Maj. Gen. Peter "Skipper" Pawling is the new assistant to the head of the U.S. Pacific Command.

Pawling previously commanded the Hawai'i Air National Guard's 154th Wing before taking his new post Saturday.

He has been a pilot in the Air National Guard for 38 years. In his new position, he will replace Maj. Gen. Vern Miyagi, who is retiring.

As part of Saturday's ceremonies, Pawling made his traditional "last flight" as he piloted a C-17 Globemaster cargo jet. He also won his second star when he was promoted to the rank of major general.

In other Hawai'i Air Guard promotions, Lt. Col. Earl R. Alameida Jr. has been selected as the new leader of the 203rd Air Refueling Squadron, and Lt. Col. Gregory S. Woodrow will head the 204th Airlift Squadron.