State Department of Defense first to respond

Hurricane lniki hits Kauai

Maj. Wayne N. Yoshioka and Staff

The most destructive hurricane to hit the Hawaiian Islands and the third costliest natural disaster in U.S. history ripped through Kauai Sept. 11, packing 145 mile-per-hour winds with gusts of up to 227 that devastated the island and left a path of destruction extending to Oahu’s Waianae coast and the Big Island. When it finally passed, Hurricane Iniki had destroyed or damaged seventy percent of Kauai homes and businesses, more than 560 homes on Oahu and 32 homes on the Big Island.

Although the immediate response and deployment of Hawaii National Guard members and equipment to Kauai was well documented by the news media, the state Department of Defense’s preparation prior to the disaster adds insight into why the emergency response was so quick and effective.

Beginning on Sept. 6, five days before Iniki hit, State Civil Defense began to routinely monitor the storm as it appeared as a tropical depression (TD18E) in the southeastern Pacific Ocean. The storm systemn was more than 1,360 nautical miles southeast of Hawaii. At about 11 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 8, Iniki was upgraded to a hurricane.

At 5:00 p.m., Sept. 10, the storm turned on a northwest track and was reported to be 400 nautical miles south ofLihue. Maj. Gen. Edward V. Richardson, the adjutant general and director of civil defense, State Civil Defense (SCD) and Hawaii National Guard (HING) emergency operating centers (EOCs) on Oahu. By this time, L.t. Col. Myron N. Dobashi, commander of the the 154th Air Control Squadron on Kauai was at the county EOC and Maj. Theodore A. Daligdig III, battalion administrative assistant, readied the Hawaii National Guard’s Kapaa Armory to serve as an evacuation center. Kauai National Guard technicians secured equipment and vehicles and the more than 400 Army and Air Guard members on Kauai were advised to take care of their families. Commanders, key staff and unit members on other islands were placed on standby in accordance with established procedures. Hawaii Air National Guard communications units were also directed to prepare for deployment.

The state coordinated with county agencies to sound civil defense sirens at 5:30 the next morning and decided to close schools and require only emergency essential personnel to report to work. At 1:20p.m., Sept. 11, power went out on Kauai as Iniki swept over the island. A short time later, emergency communication went out between the Garden Isle and Oahu. At the state EOC on Oahu, Maj. Gen. Richardson and Roy C. Price Jr., vice director for SCD, briefed Gov. John Waihee on Iniki’s movement and the state’s contingency plans. The Federal Emergency Management Agency team arrived that same afternoon.

Throughout the evening, fierce winds trailing Iniki prevented aircraft from flying to Kauai. When they finally subsided at 5:30 a.m. the next day, more than 300 Big Island soldiers began deploying to Kauai aboard Air National Guard, Coast Guard and commercial aircraft, including six (6) California combat Air Guard C-130s and four (4) Coast Guard C-130s on loan for the recovery effort. Being the first military forces to arrive on Kauai, Army Guard troops were tasked to provide security and assist Kauai police, while the Air Guard re-established communications and coordinated the air flow. By the end of the day, C-130s had airlifted more than 100 tons of equipment and supplies to Kauai.

That morning, Gov. Waihee and Kauai Mayor JoAnn Yukimura, followed by Senators Daniel K. Inouye and Daniel K. Akaka, U.S. Representatives Patsy T. Mink and Neil Abercrombie, Maj. Gen. Richardson and key staff conducted aerial surveys of the island. The damage wrought by lniki was nearly incomprehensible: thousands of utility poles were down, knocking out Kauai’s electrical and telephone systems; electric water pumps were inoperative, cutting off the water supply to homes; crops lay in ruin; the shoreline and beaches were decimated; 14,340 homes on the island were damaged·

-5,000 severely damaged or destroyed; and the many luxury hotels along the coast were badly damaged. At least 7,000 residents (continued on page 3)

Hurricane (continued from page 1)

were homeless and another 8,000 needed food and water. Three people were dead. The destruction of the Lihue Airport tower’s communication system resulted in the suspension of commercial airline flights into Lihue Airport and left thousands of tourists stranded at evacuation centers.

A National Guard team led by Col Edward L. Correa Jr., deputy commander of the Hawaii Army National Guard, moved to the Kauai County Building to coordinate the emergency response and recovery. More than 380 Army Guard soldiers provided security, safety and courtesy patrols; airmen from the 154th Civil Engineering Squadron and 154th Services Flight served meals from their mobile kitchen trailers; and Kauai soldiers and airmen helped their neighbors, giving them food, water and offering them a place for temporary shelter. At the Kapaa Armory alone, food and shelter were provided for more than 600 residents.

A presidential disaster declaration was signed in the early hours of Sept 12.

The same day, the Air National Guard transported Wilcox Memorial Hospital patients and stranded tourists to Oahu. Forty two patients and more than 1,220 visitors were eventually flown from Kauai. The Guard also continued to transport relief supplies, food and medical personnel.

The sole Guard fatality occurred late Monday, Sept. 13, when Tech. Sgt Dennis C. Dalen of the Hawaii Air National Guard’s 297th Air Traffic Control Flight died in a traffic accident enroute to repairing a generator. Dalen was interred at the State Veterans Cemetery on Oahu with full military honors.

The Hawaii National Guard task force grew to nearly 1,300 troops with the Sept 14 arrival of the Army Guard’s 1st Battalion, 299th Infantry, 129th Signal Detachment, 29th Support Battalion, 297th Supply and Service Battalion, 298th Engineer Detachment and 227th Engineer Company and the Air Guard’s 154th Security Police Flight.

Restoring electrical power on the island was a top priority. Col. David Rodrigues, Hawaii Air National Guard chief of staff and vice president of operations for Hawaiian Electric Co., was selected to oversee electricity restoration and deployment of repair crews and equipment Throughout the recovery, the Hawaii National Guard kept its generators running.

Food, ice, plastic sheeting and medical care were in great demand following the hurricane. Soldiers of the 297th Supply and Service Battalion set up and operated relief distribution centers at Lihue, Kapaa, Hanapepe, Kalaheo and Princeville.

Two battalion aid stations were established at the Kapaa and Hanapepe armories. Medical teams augmented military aid personnel by going house-to-house to treat residents. By the end of the month, Guard medics had treated more than 1,000 patients, mostly for minor injuries, cuts and bruises.

The possibility of rain made repairing roofs another priority. Armed with carpentry tools and chainsaws, the 298th and 227th engineers repaired homes for residents unable help themselves.

Gov. Waihee tasked Maj. Gen. Richardson to coordinate the clean-up of public schools on Kauai and to launch “Operation Garden Sweep,” a joint county, state and federal effort to collect and transport household garbage and debris to Kauai landfill sites. Guard and active duty military personnel removed debris, patched roofs and cleaned classrooms at 15 schools throughout the island. On Monday, Sept 21, more than 500 Hawaii Air National Guard members deployed to Lihue to participate in “Garden Sweep.”

In the first three weeks of the emergency and response phase of Operation Iniki, more than 3,000 members of the Hawaii National Guard were directly involved in serving and assisting Kauai county residents.

On Saturday, Sept. 26, the 500 airmen on Kauai for “Operation Garden Sweep” redeployed to their home stations.

That same day, the Army Guard’s 1st Battalion, 487th Field Artillery, deployed to Kauai to replace the 1st and 2nd Battalions, 299th Infantry units and military police in their security missions. Upon their return, Sunday, Sept. 27, the infantry units and military police were greeted by welcome home celebrations with families and friends.

Today, the State Department of Defense continues to work with county, federal and active military organizations to support Iniki recovery efforts.

–1992 August-September Pupukahi pp. 1 &3

Command notes

On behalf of Governor John Waiheeand the residents of Kauai, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the entire State Department of Defense family for your outstanding performance before, during and after Hurricane Iniki struck the islands on Sept 11. I am extremely proud of what the department was able to accomplish, specifically, the emergency preparation, response and recovery assistance provided to the victims of that devastating storm. Many of you worked around-the-clock either on Kauai, Oahu’s Waianae coast, at State Civil Defense, Hawaii Army or Air National Guard headquarters or at unit armories/facilities in support of our efforts. Other employees in the department shouldered the day-today responsibilities in your absence as did the thousands of family members who supported our people at home during this, the most intensely demanding state mission in our history.

Hurricane Iniki has already been recorded as the most destructive storm to hit Hawaii and the third most costly natural disaster in U.S. history. Our success in meeting the numerous requirements throughout this period is a culmination of many factors.

First, and possibly the most important, was the proactive nature of the actions we took before the hurricane hit. As the article on page one of this issue of the pupukahi notes, we followed the storm system from Sept. 6 when it first appeared as a tropical depression to its being upgraded to a hurricane, Sept. 8. When Iniki turned on a northwest track toward Kauai and Oahu, Sept. 10, we activated our emergency operating centers, tracked the progress of the storm with our two radar sites, prepared our vehicles and equipment, and had units on Hawaii and Maui on standby alert. On Sept. 11, Governor Waihee approved our recommendation to sound our civil defense sirens, close schools, and have only emergency essential employees report to work. Lt Gen. John B. Conaway, chief, National Guard Bureau, offered six California Air National Guard C-130 aircraft and mobile communications equipment for our use. Rear Admiral William C. Donnell commander, 14th Coast Guard District, volunteered four more C-130 aircraft.

As the hurricane approached Kauai and Oahu on Sept. 11, we pre-positioned aircraft and equipment, notified our troops and were ready to deploy them and their equipment as soon as weather permitted.

A second factor was the State’s leadership during the initial response and recovery phases. Governor Waihee provided the leadership and guidance to ensure the State did everything possible to support the County of Kauai and help residents during the emergency response and recovery phases. He also tasked me to coordinate the cleaning and repair of public schools and to launch “Operation Garden Sweep,” a joint effort to clean Kauai for recovery and public health reasons.

The third factor was the teamwork demonstrated by all levels of the county, state and federal governments. No single agency or level of government could have singlehandedly provided all of the support and resources required for a disaster of this magnitude. All of the leaders involved in the effort recognized this early on and cooperated fully toward the common goal of being responsive to the needs of Kauai’s people. This spirit of cooperation and teamwork enabled us to deploy and position all available assets in a timely and efficient manner. I thank Mr. Wallace Stickney, director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Lt. Gen. Johnnie Corns, commander of the U.S. Army Pacific, for their outstanding support.

