The Future of the Asia-Pacific

This is an Archive of a Past Event

For decades, American power in the Asia-Pacific has sustained a geopolitical order that has brought stability and prosperity to the entire region. But, what does the future hold? The rapidly changing balance of power and persistent security threats presents increasing demands for American leadership. In turn, we increasingly look to our allies and partners to play a more active role. If the Indo-Asia-Pacific hopes to continue the economic miracle of the past 40 years, we must embrace a new engagement strategy that prioritizes economic sustainability, multilateral diplomacy and a security architecture based on a rules-based international order that provides assured access to the shared domains.

Admiral Samuel J. Locklear, III is a 1977 graduate of the United States Naval Academy.

His career as a Surface Warfare Officer includes assignments aboard USS William V. Pratt (DDG 44), USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), USS Callaghan (DDG 994), and USS Truxtun (CG 35), culminating in command of USS Leftwich (DD 984).  Subsequent command assignments include Commander, Destroyer Squadron TWO, Commander, NIMITZ Strike Group, Commander, U.S. THIRD Fleet, and Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe, U.S. Naval Forces Africa, and Allied Joint Force Command Naples.

Ashore, he served as Executive Assistant to the Vice Chief of Naval Operations, the 78th Commandant of Midshipmen, United States Naval Academy, Director, Assessment Division (OPNAV N81), Director, Programming Division (OPNAV N80), and as Director, Navy Staff. 

He is a 1992 graduate of the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, and holds a master’s degree in Public Administration from the George Washington University.

Adm. Samuel J. Locklear is the Commander, U.S. Pacific Command, Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii.

His personal decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal with one gold star, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with four gold stars, Bronze Star Medal, and numerous individual, Campaign and Unit awards.

This event is co-sponsored by the Center for International Security and Cooperation and the Walter H. Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center.