Public Health Command - Pacific

TRIPLER ARMY MEDICAL CENTER, Hawaii – Sergeant Major (SGM) Phillip R. Tally assumed responsibility of Public Health Command-Pacific (PHC-P) during a formal ceremony held at the Commander's Lanai, Tripler Army Medical Center (TAMC), on September 4, 2025. Colonel Edgardo Ramirez, Public Health Command-Pacific Commander, presided over the event.

The assumption of responsibility ceremony is a time-honored Army tradition, symbolizing the transfer of authority and accountability to a new senior enlisted leader. The passing of the guidon, the unit's flag, from the commander to the incoming Sergeant Major formally announces the transition to the troops, representing the continuity of command.

"As Soldiers, we must maintain a high state of readiness to answer our nation's call," stated Colonel Ramirez during the ceremony. "We need to ensure that we can continue to support our nation in a multi-array operational environment."

SGM Tally, a native of Clayton, North Carolina, completed Basic Training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and Preventive Medicine Occupational Skill Advanced Individual Training at Joint Base San Antonio, Texas. His diverse career includes assignments with the 38th Preventive Medicine Detachment in Yongsan, Korea; Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany; and the 3rd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group at Fort Liberty. He has also served in key leadership roles at Raymond W. Bliss Army Health Center, Fort Huachuca; the 1st Medical Brigade, Fort Cavazos; and the Army Public Health Center. SGM Tally’s deployments include two tours to Afghanistan in support of Special Operations Task Force – Afghanistan, and a deployment to Katy, Texas, for Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. SGM Tally is married to MSG Losivale Tally, who serves as a Preventive Medicine NCO.

“Thank you for the opportunity to serve,” said SGM Tally in his remarks. “It’s an honor to stand with this team and carry forward a mission that protects the force, promotes health, and prevents harm across the Indo-Pacific. I will lead with integrity, listen with humility, and serve with purpose. Together, we will build readiness, strengthen relationships, and rise to every challenge.”

The ceremony commenced with a dynamic performance by the Siva Tau (War Dance) performers: SFC Imo Aieti ** (94th Army Air Missile Defense Command, JBPHH, HI), SFC Terrence L. Sinapati ** (Tripler Army Medical Center, TAMC, HI), SFC Mathew T. Tuinei (225th Combat Support Battalion, Schofield Barracks, HI), SGT Washington P. Ameperosa (94th Army Air Missile Defense Command, JBPHH, HI), SPC Erupi E. Autele (7th Field Artillery Battalion, Schofield Barracks, HI), SPC Aitofele E. Sakaria (14th Armored Squadron, Schofield Barracks, HI), and SPC Duwayne S. Su'esu'e (US Army Law Enforcement Element, Fort Shafter, HI). A Woodwind Quintet, led by SGT Ethan Miller, also provided musical accompaniment. ** Dance Team Lead

TRIPLER AMC – Command Sergeant Major Carmen R. Ross relinquished responsibility of Public Health Command-Pacific at the Commander's Lanai, Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii, on July 14, 2025. Colonel Gregory T. Reppas, Public Health Command-Pacific Deputy Commander, presided over the ceremony. In addition to this ceremony, the audience was able to witness SGM Ross’ lateral appointment to the rank of Command Sergeant Major. A lateral appointment to CSM acknowledges an individual's exemplary leadership skills and performance. It highlights their ability to take on increased responsibilities without the traditional promotion path. Such an appointment recognizes the person’s extensive experience and expertise, crucial for advising the commander and influencing decision-making and operational effectiveness.

A relinquishment of responsibility ceremony holds significant importance in military traditions. It formally recognizes the outgoing sergeant major's dedication and service to the unit. This is a time to honor their achievements, leadership, and the impacts they've made. The ceremony marks the transition of leadership and responsibilities from the current sergeant major to an appointed successor until the incoming sergeant major arrives. It symbolizes continuity and stability within the unit. The ceremony upholds military traditions and ensures that changes in leadership are conducted with respect and formality. It's a way to show the value placed on the role and its duties. Such ceremonies strengthen unit cohesion and morale by publicly recognizing leadership changes and providing a transparent process for these transitions. Overall, this ceremony is a pivotal moment that underscores the roles and dedication of leaders within the military hierarchy.

One of CSM Ross’ favorite quotes “If you don’t like your situation in life, don’t fret or worry-do something about it. Worry less, act more!”

The following Public Health Command-Pacific First Sergeants were present at the Relinquishment of Responsibility: 1SG Ricardo Villareal, VRA, Hawaii; 1SG Ashley D. Survillion, VRA, Guam; 1SG Carlos H. Trujillo, VRA, San Diego; 1SG Milton A. Bridges, VRA, JBLM; 1SG Joshua M. Jones, VRA, Japan, and 1SG Nestor A. Villafane-Sola, VRA, Korea/106th MED DET. MSG Achley N. Lyons was the NCOIC of the ceremony.

One of COL Reppas’ favorite quotes is from John Maxwell who said, “leaders touch a heart before they ask for a hand.” This is no better exemplified than by Command Sergeant Major Ross. The PHC-P Tridents will miss her compassion and presence but look forward to the continued positive impact she will have on our Army.

COL Reppas expressed his gratitude to CSM Ross for her exceptional leadership at PHC-P, over the last year and a half, marked by her commitment to service and readiness. Her exemplary leadership skills and performance to PHC-P significantly impacted the well-being of the military community in Hawaii and throughout the Pacific. PHC-P has been known for maintaining readiness, excelling in competitions, developing leaders, and expanding their operational reach.