It is also important to remember that all of the actions we took before, during and after Iniki struck Kauai were based on lessons learned from previous disasters and emergency response exercises. The training we have done in civil defense has paid off and we will continue to refine our plans and conduct training to be proactive and to provide a rapid response to all disasters.

Each of you made significant contributions to our total effort. You should be proud of your monumental achievements and take pride in the professional manner in which you accomplished these assignments. Again, mahalo to all of the soldiers, airmen, civilians and family members of the State Department of Defense. You have all done an incredibly outstanding job and truly deserve the praise andgratitude of the entire state.

–1992 August-September Pupukahi pp. 2

In Memoriarm

Tech. Sgt. Dennis C. Dalen, 46, died on Kauai while assisting in Hurricane Iniki recovery efforts, Sept. 14. Dalen, better known as “Cliff,” was killed in a vehicular accident enroute to repairing a generator. A second airman received minor injuries.

Dalen was an electrical power production technician with the 297th Air Traffic Control Flight stationed at Naval Air Station Barbers Point, Oahu. A dedicated military man, he served on active duty and with the Air Force Reserve before joining the Guard in 1974. He became a full-time Guard technician in 1978.

Dalen was born in Oakland, Calif., and moved to Hawaii with his family in the mid 1950s. He graduated from lolani School in 1965.

The Hawaii National Guard extends its deepest condolences to Sgt. Dalen’s wife, Yong Sun, the Dalen family, and Oiffs many friends.

–1992 August-September Pupukahi pp. 7

Airmen help elderly residents

Story and photo by 2nd Lt. Charles Anthony

201st Combat Communications Group Operation Garden Sweep in the aftermath of Hurricane Iniki was a massive, coordinated effort of manpower, muscle, sweat and machines. From Sept. 20-28, more than 5,000 active duty Army soldiers, Marines, and Army and Air National Guard personnel hauled away 5,000 truckloads of storm debris from Kauai neighborhoods. Lihue took on the look of a town under military occupation, as 2 1/2-ton trucks and other vehicles criss-crossed from one subdivision to another.

But no where else on Earth could such an “occupation” be accepted with so much aloha from the local residents and be as rewarding for the military personnel involved. Everywhere they went on Kauai, the soldiers, Marines and airmen received warm smiles, cold drinks, kind words of thanks, waves and handshakes from the local folks.

Although the clean-up effort was a massive undertaking, perhaps one of the best examples of the aloha spirit could be found by following a work crew of 10 men from the Hawaii Air National Guard’s 201st Combat Communications Group.

Senior Master Sgt Al Freitas from Maui’s 292nd Combat Communications Squadron saw the need to help the elderly victims of “Iniki” who couldn’t handle the tough physical workload. On two consecutive mornings, Freitas organized a group of volunteers from the afternoon shift who would spend their free time in the mornings helping others.

The first stop one morning was an elderly care home, where about 45 minutes of yard work was enough to make the property look almost as neat as before the storm. Next it was on to the home of Mrs. Miyaji, a widow who weathered the hurricane alone. Her house sustained minor damage compared to many, but a large tree in her backyard had been knocked over and needed to be removed. Two 201st CCGP volunteers fired up a couple of chainsaws and cut the tree into manageable pieces while others hand carried load after load of logs and branches to the truck. A few streets over, part of the roof from Mr. Hamamoto’s house had been blown into his backyard. Piece by piece the roof portion was lugged away by the 201 st volunteers. Next door, an 82-year old widow said Hurricane Iwa had run away with her roof–she said she was lucky this time because only the front of the house was damaged and the yard was a tangled mess of branches and dead shrubs. “We’re all so grateful. You folks have done a tremendous job,” she said after her yard had been restored to its pre-hurricane condition.

Only time prevented the airmen from going door to door to every house in that neighborhood. Before they knew it, the morning was over and their spare time was up. The airmen had just finished four hours of hard work and the rest of their day would consist of a quick M-R-E lunch, whenever and wherever they could squeeze in a break, and more manual labor until dusk. They were hot, grimy and still sore from the day before, but they felt great knowing that their efforts meant so much to people who had lost so much in the hurricane.

–1992 August-September Pupukahi pp. 10

Iniki

It’s been almost ten years since the Hawaiian islands have been hit by a hurricane. On the 23rd of November 1982, selected HIANG members were ordered to active duty to prepare for the arrival of Hurricane lwa. It arrived as predicted, and the island of Kauai, including our own assets. received considerable damage. The HIANG was there to help in the relief and recovery. We were hoping it as the last. It seems like only yesterday.

On Friday afternoon, the 11th of September, the HIANG was alerted once again to prepare for Hurricane lniki. What we thought was another “serious” one that would pass us down south started heading our way. This time it was a 300-mile-wide hurricane, and it was headed right towards us with sustained winds of 145 miles per hour and gusts lo 180 miles per hour. We were hoping and praying it would take the usual northwesterly direction, if not westerly. It didn’t.

At the last minute, the hurricane shifted to the north, and the sirens went off. Hurricane lniki mostly spared Oahu, but, again, our next door neighbor, Kauai, was hit. The eye of the storm went directly over the garden island. Kauai was devastated. Niihau received some damage, as well.

The Hawaii Air National Guard is there, once again, to help with relief and recovery. With the help of our cala­bash cousins in California, Air Guard aircraft are continu­ously going back and forth from Kauai bringing supplies from and passengers to Oahu. Hickam Command Post, for one, has been humming.

We’re eating MREs today because the 154th Services Flight was tasked last weekend to provide meals in Princeville. The 154th Security Police Flight and the 154th Civil Engineering Flight were also deployed. And, of course, the 201st CCGP was activated to provide power and communications support. Now, volunteers are being called for to assist in the cleanup of Kauai.

As if Kauai didn’t suffer enough last time, this time, everything is needed to bring the island back to life. Power lines, telephone lines and water has to be completely restored, not to mention homes that have to be rebuilt, and lives that have to be restored.

The Garden Isle looks like a war zone. Lihue airport looks like Da Nang, Viet Nam, with C-Ss, C-130s, C-141s, and helicopters literally touching and going around the clock, airlifting passengers, and bringing in fresh water, food and desperately needed supplies.

At last count, our own HIANG C-130 crews flew 43 sorties from Saturday, September 11 through Thursday, September 17. They hauled 96 tons of equipment and supplies, and carried 532 passengers. Our hats are off to their great effort, and to all the guys that humped day and night loading and off-loading the aircraft, assisting the passengers, and getting the supplies out to where they were needed.

Local members of the 154th Composite Group ex­ pressed their gratitude that the damage expected on Oahu never happened. We all feel terrible for the people on Kauai, especially our ohana. We are well aware that the same thing could have easily happened to us. This is indeed a time when you realize what’s really important to you. Now is the time to help our neighbors as best we can.

–1992 September Kukailimoku pp.1

154 COMPG Reacts to Hurricane Iniki

With the expected arrival of Hurricane Iniki on Friday, September 11, response within the 154th Composite group began on September 10 with the securing of HIANG aircraft and equipment. A 24-hour Operations Center was established on September 11, at the 199 FS Combat Alert Center to corrdinate all necessary actions related to the hurricane.

At 8:45 PM on September 11, the 154 SVF was activated to provide a Mobile Field Kitchen Team to support relief efforts on Kauai, and on September 12, left with 22 members.

On Saturday, September 12, airlift to Kauai was initiated by Coast Guard and HlANG C-130 aircraft. these were later joined that afternoon by 6 California ANG C-130’s. Palletizing and loading of equipment and supplies were accomplished by the 203 ARS with many volunteer guardsmen supporting the effort. Additional airlift support was provided by Air Force C-141s and C-Ss.

On Sunday, September 13, 5 members of the 154 CES departed for Kauai with tents, generators, cots, and lights to support the 22-member contingent from the 154 SVF.

On September 13, additional HlANG manpower requirements were established to provide ANG liaisons to control centers at the State Civil Defense, HQ PACAF Crisis Action Team (CAT), 15th ABW Air Mobility Command Center (AMC), Hickam Air Passenger Terminal, Hickam Air Cargo Terminal, and later to the JTF Mobility Control Center at USARPAC. this requirement will continue throughout the relief effort.

At 7:00 PM on September 13, the 154th Security Police Flight was called to state activity duty Twenty eight guardsmen departed for Kauai on September 14 and wre tasked to provide area security at Lihue Airport.

On September 14, airlift operations were transferred from the 203 ARS to the 15th ABW AMC.

At 4:00 PM on September 16, the 154th Civil Engineering Squadron was activated, and 86 members of the unit departed for Kauai on September 18.

On September 19, a force of 60 air guardsmen from the Composite Group, who received election worker training at Hickman AFB, were flown to kauai to supplement civil precinct workers at various primary election sites.

URGENTLY NEEDED – Presently, we are looking for 500 air guardsmen to volunteer to help in the cleanup effort in Kauai. These individuals will be will be departing for Kauai Monday September 21 and scheduled to return on Sunday, September 27. Your assistance will be appreciated!

TODAY – The Kauai relief effort currently underway has had a major impact on 154th Composite Group scheduled activities, and necessitates the following changes:

1. The September 19th Air Defense Exercise has been cancelled and will be rescheduled to October 3rd.
2. The 154th COMPG Family Day scheduled for September 20th is cancelled and will be rescheduled to a future date to be determined.
3. The Operational Readiness Evaluation (ORE) scheduled for October 1 thru 8 is cancelled and will be rescheduled to a future date to be determined.

Remember, the Operational Readiness Index Inspection (ORI) is scheduled for the December and January UTAs until further notice.

Finally, I wish to extent my personal THANK YOU for your effort in continuing to preform your duties as a member of the 154 COMPG in an exemplary manner when being tasked to the maximum in the support of the relief effort. MAHALO NUI LOA.

–1992 September Kukailimoku pp.2

Pastors Perspective

Hurricane lniki inflicted so much destruction to Kauai that it will take a long time before things get back to normal. The damage was so extensive that many people might have more questions than there are answers. Regardless, many of those questions must be asked. Some of the questions might be; (1) Why me? (2) Who’s responsible for what has happened? (3) When will we see “the light at the end of the tunnel”? (4) Will a disaster strike again?, and (5) Where do we go from here? Many who were hit the hardest will need to come to grips with reaffirming what is important to them. The following are thoughts that I have been processing in my mind.

