. While I don’t necessarily agree that Pane Mai is a complete waste of time, as it provided you a vehicle to voice your concern. Pane Mai is also an additional channel for those who do not want to utilize the open-door policy and don’t feel safe coming forward. While most things we receive on Pane Mai can and should be handled within your chain of command, MY door remains wide open.

 

It has been the opinion about past CSELs that “Green” takes care of “Green” and “Blue” takes care of “Blue”. My predecessor, Chief Fox, tried hard to change that. My objective is to learn more about the HIANG and take care of both, equally.

 

I have been to this years’ Launa ʻOle ceremony, recently toured HI-EMA with HIANG’s enlisted leaders, and visited some HIANG units during drill. I am not here only for the HIARNG or to promote and take care of my friends, but if that is the image or perception, help me change that. I always strive to be better.

 

If you have legitimate concerns that aren’t being addressed, contact me directly. You are welcome to come to my office or I can come to you. I am certain that you have my contact information.

 

Again, mahalo for the criticism. Pay me a visit and let’s get to work.