The U.S. Army’s 25th Infantry Division, famously known as “America’s Pacific Division” and based at Schofield Barracks, is currently undergoing significant strategic reorientation to prepare for potential future conflicts within the dynamic Indo-Pacific region. This pivotal shift underscores the growing importance of ground forces in an area traditionally seen as dominated by naval and air power, signaling a robust commitment to regional stability and enhanced military capabilities.
A significant milestone in this transformation occurred with the change of command ceremony at Schofield Barracks’ Weyand Field, where Lt. Gen. Matthew McFarlane of First Corps formally transferred leadership to U.S. Army Maj. Gen. James Bartholomees. This solemn occasion marked the departure of Maj. Gen. Marcus S. Evans, whose leadership has been instrumental in guiding the division through its initial phases of adaptation, integrating new technology and innovative thought into continuous readiness generation.
The 25th Infantry Division is at the forefront of the Army’s evolving strategy, which emphasizes smaller, highly mobile, and more powerfully equipped units designed for rapid deployment and impactful operations. This transformation also includes the sophisticated integration of high-tech drones and advanced communication systems, enabling superior reconnaissance and stealth capabilities crucial for modern warfare scenarios in complex environments.
Recent deployments highlight the division’s proactive approach to regional engagement and interoperability. Soldiers from the 25th have participated in intensive training exercises in the Philippines, working closely with local forces amidst escalating regional tensions, testing new tactics and specialized equipment in challenging terrain. Concurrently, elements of the division are in Malaysia, enhancing multinational interoperability alongside Malaysian and Australian troops during exercise Keris Strike 25, a critical step in fostering stronger alliances and combined operational readiness.
Maj. Gen. Bartholomees, who previously served as U.S. Army Pacific’s chief of staff, returns to the 25th Infantry Division with a deep understanding of its unique role and historical significance. While the division previously saw extensive deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan post-9/11, its current mandate pivots sharply towards the Pacific, becoming the vanguard of the U.S. Army’s efforts to bolster alliances and project power in a theater deemed a top priority by Pentagon leaders.
Within broader military circles, the Army’s role in the vast Indo-Pacific has been a subject of considerable debate, given the region’s expansive maritime and aerial characteristics. However, current strategic shifts by Pentagon leadership are realigning the focus from “small wars” to potential major combat operations against technologically advanced adversaries, reaffirming the indispensable role of highly adaptable ground forces in diverse operational environments.
Furthermore, the incoming commander recognizes the critical importance of local community relations in Hawaii, especially as the military faces increased scrutiny regarding its presence and land leases. Maj. Gen. Bartholomees has expressed a strong commitment to connecting with local communities, emphasizing the “kuleana” (responsibility) he feels as the senior commander of U.S. Army Hawaii to foster constructive relationships and ensure mutual understanding and support.