”Why me?” is a question often asked. There are no adequate answers. In this particular case, the weather people said that it’s all by chance that Kauai was directly hit. This seems unfair. Kauai had more than its share during Hurricane Iwa about ten years ago. It’s unfortunate. I was hoping and praying for the best for my friends on kauai, especially my 150 ACWS and 154 TCS friends.

We sometimes ask this same question when faced with other unfortunate situations. But the more we’re aware of other people around us, the more we see that other people have their share of problems, also. They often go through different types of hurricanes at their own appointed times. Emotional hurricanes. Spiritual hurricanes. Financial hurricanes. Other hurricanes.

When we see this, we then realize that we’ re in the same boat. We belong to each other. What matters more than “why me?” is how we together respond to a situation like lniki.

Who’s responsible? Some people blame mother nature, others blame weather patterns due to how we have treated our environment and a few blame God. Personally, I doubt that God wanted this to happen. Kauai people are among the friendliest and nicest people around anywhere. Why would God want destruction upon them? In the midst of unanswered questions, there is a Scripture that applies here: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” I think we will see the “light at the end of the tunnel” when we love God and our neighbors. Loving our neighbors means helping them in times of need. Hope becomes real when we see people pulling together.

There’s no guarantee that our paradise in Hawaii will be disaster-proof. After recent Hurricane lwa in ’82. and now Iniki, we must realize that it can happen again. big lesson from this hurricane is the value of family and friends. Perhaps, we have stressed the importance of material possessions more than is good for us. Family and friends need to be stressed more.

So, where do we go from here? Let’s appreciate and improve our relationships with our family and friends. Here’s our chance to try to make good things happen out of a bad situation. Here’s a chance for those who have to share with those who have not. Let’s help one another. Especially now, we need God and one another. Let’s hang tough together.

–1992 September Kukailimoku pp.3

CAMS News and Views

September has traditionally been a month to reflect on the many accomplishments attained during the year. September has been the month we’ve held our annual Family Day festivities, which served to bring our families together to renew friendships as well as make new friends. However, the forces of nature are unrelenting as was witnessed in the last four weeks. Hurricane Andrew slammed into Florida and Louisiana with so mud, force it caused billions of dollars in damage.

The major television networks broadcast much of the devastation to the world, but we in Hawaii were halfway around the world. Not to worry, right? Alas, tropical storm lNIKl was swirling around the Pacific, coming at us at a slow pace. Suddenly, ‘INIKI’ decides to get nasty as wind velocity starts to increase dramatically. What was a tropical storm is now a full blown hurricane sort of heading away from us. Great news as it continues to move away. but then the eye turns and heads in a northerly direction. Evacuation orders are given as a precaution, gas stations are in gridlock and supermarkets are suddenly filled to capacity with folks trying to stock up on essential items. The eye of ‘TNIIKI’ roars into northwest Kauai, destroying everything in it’s path. Waianae, on the leeward coast of Oahu, suffered the most damage on this island. As we watched the local news, one would think that the news station was broadcasting re-runs at what you’ve got, look at what you think you need, decide how you’re going to obtain and store the items, and every now and then, practice your evacuation procedures. The people on Kauai and from Waianae have expressed their desires on what items they really need to put their lives, and homes, back together. It would behoove us to list down all those items and see if we have enough of those same items for our own homes so that we can recover and survive. Just a thought!!! Anyway, the Group is currently sponsoring a 154 Composite Group Hurricane lNIKI Relief Fund to collect emergency items for the storm victims this weekend. Collection points are in the Hangar, 199FS (2nd fl), 154 RMS Warehouse and 169 AC&W Orderly Room. Many items are in need ay the ‘ victims’, so please donate from the heart. .. For news of the Squadron … Would like to welcome Sr A. Dwayne Lim as he joins the Weapons Release Shop. Welcome home goes to TSgt. Rodrigo Academia as he recently returned from Kadena AB (Japan) and TSgt. James Chun as he returns from the NCO Academy. Welcome to the world goes to Aaron Abilla as he joins mom and dad, Wendy and TSgt. William Abilla … Congrats to our newest promotee, SSgt. William Boyer. Wear ’em with pride … MSgt. Lester Ho has a PME news flash. Beginning 1 Jan 1993, only technical sergeants may attend the NCO Academy in residence. The school will not accept staff sergeants after January. See Lester for more information … Make sure you’ve bought your tickets for the CAM Sq Recognition Banquet on 9 Oct. That’s a 3-day holiday, so stay in Waikiki and enjoy the weekend … And don’t forget to get your tickets for the HIANG Awards Banquet to be held at the Hickam Officers Club on 20 Nov … Although the ORE has been postponed, we still need you all to be focused on the upcoming ORI. See your supervisor for information … As we close fiscal year 1992, I’d like to thank the Public Affairs Office for their outstanding support this year. We are constantly ribbing each other about the length of my news articles, but they’ve always been able to support the CAM Squadron. Mahalo and Aloha for your support … Til next issue, “Reflect upon your present blessings – of which every man has many – not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.”(Charles Dickens) ……… fhiga

–1992 September Kukailimoku pp.4

Hawaii National Guard units deploy home

By Spec. Jan T. Tanimoto

The last off-island Hawaii National Guard members assisting in Hurricane Iniki recovery efforts returned home Nov. 6.

Before leaving Kauai, a consolidated team of Guard soldiers and airmen joined Kauai County maintenance crews and the active military in “Operation Final Sweep.” Approximately 913 truckloads of debris were collected, including debris from the rivers and streams in Hanalei, Koloa and Anahola. The troops also continued food and supply distribution, temporary roof repair for the elderly and security patrols, from Oct. 1 to Nov. 6.

Twenty-six soldiers remain on Kauai to account for, clean, repair and return equipment to home stations. The soldiers were scheduled to wrap-up their duties by Nov. 20. Two airmen are stationed at the full service center and the Lihue disaster assistance center. They will remain on active duty until the Federal Emergency Management Agency hires a temporary civilian staff.

More than 400 soldiers and airmen from Hawaii Army and Air National Guard units on Kauai, many of whom suffered severe losses form Hurricane Iniki, will stand down to take care of personal matters.

–1992 October-November Pupukahi pp. 1

Command notes

We completed the draw-down of our Hurricane Iniki recovery support on Kauai, Nov. 6. During the final stages of the recovery, we assisted the county by providing security, picking up debris, clearing out stream beds, staffing relief distribution centers and performing other projects. We have now redeployed our equipment and vehicles to their home stations for much needed maintenance. The 400 soldiers and airmen on Kauai are standing down to take care of their personal affairs. Many of their homes were severely damaged er destroyed, yet they worked tirelessly alongside their fellow National Guard members to help their neighbors and communities.

It has been a demanding ten weeks for the entire department, starting before Hurricane Iniki hit, Sept 11. We have been able to maintain a hectic pace because of the professionalism, dedication and commitment of our people. Our performance during the emergency response and recovery support phases was outstanding. Operation lniki can go down in history as one of the most successful operations of its kind. We were successful because we worked at it We planned, trained, exercised and executed our operating procedures to near perfection. However, things were not perfect, and we are now critiquing ourselves to make the operation run even more smoothly if and when we have to handle a situation like Hurricane Iniki again.

Although we are far from closing out Operation Iniki, as the stacks of paperwork and detailed accounting process continues, we need to again focus on the challenges we faced before the hurricane. Force structure issues, the military draw-down, defense spending cuts, compliance inspections and unit performance evaluations are still critical issues for the entire National Guard. Since our last issue of the pupukahi, we have elected a new President and a number of new members of Congress. As you know, reviving the economy through decreased spending on military defense will take center stage as we begin the new year. It is incumbent on all of us to maintain our vigil, continue to improve our readiness and validate the mission capabilities of our units through outstanding performance.

The 29th Infantry Brigade (Separate) went through an Inspector General evaluation last month. The inspectors were impressed by our soldiers’ efforts. Brigade units showed improvement in all areas, with special recognition in maintenance and mess operations. We will be working hard throughout this training year to surpass our previous standards.

The Hawaii Air National Guard’s 201st Combat Communications Group is undergoing its unit effectiveness inspection, and the 154th Composite Group will start its operational readiness inspection next month. Both units have traditionally done an outstanding job. However, Hurricane lniki and the ongoing preparations to activate the 203rd Air Refueling Squadron have posed some unique challenges for the Hawaii Air National Guard this year. It is very important that we refocus our efforts and regain the momentum lost because of these challenges. I know that our people will put forth the effort to not only succeed, but to excel in all areas.

November 22-28 is National Week of the Family. The week is set aside to recognize the important roles our loved ones play in our lives and work. I want to especially thank our Family Support Groups, key persons and all family members for the many contributions you have made to our department throughout the year. We cannot do our jobs nor accomplish our goals without your help. All of our families are indispensable partners in our effort to make the State Department of Defense a better place to work, play and prosper.

The 111th Army Band did an outstanding job during recent performances in Fiji and Papua New Guinea. It will perform its popular Christmas concert on Kauai, Dec. 18 and on Oahu, Dec. 20. It is my sincere wish for the entire State DOD family to get together to enjoy the fellowship, count our blessings, and celebrate our many successes throughout the year.

In closing, I want to express my deepest regret over the deaths of Maj. Gen. Kenneth W. Himsel, deputy commanding general for reserve components at FORSCOM, and seven Alaska Army National Guard members in a C-12 crash, Nov. 12. We worked very closely with three of the deceased, Brig. Gen. Thomas C. Carroll, commander, Alaska Army National Guard; Col. Wilfried E. Wood, director of plans, training and mobilization; and Col. Thomas W. Clark, state aviation officer, on many important initiatives. We have a very warm relationship with the Alaska National Guard and they have provided tremendous support to our state, especially during Hurricane Iniki. Our hearts go out to the families, friends and colleagues of these soldiers. They will be sorely missed.

