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REAR Adm. Tilghman D. Payne on Friday was initiated as commanding officer of Joint Region Marianas. Payne relieved Rear Adm. Paul Bushong of his duties at a change of command ceremony.
Payne received his commission from the U.S. Naval Academy and has since served several off-shore and on-shore assignments. He has received several awards including the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Award, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Award.
“The only way we can continue to do the things that we need to do for your nation’s security is to adopt new innovative and more efficient ways to operate and sustain our forces. These are challenges we must address today to ensure our future viability and I look forward to working together with our military and our local communities and our allies through the region to come up with solutions,” Payne said.
Bushong will take command as U.S. security coordinator of the Israel-Palestinian Authority. He leaves Guam with a nomination for the promotion to Vice Admiral.
In his final speech to Guam, Bushong supported the military realignment to Guam and encouraged Guam leaders to help make it happen, stating: “Before we spend another three years discussing the options for the Marine Corps, it is time for Guam leadership to step up and lead. It is time to tee up your mulligan and get this buildup back on track.”
