Schatz, Hirono Vote to Confirm Debra Wada to Department of Defense Leadership Position

Washington, DC – Senators Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii) and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) voted today to confirm Debra Wada’s nomination to be Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs at the Department of Defense (DoD). Wada was confirmed unanimously by voice vote.

“I join many in Hawai‘i in congratulating Debra Wada on her Senate confirmation to serve as the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs," said Schatz. “With a distinguished career in the House and Senate, Debra understands the unique needs of the Army and our service members.  I’m confident she will do a great job at the DoD and I wish her much success in her new role.”

"I look forward to working with someone who is from and understands Hawaii in this role at the Department of Defense,” said Hirono. “Debra’s extensive national defense background and D.C experience has made her an integral part of the community and her confirmation reflects those relationships. I believe that she will serve with excellence.”

Born in Honolulu, Debra Wada served as a professional staff member on the Subcommittee on Military Personnel for the House Armed Services Committee prior to her nomination. She has held this position since 1999. Ms. Wada served as the lead staff member for the Subcommittee and also served as Deputy Staff Director for the full committee. She served on both House and Senate staff for U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka, acting as the Senator’s principal aide on national defense, veterans’ affairs, maritime issues, education, Social Security and welfare. Ms. Wada also served as a Legislative Affairs Specialist for the National Park Service. Ms. Wada graduated from St. Andrew’s Priory in Honolulu and received a B.A. from Drake University.

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