–1992 October-November Pupukahi pp. 2

Guard babies born in hurricane’s wake

Story and photo by Lt. Col. Gregg Kakesako Headquarters, State Area Command

For two Army National Guard soldiers from the Big Island’s 2nd Battalion, 299th lnfanlry, Hurricane Iniki was not just another storm. Spec. Wilbert Kahoonei of Company D missed the birth of his child because he was serving three weeks of state active duty following the hurricane; Pfc. Vernal S. Carpio of Company C was able to witness the birth of his daughter after requesting emergency leave.

Kahoonei’s wife, Darnelle, recalled when her husband’s unit was activated for storm relief duty. “He (Wilbert) looked at me and said, ‘How can I go when you’re pregnant?”‘

“But I know that he likes the Guard .. .in fact, he loves the Guard,” she said. “I told him to go; I would be fine. Now I am glad he was able to go and help those who really needed the help.”

Kahoonei said his wife helped him pack and told him not to worry because her mother would assist her. “She (Darnelle) was really supportive,” he said. “She backs the Guard 100 percent…she understands.”

Hurricane Iniki, the third costliest natural disaster in the nation and the most destructive storm in Hawaii’s history, cut off all communications to Kauai for several days. Kahoonei was unable to call his wife until three days later, after his arrival, Sept. 25. His call found her in the Hilo Hospital delivery room. “I got all excited when the nurse said your husband is calling from Kauai. I just wanted to get it over … and when I got to talk to him I told him Baron had arrived. Baron is my father’ middle name,” she said.

Carpio landed in Lihue several hours after Iniki struck. He was neither prepared for the massive devastation he saw, nor for the three weeks of security detail his company was assigned. That’s because Carpio’s girlfriend, Kristann A veiro, was due to give birth Sept. 2

“Hey, I was told that we would be there five days at ‘max,’ so I wasn’t initially concerned,” Carpio said. “I thought I would be back in time to help my girlfriend.” When it became apparent the Guard would be needed for a longer period, Carpio asked to be sent home early. His request was approved, allowing him to be present for his daughter Kawehi’s birth, Sept. 26.

Carpio says he was glad to have helped Garden Isle residents, even if it was only in a small way. “I think we were able to help the police in the Hanalei area since the potential for looting was high .. .l was glad to be there.”

–1992 October-November Pupukahi pp. 3

Hawaii Air National guard

In the previous issue of the pupukahi, Maj. Gen. Edward V. Richardson expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the entire State Department of Defense family for their outstanding performance before, during and after Iniki.

In this article, I would like to add my personal appreciation to the entire Hawaii Air National Guard family for the outstanding support you gave to the response and recovery operations on Kauai. Your performance was superb and your contributions made a direct impact on the amazing recovery efforts that are going on to return the people of Kauai to some semblance of normalcy.

The whole operation was a team effort that included individuals from every HIANG unit Both the 150th and 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadrons provided invaluable radar information on the location, speed and direction of lniki as it approached our islands. Members of the 201st Combat Communications Group were part of the first forces to land on Kauai with communications equipment and generators to provide power to the water system pumps. This effort was even supported by members of Kauai’s 298th Air Traffic Control Flight, many of whom suffered extensive damage to their own homes.

The first full unit in the HIANG to be activated was the 154th Services Flight with augmentation from the 154th Civil Engineering Squadron (CES). They were activated on the night of Sept 11 and deployed to Kauai the following day to set up a feeding facility. They were followed by the 154th Security Police Flight that was activated and deployed to Kauai on Sept 14 to provide security at Lihue Airport On Sept 18, the 154th CES was activated and deployed to provide various civil engineering services including expert installation of plastic sheeting on the roofs of homes that were damaged by the hurricane. The largest activation took place on Sept 21 when Col. Michael Tice was designated as the HIANG task force commander for Operation Garden Sweep. For this enormous operation, we activated the 201st CCGP headquarters, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, 154th Resource Management Squadron, 154th Mission Support Squadron, 154th Mission Support Flight, and elements of the 154th Tactical Hospital.

Throughout all these operations, many individuals performed necessary support functions on Oahu to ensure our success on Kauai. And all of this took place while necessary day-to-day functions were also being performed.

Some ‘gee whiz’ information includes the fact that our C-130H cargo aircraft was the first to land on Kauai following the hurricane at 7:05 a.m. on Sept 12 and, along with the six C-130s from the California Air National Guard that arrived the same day, flew 78 sorties, moved 173.5 tons of cargo and carried 1,320 passengers in the first two days of operation. As of Nov. 2, ANG aircraft flew a total of 175 sorties moving 426.7 tons of cargo and carried 2,149 passengers. Air Guard members processed 1,064 truckloads of debris and trash from the Lihue area during Operation Garden Sweep, and an additional 591 truckloads during Operation Final Sweep.

My hat is off to all of you. You should be very proud of your contribution to the people of Kauai. Your work at the EOCs, airlift coordination center, joint military control center crisis action team, air terminals, etc., was tremendous and definitely made a difference. Again, mahalo nui loa to all of you!

–1992 October-November Pupukahi pp. 6

Commanders Corner

Hurricane Iniki relief efforts continue. The response of all members of the 154th COMPG called to duty, or volunteering for duty in the wake of the storm was outstanding. My thanks to each and every one of you for answering the call, making the personal sacrifices I know were made, and coming to the aid of the people of Kauai. Our involvement will not be soon forgotten; by them or by us.

Here at home, in spite of the focus on the relief effort, preparation for the upcoming Operational Readiness Inspection of the 154th COMPG has continued. The Operational Readiness Exercise (ORE), a dress rehearsal, is now scheduled for the period November 2 thru 9. Thursday, November 5; Friday, November 6; and Monday, November 9 are designated annual training days for the 154th COMPG. A successful exercise will require maximum participation on those days. We expect the exercise events to mirror as closely as we can predict what’s in store during the inspection in December and January. The annual training requirement for December /January should be limited to Friday, January 8. Key personnel can expect additional annual training requirements to be identified by their commanders.

This has been an extremely busy and demanding year for the 154th COMPG. The upcoming inspection will be the culmination of it all and our opportunity to redemonstrate our potential to HQ Pacific Air Forces. ”THINK OUTSTANDING”, has been our motto. An overall EXCELLENT for the inspection is our goal. I believe it’s attainable, but need everyone’s commitment to do it. Mahalo.

–1992 October Kukailimoku pp. 2

Pastors Perspective

It seems like only yesterday that we were at September’s UTA. Our involvement in Operation Garden Sweep and other relief efforts filled a major portion of the time between last month’s and this month’s drill.

Our 154 Composite Group did such a wonderful job in helping the people of Kauai. The Scripture that says “love your neighbor as yourself” was so superbly lived out. With Operation Carden Sweep, about 500 of our personnel helped clean the Lihue area of trash and debris. A big mahalo to those who worked very hard under the hot sun cleaning up trash and debris (also thanks to those who helped to support the effort).

But actually Operation Garden Sweep was only one of the many parts of our work. Our people were in other areas helping the relief effort. For more than two weeks, our Food Services people were in Princeville feeding thousands of people. The days were long for them. Our Civil Engineers were helping people left and right repairing homes, as well as repairing the 154 ACS roof. Our Security Police people were at the Lihue airport doing an essential job of securing areas. Their presence prevented looting and other criminal activity. And, we must not forget those working behind the scenes at the Group’s area. There were people doing a great job, working overtime, but not seeing the visible results of their efforts. They weren’t fortunate to receive the blessing of someone from Kauai saying a heartfelt “thank you”.

Everyone who helped in the effort on Kauai was blessed by the reception the Kauai people gave us. Kauai people were happy that we were there to show them that we care. They came out to greet our people with water, cold drinks and other refreshments. Some felt bad because they didn’t have anything to give but words of thanks. They didn’t realize that it felt good for us to be able to do something for them, our friends and ohana on Kauai.

The work that needs to be done on Kauai is still great. It will be a while before we all can rest. Currently, there are about 50 volunteers on Kauai at the various distribution centers, Civil Engineers continuing their valuable work, 28 people repairing roofs and our Security Police wrapping up their job well done.

May God richly bless you for helping our friends and family on Kauai. Let’s continue to pray for them because the road to recovery is tough.

–1992 October Kukailimoku pp. 3

For the Family

Thank you for your generosity to the Kauai people. On September’s drill weekend, our 154th Composite Group’s Kauai relief effort called “Hurricane Iniki Relief’ was a success. According to SMSgt. Doug Abe, the cochairman of the project with MSgt. Fred Higa, $662 and more than 5 pallets of non-perishable goods, clothing, propane tanks and many other emergency items were donated by you to the cause.

Special appreciation is also felt for those who volunteered their time to help receive donations at our four collection points within our group. Many or all of the people helping were from our family support groups: Kathie Abe, Elaine Higa, Jocelyn Rayray, Josie Rayray, Pricilla Paulino, Tessie Saito, Marlow DeRego, Laura Hirao, Karen Hirao, Karen Morimoto, Jennifer Higa, Valerie Higa, Vance Higa, Ann Snakenburg, Lennie Calvan, Barbara Yadeo-Petti, Kathy Hudson, Wendy Abe, Carolyn Kuwana, Keris Kuwana, and Kristie Kuewa. Also providing support were TSgt. Dennis Dung, TSgt. Meryle Odgen-Lessard and SSgt. Paul Tanaka. (Hopefully this list of helpers is complete. If we failed to list someone, it’s not intended.)

Much of our donations received will be sent to our HIANG ohana on Kauai. This effort is currently in the works. Since many of the items that the Kauai people need aren’t available on Kauai, we must purchase the items on Oahu before sending them.

Other donations have already been sent. On Saturday, September 26, family support members from our 154 Composite Group sent 600 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to Kauai. Just this past Friday, two truckloads of food and supplies from our collection during last drill were sent to the Food Bank.

Thanks again to those who gave!

Hurricane Iniki probably won’t be the last disaster to hit Hawaii. There likely will be more in the future. Let’s try to be better prepared for the next time. Being a member of a family support group may be a good way to link up and receive help or help others in a disaster situation like Iniki.

If your spouse or family member would like to join a family support group, please contact your unit

–1992 October Kukailimoku pp. 4 & 6

Legal Line

by Maj. James T. Itamura

“Here’s Looking At You, Iniki!” – Views of a Kauaiian

Thursday night, September 10th, I went to sleep planning to go camping the next day. I had absolutely no concern about the hurricane watch I had heard about on the radio.

