Retired U.S. Army Chief of Staff Gen. Eric Shinseki has been named to the board of directors of First Hawaiian Bank.

Shinseki retired from the military in August 2003 after a 38-year career capped by four years as chief of staff, the top uniformed position in the Army.

Born on Kaua'i, Shinseki is the first person of Asian ancestry to lead one of the American military services.

"We are appreciative and proud to add General Shinseki to our family," said First Hawaiian President and Chief Executive Don Horner. "He is a man of demonstrated leadership and integrity."

Shinseki graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and holds a master's degree in English Literature from Duke University. During his Army career, he led troops in combat in Vietnam, where he was wounded twice and had to fight to remain in the service.

He went on to serve in command and staff positions worldwide, leading major commands in Europe and commanding the peacekeeping force in Bosnia.

He has received numerous honors and decorations for his leadership and courage, including the Purple Heart, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star and U.S. Distinguished Service Medal.