Friday, September 11th, I awoke at 5:15 am, planning to put in a half-day at the office, then pack up and go camping at Anini beach. As I was brushing my teeth, I heard the wail of sirens. What the heck? The radio says the hurricane will probably hit us. I am incredibly naive, and kind of excited about everything.

At 11 :30 am, it’s still calm: variable breezes, overcast, nothing unusual. We hear that winds are sustained at 145 miles per hour and .3. The hurricane is upgraded to category 5-the TV goes out.

At 12:50 pm, big gusts come and go. At 1:05 pm, the power goes out. At 1 :37 pm, the wind has a sound I’ve never heard before-like an F-15 throttling up for takeoff; windows pulsate, glass louvers, . though shut tight, are bent by the wind, and rain is shooting into the house like it’s coming from a hose. I watch my carport roof start to flap up and down. My big avocado tree and two other full-size trees come . crashing onto the house uprooted. KSSK says Oahu is at .3 and out of danger. I laugh as I hear people call the station asking when their cable TV is going to come back on. I can see two of my neighbors losing their roofs, and I’m wondering what my roof looks like. Debris fills the sky, swirling around like a flock of different-sized birds.

At 5 pm, the wind slows a bit, but is still strong (it must be the eye). I venture out-roof missing some paper; two trees are leaning on the house. I look up the hill and see two new houses missing their top floors, and debris strewn down the hillside. I run to my neighbor’s house. He’s lost half of his roof. “Come on over, Tom,” I called. “Nah, we’re okay; we still have two dry rooms!” He’s nuts, I think to myself. His girlfriend has her bicycle helmet on. I wave to my other neighbor about 75 yards down the road. He looks okay.

At 5:38 pm, the wind picks up again. Typically, the hedges out in front, which were pressed down, pointing west, are now pointing east as the wind comes from the exact opposite direction. At 7:45 pm, no wind; light drizzle. The smell of freshly cut vegetation lingers.

Everyday since then has been bright and sunny. For two days after Iniki hit, we had no water. This was a major concern, even though we loaded up every receptacle we could. Planning toilet flushes became routine (it takes about 3 buckets each!). Each time I ventured out in my car, I took a couple of 5 gallon buckets. Power lines and poles are on the ground everywhere. Some people are picking things out; others just sit in the rubble, obviously dazed.

Now, three weeks later, most of us don’t have electricity. Cold showers in the dark are routine. Ice is still like gold. I never in my life thought I would own a generator, but my sister-in-law sent one from California. Generators are the new status symbol on Kauai, so my refrigerator now makes ice and I have one electric light. I did a load of wash, too! We’re slowly getting back to normal.

Epilogue. I can’t imagine the chaos if the Turks came over to Oahu, instead. Kauai has 50,000 people, and there’s a sense of community there, of helpfulness-standing in lines, letting people make left turns at intersections, helping your neighbor fix his roof, sharing food, lodging, etc. Honolulu has 850,000 people. How could such a city have dealt with . something like that? Anyway, you saw the panic lines at the stores, gas stations, etc., and the traffic jams. Kauai people are pretty good about emergency supplies. I had candles, a propane lantern, an ice chest, some D-size batteries, and a flashlight. Believe me, these items are like GOLD after a hurricane passes because you won’t be able to buy any anywhere!

Give yourself future peace of mind and stock up. Also, I recommend changing over from electric stove to gas.

–1992 October Kukailimoku pp. 7

Group Supports Iniki relief

Hurricane Iniki relief efforts by the 154th Composite Group continue. Members of the 154th CAMS, 154th CES and the 154th SPF are still on Kauai along with members of the 169th ACW assisting in the cleanup and restoration of the Garden Isle.

The 154th Services Flight was activated on Saturday evening, September 11th. On Sunday afternoon, they were airlifted by the California Air National Guard to Kauai to assist with providing food and other needed services at Lihue Airport, Vidinha Stadium, Princeville, Kilauea and Hanalei.

Upon arrival, the troops encountered mass destruction and confusion. Despite living in austere conditions, the flight assisted in security, the transportation of passengers to Oahu, the relocation of food and water and supplies to various warehouse locations and feeding hundreds of people. The people on Kauai were so grateful to see the Air National Guard there. The looks and expressions of gratitude were worth more than money or awards, according to TSgt. Camara and his fellow food service specialists.

A lot of food was processed, inspected and cleaned before it was even prepared. With the assistance of local vendors and restaurants, approximately 1,000 breakfasts and 1,000 to 1,200 dinners were prepared and served within a week.

After 9 days of dining with MREs, the local community and restaurants donated a 65-pound pig, and 20 pounds of beef, chicken and shrimp to provide the troops with a luau for their efforts. SVF personnel served the meal to 72 military members and 40 civilians.

Thanks to their excellent training and equipment, along with their strong sense of pride and duty, the mission of the 154th Services Flight was a tremendous success. On September 25, 1992, all personnel came home, and today, we’re eating some real food! You don’t believe me? Check the menu. Thanks, guys and gals!

On Saturday, the 19th of September, the 154th Tac Hosp was asked to assist. Four volunteers, under the direction of Lt Col. Judith Fadrowsky, along with Capt. (Dr.) Richard Ando, Jr., who rearranged his patient schedule so he could come, flew to Kauai on Tuesday morning with medical supplies to provide first aid at Vidinha Stadium near Lihue. When they got there, they expected to have to prepare the area to make it suitable as a first aid station, but the small contingency didn’t quite expect to find dirt and mud on walls! Before they could set up, they had to ‘go back in time’ and really clean the area. By late Tuesday afternoon, it was spotless.

During their four-day 24-hour stint, they saw at least 150 individuals that came in with small puncture wounds, scrapes, and small cuts. Several people came in for treatment of eye irritation due to so much dust exposure. The more severe cases, such as possible fractures, severe bleeding, etc. were referred to Wilcox hospital.

Col. Fadrowsky was very pleased with how well the troops used their training and took good care of themselves. “It could have been a lot worse”, she said. “We were anticipating back injuries, heat stroke, sunburn, dehydration, and other related injuries, but because our people were trained and prepared, we simply didn’t see any of this. Our people were careful to take breaks and drink plenty of water; and. with the potential for tetanus, I think this experience gave our people good reason to make sure their immunizations are up-to-date,” the Colonel said.

She said, the thing that most impressed her was the camaraderie and the caring shown by everyone. Most of the troops there were on orders, few were volunteers, but once the need was realized, there was a real cooperative team effort.

The few photos in this issue provide only a small picture of the tremendous job done by the Hawaii Air National Guard. The media might not have given the HIANG the recognition it deserves, but you know who you are, and your neighbors on Kauai know who you are. The great effort by the 154th Composite Group was much appreciated. Hats off to everyone! The state of Hawaii should be proud of their men and women in uniform that answer “the call” in her time of need.

–1992 October Kukailimoku pp. 9

Command notes

As we approach the close of 1992, I want to thank all of you and your families for the outstanding contributions you have made to our department As all of you know, we have met a number of challenges in the past 12 months, making this a year of extraordinary requirements and unsurpassed achievements.

We concluded 1991 by participating in the Dec. 5-7 commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor and the Dec. 14 flood in Anahola, Kauai. We then embarked on what will no doubt be a landmark year in our department’s history.

We began 1992 by helping load and transport 46,000 pounds of relief goods to Samoa following Cyclone Val. We assisted the Employers Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) on a number of joint Hawaii Army and Air National Guard projects, including the “Bosslift” to Alaska this summer. In September, we carried out our department’s greatest peacetime mission by spearheading the emergency response, relief and recovery efforts triggered by Hurricane Iniki. These, however, were only the highlights of a remarkable year as each division in our department has compiled a long list of accomplishments.

The Hawaii Air National Guard started the year by converting its F-15s under the multi-stage improvement program (MSIP); deployed airmen for training in Thailand, Alaska, Japan and the mainland; earned three safety awards and an Air Force Organizational Excellence Award; and received its first KC- 135R Stratotanker aircraft Dec. 4. The Hawaii Army National Guard deployed soldiers to Japan, Australia and Alaska throughout the year; received its new C-26B Fairchild fixed-wing aircraft, setting a new trans-Pacific speed record in the process; conducted junior leadership training on all major islands; and completed a successful annual training with specific emphasis on squad-level tactics.

State Civil Defense (SCD) conducted Tsunami and other civil defense training throughout the state. Prior to Hurricane Iniki making landfall, the entire SCD staff worked around-the-clock and did an outstanding job monitoring and dealing with the emergency. Their work, far from being completed, will involve years of mitigation actions and auditing records.

The Office of Veterans Services (OVS), meanwhile, dedicated the Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery in Kaneohe in July, and the State Commission on Memorials for Veterans of the Korean and Vietnam Conflicts selected a design for the Korean-Vietnam Memorial in October. OVS also began publishing its quarterly newsletter, The Hawaii Veteran in July and expanded distribution to more than 4,500 veterans by the end of the year. OVS also made notable progress by developing a new data bank to better serve veterans and obtaining the funds to improve veterans cemeteries on the neighbor islands.

As you can see, this has been a truly incredible year. Each day, our employees, along with the support of their families, accomplished their day-to-day requirements and met each emergency mission with incredible speed, competence and professionalism. If anything, our people’s ability to take on these extremely difficult assignments with a positive “can-do” attitude is what has and will continue to set the standard for all future members of our department.

On Dec.18-20, the 111th Army Band presented its annual Christmas Concert for the State Depanment of Defense on Kauai and Oahu. The band performed with its characteristic flair, showcasing their versatility and talent. The band’s two performances on Kauai, Dec. 18 and 19, were emotionally uplifting for our members, families and friends who have had more than their share of loss and suffering this year.

The concert on Oahu was emotionally moving on a different level as the 111th Army Band “family” recognized two of their own: 1st Sgt Bill Yuen, who retired in 1988, and 1st Sgt. Ron Bright, who retires next year. The band members’ gestures of support and appreciation are characteristic of the Hawaii National Guard, which is basically a close-knit family with people who sincerely care for one another.

On Jan. 2, more than 700 state DOD members will sail to Kauai aboard the luxury cruise liner, S.S. Constitution. Governor John Waihee and the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, in coordination with American Hawaii Cruise Lines, arranged the four-day voyage to honor our department’s efforts during Operation Iniki.

Governor Waihee is especially grateful for the outstanding job you did for the residents of Kauai.

The senior leaders of our department also feel the trip to Kauai is an excellent opportunity to honor and thank our people for their unselfish efforts. There will be a short ceremony at the Kukui Grove Pavilion on Kauai, Jan. 4, to thank our soldiers, airmen and civilian employees for a job well done.

Another reason for the trip is to show our people how far the Kauai community has come on their long road to recovery. Tourism has made a remarkable comeback there and our department has been invited as the first group to travel to the island prior to the resumption of regularly scheduled cruise service, Jan. 11, and a grand re-opening of Kauai’s hotels, May 1.

We realize that everyone who participated in Operation Iniki may not be able to take advantage of this rare opportunity. This was a last minute offer and most of you had set plans for the holidays. Our division heads and staff did their best to contact as many people as possible and handled the selection process in the most equitable way possible. For those of you who were chosen by your supervisory or command chain, I want to wish you a very pleasant cruise. You deserve it.

Again, I want to express my appreciation to all of the soldiers, airmen, civilian employees, families and retirees of the State Department of Defense. Each of you has done an exceptional job for the department throughout the year, and I am extremely proud of your outstanding performance. Your achievements have been highly visible in our communities as well as on the state and national levels. On behalf of Governor Waihee, I thank all of you for your hard work on our road to total quality.

My wife, Celia, joins me in wishing you and yours a joyous and happy holiday season. As we meet the challenges of the new year, let us reflect on our many successes and continue our tradition of serving our nation and state with honor and distinction. Have a Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous new year!

– 1992 November – December Pupukahi pp. 2

Hawaii Army National Guard

Calendar year 1992 was another good year for the Hawaii Army National Guard (HIARNG). We started the year determined to accomplish two clear goals: have a successful annual training; and pass the Inspector General (IG) inspection with flying colors.

We accomplished the first goal with outstanding performances by all units in the HIARNG during annual training. The junior leader training program developed and executed by the combined efforts of our noncommissioned officers (NCOs), the U. S. Army Readiness Group, and the 25th Infantry Division (Light) proved to be instrumental in developing and refreshing the know ledge and skills of our junior leaders. Our junior NCOs put these skills to very productive use during the rigorous evaluations of annual training.

The squad-level evaluations conducted by the 1st and 2nd Battalions, 299th Infantry, placed stress on every single soldier, as the success or failure of the squads depended not only on the squad leaders or the fire team leaders, but on every member of the squad.

As I have said many times, give our soldiers the conditions, standards, and training, and they can meet any challenge. All of our squads passed their evaluations.

The 1st Battalion, 487th Artillery, took on a battalion-level Army Training Evaluation Test (ARTEP) and” shot the lights out.” Their “move, shoot, and communicate” skills were put to the test, and they did exceptionally well. Their “putting steel on target” was especially noteworthy.

All of the other HIARNG units: the 29th Support Battalion; the 1st Battalion, 193rd Aviation; the 297th Supply and Service Battalion; the 111th Army Band; the 117th Public Affairs Detachment; and the Hawaii Military Academy performed in similarly outstanding fashion. Our challenge is to maintain the level of training and performance of 1992, and to continually improve and establish higher levels of performance every year.

Our second goal, to pass the 1G re-inspection, was also accomplished during 1992. We had gotten away from the compliance type of inspections, and had, in many ways, become lax in following fully the requirements in all of our functional areas — training, logistics, and administration.

As with our annual training, we are not yet where we want to be and must continually strive to improve our performances. We need to build into our work environments the commitment that nothing less than full compliance with all directives will be accepted, and that we will do our work with our customers in mind. Our customers, of course, are our fellow workers, the members of the HIARNG, and our community.

Our outstanding service to our customers was clearly demonstrated during the relief efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Iniki on Kauai in September. Over 3,000 HIARNG soldiers assisted the people of Kauai, and the speed in responding to the needs of the island clearly demonstrated the high level of preparedness of the HIARNG.

Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 299th Infantry were on the ground performing the missions assigned by the Kauai government within 12 hours of the passing of the hurricane. Other forces followed closely on the heels of the 2nd Battalion, and provided outstanding service from both on island and home stations.

The relief operations on Kauai were a combined effort of community, county, state, federal and military organizations, but I am especially proud of the accomplishments of our HIARNG soldiers. I am also proud of the manner in which these results were accomplished and of the neighborly rapport developed with the people of Kauai.

Both sides learned a lot. We taught the people of Kauai that the National Guard is THEIR militia, comprised of their neighbors, and that we are fully capable of accomplishing a variety of missions. They taught us the meaning of resilience, of determination in the face of adversity, and of the true spirit of Ohana. We taught them what “T-rations” and “MRE’s” are all about!

Hubert Humphrey once said, “The impersonal hand of government can never replace the helping hand of a neighbor.” We feel the National Guard has provided both.

Let me take this occasion to wish each and every one of you and your families a joyous and safe holiday season.

– 1992 November – December Pupukahi pp.6

Hawaii Army National Guard

On April 7, 1993, the House of Representatives of the Hawaii State Legislature honored leaders of the Hawaii National Guard, State Civil Defense, and the active Army for the assistance given to the people of Kauai following Hurricane Iniki. House Resolutions were presented to each leader. The resolution to the Hawaii Army National Guard reads, in part:

“WHEREAS, on the afternoon of September 11, 1992, the eye of the most destructive storm ever to hit the Hawaiian Islands passed directly over the Island of Kauai, bringing rain and winds in excess of l00 miles per hour across the Garden Isle; and

‘WHEREAS, the destructive wrath of Hurricane Iniki severely damaged Kauai’s utility infrastructure) particularly water, sewer, electric, and telecommunication), jeopardized the welfare and safety of citizens, and created an urgent need for humanitarian aid on the Island of Kauai; and

“WHEREAS, activated upon the issuance of a hurricane warning by the National Weather service on September 10th, the HAWAII NATIONAL GUARD mobilized in the hours that followed Hurricane Iniki to provide immediate assistance to the people of Kauai; and

“WHEREAS, in the following weeks, by consolidating the efforts of 5,500 troops from Hawaii, and personnel from National Guard units from California, Washington, Oregon, Oklahoma, Alaska, Texas, and Tennessee, the HAWAII NATIONAL GUARD worked around the clock to return normalcy to devastated areas; and

“WHEREAS, in light of this, the Legislature takes great pride in recognizing the leadership, dedication, and efforts of Brigadier General Eugene S. Imai, Commander, Hawaii Army National Guard to provide assistance to the citizens of Kauai in the aftermath of Hurricane Iniki; now, therefore,

BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representative of the Seventeenth Legislature of the State Of Hawaii, Regular Session of 1993, that this body recognizes and commends the humanitarian efforts of Brigadier General Eugene S. Imai, Commander, Hawaii Army National Guard, and extends to him its warmest ALOHA and best wishes for continued success in all future endeavors.”

It was with great humility and honor that I accepted the resolution on your behalf, for the gratitude expressed in this resolution by the Legislature on behalf of the people of Kauai should go to every soldier in the Hawaii Army National Guard who assisted either on Kauai or at home station in this outstanding effort.

There is a great deal of Aloha felt by the people of not only Kauai, but of Hawaii in general for the National Guard. Legislators have expressed strong support for programs to support National Guard interests. They are proud of Hawaii’s National Guard … You should also feel proud to belong to such a respected and honored organization.

–1993 April – May Pūpūkahi pp.6

Hawaii National Guard wins Federal Organizational Excellence award

The Federal Executive Board of Hawaii awarded the Hawaii National Guard (HING) its prestigious Federal Organizational Excellence Award for 1992 during the Board’s luncheon at the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel, May 27.

The annual luncheon recognizes the extraordinary contributions of the very best organizations and people in public service. Maj. Gen. Edward V. Richardson, state adjutant general, accepted the award on behalf of the men and women of the HING, thanking them for their dedication and commitment to the people of Hawaii during the Hurricane Iniki crisis.

“Our soldiers and airmen accomplished their state mission with a sense of caring and compassion that captured the humanistic aspect of emergency response operations,” said Richardson.

Each year, the Federal Executive Board sponsors Federal Week to recognize the outstanding contributions of the federal community to our state and nation.

The week highlights the activities of the federal government and seeks to strengthen the partnership between the public and private sectors in Hawaii.

Of the 20 nominees for the award, the HING was chosen the group that “best demonstrated distinctive leadership and teamwork during a difficult mission of major significance to the public.”

“Operation Iniki” was conducted on the hurricane -ravaged island of Kauai, Sept. 12 to Nov. 6, 1992. The HING was the first military unit to land on Kauai after Hurricane Iniki struck, Sept. 11.

Following lniki’s passing, the HING provided a wide range of emergency services and humanitarian assistance to the people of Kauai as well as Oahu.

During the crisis, the Guard helped prevent injury, disease and illness; provided air transportation for cargo and military and civilian personnel between Kauai and the neighbor islands; reestablished communications; helped restore electricity; and cleared land and streams of debris left by Iniki.

As a result of the timely response and caring of our Guard members, the HING earned the trust and confidence of the people of Kauai as well as the county leadership.

–1993 June -July Pupukahi pp.1

HING recognized for excellence in public service

The Hawaii National Guard received special recognition in the 1993 Public Service Excellence Awards competition in May. The Guard was chosen as a federal finalist out of 300 nominations nationwide.

The award, presented annually by the Public Employees Roundtable, pays tribute to government employees whose achievements exhibit the highest standard of dedication, excellence and accomplishment. The Guard was recognized for its outstanding contributions to the community, especially during the Hurricane Iniki relief efforts.

–1993 June -July Pupukahi pp.1

154th Group earns fourth NGAUS Distinguished Flying Unit Plaque

By Gaye S. Sakamoto

The 154th Group, Hawaii Air National Guard earned its fourth National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) Distinguished Flying Unit Plaque in 1992.

NGAUS annually awards the plaque to the top five Air National Guard (ANG) flying units in the country.

The Group earned the award for a year full of accomplishments demonstrating its professionalism, readiness and dedication.

In April, the Group was the first ANG unit to undergo the F-15A multi-stage improvement program (MSIP), leading the way for other units undergoing this combat upgrade. The MSIP boosts the avionics capabilities of the F- 15, including the ability to employ the AIM-120 missile.

The Group flew more than 200 sorties during “RIMPAC ’92” in July. This multi-national exercise provided complex scenarios consisting of high value asset escort, maritime operations against naval surface attack groups and dissimilar air combat training.

The Group’s C-130H airlifted needed communication and electrical generation equipment to Kauai the day after Hurricane Iniki hit the island, Sept. 11, and flew 125 sorties supporting the hurricane relief efforts during the next 17 days. It provided needed medevac missions for dialysis patients stranded on Kauai and transported people and materials for the Kauai relief efforts.

The 154th also provided clean-up and technical assistance during Operation Garden Sweep, a mission to remove storm debris posing serious health concerns for Kauai residents.

More than 500 men and women of the 154th deployed to Kauai for a week to eliminate this health risk, and Group members continued to volunteer for various relief missions throughout the months of October and November.

The Group demonstrated to the state of Hawaii and other National Guard units their tremendous flexibility and professionalism during this disaster.

Throughout the year, the 154th was busy orchestrating the activation of the 203rd Air Refueling Squadron and welcomed the first of five KC-135R tanker aircraft in December.

The Group also received the Air National Guard Flight Safety Plaque and the Air National Guard Explosive Safety Plaque for its outstanding performance in 1992. The Group’s Class C flight mishaps decreased from seven in 1991 to two in 1992, a reduction of 62.3 percent at a rate of. 75 mishaps per 1,000 fighter flying hours.

The Distinguished Flying Unit plaque will be presented at the NGAUS annual conference in Biloxi, Miss., Oct. 11-12, 1993.

–1993 June -July Pupukahi pp.3

Hawaii Guard helps housing projects become a reality

By Barbara Hendrie, Steve Lal and Stephen Lum

The Hawaii National Guard was busy with more than military training this spring. Guard members used their valuable skills to help several community projects get started.

Heavy equipment operators and technical advisors from Kauai and Oahu worked with the County and State housing offices on projects on Kauai and in Waimanalo and Kalihi.

Kauai housing and power assistance

The Hawaii Air National Guard’s 154th Air Control Squadron and 150th Aircraft Control and Waming Squadron and the Hawaii Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 299th Infantry, continued their post-Hurricane Iniki assistance on Kauai, March-May 1993.

Airmen transported materials in Guard flat-bed trucks for the construction of 35 temporary cabins for Kauai residents whose houses were destroyed by Hurricane Iniki. Staff and inmates from Kauai and Oahu Community Correctional Centers unloaded the materials donated for hurricane relief by the Weinberg Foundation.

Army and Air Guard personnel also transported 58 emergency generators on loan from the Federal Emergency

“We are grateful to the Hawaii National Guard … for helping us build our community pride.”

Lui Faleafine Jr. Kuhlo Park Terrace project manager

Management Agency (FEMA) for installation in schools, shelters and other priority sites. Another 32 generators are set for delivery. FEMA loaned a total of 102 generators statewide.

Waimanalo housing project

The 227th Engineers provided crucial support in the first phase of a transitional homeless shelter in Waimanalo, June 5-6. The engineers cleared 4.5 acres of land for the site of the Weinberg Village, an assistance program and facility for homeless families and individuals.

The State Hawaii Housing Authority, which is in charge of the project, originally asked Guard engineers to clear 1.5 acres of the site for one house and three duplexes. But, when Capt. Arthur J. Logan, commander of the 227th, and Sgt. 1st Class Ian Ross surveyed the area they saw the potential to expand the site.

“This area can give a lot more than just an acre and a half,” said Logan, “My soldiers have the capabilities to help make this a much larger facility.” With an additional three acres cleared by the 227th, project engineers will be able to bring in 10 more multi-portable buildings, presently stored at the former Kapiolani Community College campus, bringing the number of buildings up from four to 14 and providing an additional 41 living units to the village.

Plans also call for the importation of 16 modular studio units currently being used to house hurricane victims on the island of Kauai. Located near the center ofWaimanalo Town, the completed facility will also have laundry, administration and support services facilities.

A half-dozen private contractors have agreed to provide the manpower needed to convert the portable classrooms into living units

“The Guard supported our project from the very beginning,” said Elaine Saigusa, Hawaii Housing project coordinator for the village, “Without their support we would not have been able to expand the facility.”

Kalihi housing project

The Guard’s 292nd Quartermaster Company helped bring the Kalihi community together at the Hawaii Housing Authority’s Kuhio Homes and Kuhio Park Terrace (KPT) by moving two large logs from Manoa Valley to KPT, June 8.

The logs, approximately 3 1/2 feet in diameter and 14 and 22 feet long, will be carved into traditional Samoan canoes.

“More than 80 families are involved in the community pride building project,” said Iulai Pei, Kuhlo Homes Residents Association president.

Pei and Kuhio resident, Aipo Aip are serving as instructional carvers for residents of the two projects.

The canoe project was conceived over a year ago as one of several activities to eliminate drugs in public housing.

“We hope the project will give Kalhi youths an alternative for their free time and get young and old members of the community to work together said Earl Kawa’a, resident service manager with the Housing Authority.

“While carving the canoe, we’ll have the opportunity to talk-story, to share our knowledge and experience added Pei, “We welcome anyone come join us to build canoes and friend ships. We envision canoe races and possible trip to Samoa in the future

“We are grateful to the Hawaii National Guard, Hawaiian Electric Co. and Paradise Park,” said Lui Faleaf Jr., KPT project manager, “for helping us build our community pride.”

Five 292nd soldiers were assisted by technical advisors from the 29 Maintenance Company and 227th Engineer Company. Two Army Guard five-ton wreckers were used to drag and hoist the logs onto a Hawaii Electric Company long-bed truck the seven-mile drive from Paradise Park to Kalihi. The logs, donated by Paradise Park, are Albisea trees, from the Balsa wood family.

–1993 June -July Pupukahi pp.4-5

First lady praises the State Department of Defense

First lady Hillary Rodham Clinton met with Gov. John Waihee, Kauai Mayor JoAnn Yukimura and members of the state Department of Defense to discuss the state’s Hurricane lniki recovery efforts at the Kabala Hilt.on, July 14.

Maj. Gen. Edward V. Richardson, state adjutant general, led the discussion.

After Mrs. Clinton was briefed on the joint efforts of the state, county and federal governments immediately following Hurricane Iniki, Roy Price, vice director of State Civil Defense, outlined the current state of Kauai’s recovery. Mayor Yukimura then covered conditions and concerns from the county’s perspective.

During a press conference at the Hyatt Regency on Kauai later that day, Mrs. Clinton called Operation Iniki “the most remarkable and efficient response effort to a disaster that we have had in our country,” and congratulated Richardson and everyone who worked with him.

”I believe it will become a model on how the federal and county governments should work together,” Mrs. Clinton said.

–1993 July-August Pupukahi pp.1

TAG cited for distinguished service by National Governors’ Association

Maj. Gen. Edward V. Richardson, state adjutant general, was among 13 individuals from 12 states to be recognized for distinguished service to state government by the National Governors’ Association (NGA) during its annual meeting in Tulsa, Okla., Aug. 16-17.

Richardson was responsible for the coordination and management of the state’s response to Hurricane lniki which devastated Kauai and parts of Oahu, Sept. 11, 1992.

He accepted the award on behalf of the members of the Hawaii National Guard and the state Department of Defense, who participated in the response and recovery.

Under his leadership, the county, state, federal, military and private sectors successfully conducted a response and recovery effort that minimized the loss of human life and maximized the use of all available resources within the state.

“General Richardson’s leadership during those hectic hours just before the storm and his experienced hand in managing the emergency response in the days and weeks following Iniki made a significant difference in how well we were able to deal with what amounted to the worst storm to hit the islands in recorded history,” said Gov. John Waihee. “While he would characterize his own actions as ‘just doing his job,’ the quality of his performance was certainly above and beyond the call of duty.”

Established in 1976, the NGA Distinguished Service Awards program honored five state officials or employees and five private citizens from Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio and South Carolina.

–1993 July-August Pupukahi pp.1

Command Notes

In the last few months, our organization has been involved in a variety of great activities.

We started off July by briefing first lady Hillary Rodham Clinton on the state’s Hurricane Iniki response and recovery efforts. Mrs. Clinton is a very gracious woman, and it was a pleasure to talk with her.

Preparing for the President and first lady’s visit involved activities ranging from providing security and drivers to compiling information for the brief. We even spruced up our headquarters building with the possibility that the President himself would stop by. I want to thank all who worked so hard to make a good showing. The briefing was a great success and Mrs. Clinton was impressed by the entire state’s coordinated response to the hurricane.

We moved quickly from the first lady’s visit into a very successful and safe Annual Training. I want to congratulate the Army Guard on their tremendous results. (For more on Annual Training, see pages 4-6.)

In the last part of July, we took part in the groundbreaking ceremony for the Korean and Vietnam memorials on the grounds of the State Capitol.

I would like to thank all of our staff who worked so hard to help make these memorials a reality. All of you who worked on the design selection process in support of the Memorials Commission know that it was often a challenging journey. But, having faced those challenges, we can be confident that the final design is one that will be appreciated and cherished by veterans, their families and visitors for years to come.

”Readiness and retention are two of the Guard’s greatest challenges … and everyone has something to contribute to achieving high levels in both areas .. “

In August, the 154th Group completed a very successful deployment to Singapore for “Singapore Sling.” I was very pleased with how well our airmen adapted to the foreign environment and the respect they showed their hosts. They set an excellent precedent for future deployments to Singapore.

September 11 marks the anniversary of Hurricane Iniki. Recently, I accepted a National Governors’ Association award for distinguished service to the community. I want to say that I accepted the award on behalf of all of you who worked so hard during that disaster. I cannot say enough about your efforts to help the people of Kauai and Oahu after the hurricane. I am pleased to note that, during the recent threat from Hurricane Fernanda, our soldiers and airmen were equally prepared to respond.

Recently I addressed the Officer Candidate Class 31-93 at their graduation ceremony, and I would like to share with you some of the issues that I discussed.

Readiness and retention are two of the Guard’s greatest challenges for the future, and everyone in the Guard has something to contribute to achieving high levels in both areas.

I want to reiterate the responsibility of each Guard member to become an expert at your job and to look out for your fellow Guard members.

If you supervise others, we depend on you to keep abreast of Guard procedures and regulations, keep your people well informed, and pay close attention to how well they are trained, how promptly they are paid, whether they are having problems in their civilian jobs, whether their skills and talents are being utilized in the Guard and whether they are recognized for their efforts and successes.

If we all strive to consistently improve our skills and knowledge, and look out for each other, we in the Hawaii National Guard will have an excellent foundation on which to build our future.

–1993 July-August Pupukahi pp.2

Humanitarian Service Medal

The Humanitarian Service Medal (HSM) for Hurricane Iniki relief operations was approved by the Joint Chiefs of Staff and DOD officials for all eligible members of the Hawaii National Guard. The HSM sets (medal and ribbon) have been ordered and will be presented to soldiers and airmen upon receipt.

–1993 September – October Pupukahi pp.2

Command notes

It’s hard to believe that another year has come to a close. As I look back on all our accomplishments, I feel deep gratitude for and pride in the members of our department. And, as I look fonvard, I feel great optimism about our future.

Hurricane Iniki literally swept us from 1992 into 1993. Again, the efforts of each and every one of you to help our state recover from that storm contributed to one of the most successful disaster responses in our nation’s history. Throughout 1993, our department received numerous accolades for Operation Iniki, including the Federal Executive Board’s organizational excellence award, the National Governors Association award for distinguished state service, which I accepted on your behalf, and even words of congratulations from first lady Hillary Rodham Clinton. We continue to work on the recovery process today through the governor’s Hurricane Iniki Task Force.

I am extremely proud to note that despite the disruption caused by Iniki, our units maintained excellent performance and kept the ball rolling in all of our department’s other ongoing projects.

The activation of the 203rd Air Refueling Squadron in February added tremendous capability to the Hawaii Air National Guard CHIANG). The members of the 203rd have taken their responsibilities seriously and kept up a steady training schedule in an effort to become fully operational by 1995.

The Air Guard also maintained an impressive deployment schedule. The 199th Fighter Squadron and the 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron were the first Air Guard units to participate in the “Commando Sling” exercise in Singapore. This spring, the 201st Combat Communications Group participated in Exercises Team Spirit in Korea and Cobra Gold in Thailand. The 154th Civil Engineers and Services Flight completed major training deployments to Okinawa and, in September, the Tactical Hospital travelled to Korea.

This year we completed conversion of our F-15 fighters under the Multi-Stage Improvement Program and began installing chaff and flare dispensers on those aircraft. Finally, the 154th Group was awarded its fourth distinguished flying unit plaque.

Hawaii Army National Guard (HIARNG) units completed a very successful annual training(AT) at numerous locations. The 29th Infantry Brigade (Separate), 1st Battalion, 487th Field Artillery and elements of Troop Command performed AT at Schofield Barracks and at Pohakuloa Training Area.

” … our programs, combined with the quality of our units, will … secure a productive future for the Hawaii National Guard.”

Other elements of the HIARNG completed training at Camp Guernsey, Wyoming(lst Battalion, 487th Field Artillery), in Panama (117th Public Affairs Detachment and 298th Engineer Detachment) and in Germany (291st Maintenance Company).

This year we began focusing intensely on improving the Army Guard’s recruitment and retention record. The state legislature established the adjutant general’s task force on National Guard recruitment and retention, and we have been working very hard to come up with a package of incentives for consideration during the next legislative session.

The Army Guard began receipt of 16 CH-47s for its new medium lift unit in November, and continues to plan for the arrival of four UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters next year for a medical helicopter unit.

We also continue to work toward activation of an aviation intermediate maintenance facility on Oahu.

Our joint operations included establishment of a burial detail in which the HIARNG’s C-26and the HIANG’s C-130 transport active military honor guards to the neighbor islands to provide burial honors for veterans.

The Drug Demand Reduction program also got off to a good start, and we are moving quickly to establish our Youth Challenge program, which will provide education and job training for high school dropouts.

While we will bear our share of hardship due to the reduction in our nation’s military budget, I believe our new programs, combined with the quality of our units, will put us in a good position to weather the storm and secure a productive future for the Hawaii National Guard.

Our Office of Veterans Services continued to improve and expand services to veterans. Our department continues to support completion of our state veterans cemetery in Kaneohe and improvements and additions to our neighbor island cemeteries.

In July, we saw groundbreaking for the Korean-Vietnam memorial. The memorial, which our department helped make a reality, will provide a fitting reminder of the sacrifices made by Hawaii’s veterans in Korea and Vietnam.

I want to thank each and every member of our department for your dedication and hard work throughout the year. I know that we can continue to count on you as we meet the challenges and opportunities that await us in the new year. I would also like to thank our Guard families for their ongoing patience and support.

My wife, Celia, joins me in wishing you all a very happy holiday season and a safe start to the new year.

–1993 November – December Pupukahi pp.2

154th Services Flight

The 154th Services Flight has truly been through a decade of change. transition and restructuring to meet worldwide demands as well a locally. We have evolved from the Combat Support Squadrons Food Service section to the Services Flight of today. This transformation increased the mission focus from fixed facility food services to a mobility and worldwide deployable team capable of providing support in Mortuary Affairs, Search and Recovery, Billeting and Laundry. As of the early 1990’s the Services mission has increased once again entailing the MWR (Morale Welfare and Recreation) program.

Operating from the aging dining hall designed to accommodate only 125 guardsmen, the flight services approximately 700 customers per day during the UTA. The flight is made up of all traditional guardsmen headed by SMSgt Harry Teramoto. Food Service Superintendent and MSgt. Bernard Song, Dining Hall Supervisor.

Throughout the nation. Services was established to maintain these basic military needs in 1986 as the Prime RIBS (Read) In Base Service). March 2, 1988, TSgt Stanley Tanigawa is the first RIBS technician hired. trained at Eglin AFB. Florida and tasked lo establish the RIBS program at the Hawaii Air National Guard.

July 1988, twenty four Services personnel primarily trained as cooks attend BRAAT (Base Recover) After Attack Training) with the 154 CES. 1988 marked the first edition of Services newsletters by TSgt Jeffrey Camara. Federal recognition took place on April 7. 1989 and established the 154th Services Flight with a 24 man UTC. commanded by Captain Kay D. Sgagias. Aligned under the 154th Mission Support Squadron. the unit was 3 years behind schedule and destined to get back on track. Summer in 1989 challenged the unit with CES projects supporting the 292nd CCSQ and continuous deployment to Kadena AB. Okinawa, Japan and TDY. 1990 increased manning to 34 personnel supporting 154 TAC Hospital in Osan. Korea and realignment under the 154th Civil Engineering Squadron. 1991 tasked all personnel with deployment to Kauai in support of CAMRON’s exercise of DACT. MSgt. Teramoto retired after serving the HANG for 38 years. April 1991. Capt. Phillip Radford from the 179th TFS assumes command of the Flight. Focus on the mobility program made great leaps and bounds which was heavily tested during the Hurricane Iniki Relief efforts in September 1992. Probably the greatest test of our capability to support our disaster preparedness plans and family support networks came with the sudden and quick reactions during the aftermath of the hurricane. Hurricane Iniki was the highlight of the decade providing valuable lessons of planning and validating training. Teams worked extremely well with the Mobile Kitchen Trailer establishing distribution points at Princeville, Kauai in joint effort with Army National Guard teams. Captain Melissa Y. J. Zen assumed command of the flight in June 1994. as Captain Radford would take command of the 154 SPF. Services deployed continuously. but lightly to fulfill biennial requirements of Silver Flag (formerly known as BRAAT) in Okinawa, Japan.

The mortuary affairs mission is an arena of peacetime capability as well as wartime capability. During peacetime. mortuary affairs is providing support to all military members, dependents and the Next of Kin on duty, off duty and retired. and the entitlements applicable to the passing Guard member. During wartime. Services provide teams of personnel capable of receiving and immediately processing those remains of US military members and foreign military members to the nearest Aerial port for shipment and proper identification.

Also under the same realm of responsibility and closely tied to mortuary affairs is the Search and Recovery operations which is also a peacetime and wartime mission. Close coordination with various agencies involved during an aerial mishap, Services teams will assist with search. plotting and recovery of personal properly and human remains. Upon recovery of remains, all efforts are made through identification labs and professionals trained to properly identify human remains. Personal property is used to assist identification and returned to Next of Kin.

Field laundry operations are in support of deployed forces of large quantities requiring organizational laundry support. The basic deployed equipment is the PLU or Palletized Laundry Unit. UNIMAC and commercial washer and dryer units, which are self contained units and capable of sustaining forces under field conditions. Lodging operations are under field conditions that are closely tied to Civil Engineering functions during beddown planning and establish camp layout, design and shelter of personnel. During peacetime or deployed lo another military installation, Services teams maintain the Billeting office and operations.

Very similar and closely tied to Billeting is the MWR mission. Providing services of fitness. recreation and morale building operations. This function is very large and different from each military organization. Some of the functions include clubs. gyms. recreation centers and activity centers as some of the more popular functional areas.

Food Service is broken down to field conditions and fixed facility. Each arena supports the basic necessity of food and water to deployed forces. Field conditions is the most challenging and yet overlooked as a small facet of mobility. Food services is the heart of field conditions and the sustaining of forces.

The new consolidated support facility will provide a much, awaited and needed dining facility capable of meeting the support needs of the 154th Wing customers. It will consist of new technologies and equipment providing the proper facility and proper equipment capable of meeting the customer needs in the coming years. As we anxiously await the “show piece of the Pacific”, the flight sets their focus on the Hennessey Trophy as the outstanding food service establishment in the Air Force. A lot of memory and repair will remain with Bldg 3400 Room 2A, our old dining hall.

Today, the unit is proud of all the accomplishments and partnerships made throughout the community nationally and locally. Our family support program supports our people, local charities and organizations such as River of life, Ronald McDonald House. Shriner’s Hospital for Crippled Children and Kapiolani Hospital.

We continue to strive for professionalism, mission essential training and providing quality services whenever called upon.

–1996 Five Decades of Service Excellence Hawaii Air National Guard Golden Anniversary 1946-1996 pp. 68-69