2025 Pūpūkahi | Volume 55 | No. 4

State responds to tsunami warning

On July 29, a tsunami warning was in effect after a magnitude 8.0 earthquake occurred off the coast of Kamchatka, Russia. The Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency’s Emergency Operations Center was fully activated and the Joint Information Center was assembled inside Diamond Head Crater as Gov. Josh Green, Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Stephen Logan and Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency Administrator James Barros oversaw the preparation and response to the possible incoming tsunami. They coordinated with federal, state, county and military partners to plan how to keep Hawaiʻī safe.

– Photos by retired Master Sgt. Andrew Jackson

Volunteers finish planting over 200 treesat Keaukaha Military Reservation on Big Island

On Aug. 19, 11 community members joined Hawaiʻi Army National Guard and Liko Nā Pilina staff to outplant trees at the Keaukaha Military Reservation. Out-planting was finished up by a group of 12 volunteers from the Lanakila Learning Center on Aug. 29. Between the two groups, 232 trees were planted of 15 different species! Volunteers helped finish off what has been over a year-long effort to plant more desirable plants, both native and non-invasive introduced plants, along the roadside at KMR. Following planting, volunteers received a tour of the Liko Nā Pilina restoration plots and learned how to apply nematodes to tree infected with Queensland Longhorn Beetle larvae to kill the larvae and save the tree.

— Photos by Emma Stierhoff, University of Hawai‘i at Hilo

HFACS training strengthens safety culture

By Chief Warrant Officer 5 John Yim

The Hawai‘i Army National Guard (HIARNG) Safety and Occupational Health (SOH) Office hosted a two-day Human Factors Accident Classification System (HFACS) training at the 298^th Regional Training Institute on Sept. 6 and 7. The event was led by Chief Warrant Officer 3 Sun Min Chun-Dayondon, HIARNG Safety Specialist, and instructed by Mr. Thomas Clemente, a nationally-recognized expert in accident investigation and human factors.

HFACS is a proven framework used across the Department of Defense and aviation industry to identify underlying human errors that contribute to mishaps. By categorizing factors such as organizational influences, unsafe supervision, preconditions for unsafe acts and the unsafe acts themselves, HFACS helps leaders see beyond the immediate cause of an incident and address systemic issues.

The training brought together a diverse audience of safety officers, commanders and safety professionals from both the HIARNG and the South Dakota Army National Guard. In addition, HIARNG Cmdr. Brig. Gen. Tyson Tahara addressed the class, emphasizing the critical role of safety leadership and the importance of applying HFACS principles to prevent accidents before they occur.

“HFACS equips our safety professionals and commanders with a structured way to analyze accidents, identify trends, and develop targeted interventions,” said Chief Warrant Officer 5 John Yim, HIARNG Safety Manager. “This training strengthens our ability to protect Soldiers, preserve readiness, and support mission success.”

Throughout the weekend, participants engaged in classroom instruction, case study analysis and group discussions. The collaborative setting allowed officers from Hawaiʻi and South Dakota to share lessons learned and best practices, building stronger inter-state partnerships.

Tahara praised the initiative, noting, “Investing in human factors training is investing in our Soldiers. HFACS gives us the tools to better understand risk, improve decision-making, and reduce preventable losses.”

The course concluded with a renewed commitment from attendees to apply HFACS principles within their commands, further embedding a proactive safety culture in the HIARNG.

Kūpono I ka Maluhia — Excellence in Safety.

Commander’s conference highlights HING’s mission

By retired Master Sgt. Andrew Jackson | State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense Public Affairs

Col. Regina Komine Chief of Staff, Joint Staff, Hawai‘i National Guard

The Hawai‘i National Guard (HING) recently hosted a commanders conference, bringing together senior Hawai‘i Army and Air National Guard commanders and their Senior Enlisted Leaders on July 25-26 at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaiʻi. The conference, hosted by the Adjutant General State of Hawaii, Maj. Gen. Stephen Logan, highlighted HING’s dual role as an “elite warfighting force” while also being “trusted, ready and responsive” for state missions.

Setting the strategic tone, Hawai‘i Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke delivered an opening address, emphasizing the HING’s relationships with First Responders during times of crisis. 

“The Hawai‘i National Guard is vital in itʻs role in supporting the state,” Luke said. “The cooperation and communication between local and federal departments that HING demonstrates is the future of state operations and the HING is key to successful daily operations at the state level but it is vital in times of emergency.” 

Maj. Gen. Stephen Logan then presented his vision and expectations, focusing on “readiness for the future by learning from the past” and the crucial mission of “preparing to respond to the state’s and the nation’s worst day but to also come home”.

The conference agenda featured a series of insightful briefings from leaders across the U.S. INDO Pacific Command’s Area of Responsibility (AOR), designed to provide a comprehensive strategic and operational outlook. 

Commodore Jonathan Lett, Royal Navy, INDOPACOM J5P, delivered a crucial USINDOPACOM update, effectively setting the regional context for discussions. During his presentation, Commodore Lett specifically highlighted the Hawai‘i National Guard’s successful State Partnership Program with Indonesia and the Philippines and emphasizing the United Kingdom’s mantra of “Capable and Credible Communication” and how it helps to provide stability and deterrence in the region by utilizing soft power to enable “lethality through relations.”

Further deepening the understanding of the AOR, attendees received updates from Col. Deric Holbrook from U.S. Army Pacific and Maj. Gen. Christopher Sheppard from the Pacific Air Forces. The agenda also included an  detailed intelligence update a People’s Liberation Army overview presented by Mr. Ian Sullivan from U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, and a forward-looking INDOPACOM AI Integration brief by Mr. Robert A. Stephenson, Director, USINDOPACOM J8. These diverse presentations collectively addressed the complex challenges and opportunities within the Indo-Pacific theatre.

HING Counterdrug Program analysts complete D.A.R.E. training

On July 18, Hawai‘i National Guard Counterdrug Program (HING CDP) analysts Sgt. Samson Achuela, Spc. Charles Iopa and Sgt. Arnold Escano (pictured above from left with lei) graduated from the 40^th Hawaii Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) Officer Training (HI-DOT) at Kapolei Police Station. With over 80 hours of classroom instruction, they trained in the Keepin’ it REAL curriculum, covering drug prevention, decision-making, peer pressure, communication, stress management and bullying. Their certification brings the HING CDP total to five trained instructors, delivering the Keepin’ it REAL curriculum across Hawai‘i schools on the islands of O‘ahu and Hawai‘i, with an additional instructor supporting on the island of Maui through the Law Enforcement Against Drugs and Violence (L.E.A.D.S.) program. Our HING CDP Guardsmen are proudly working alongside law enforcement to strengthen youth resilience and reduce substance abuse in our communities. 

– Honolulu Police Department photos

Messages of Hope crane display showcased in third straight year

The Hawai’i National Guard presented the return of the Messages of Hope crane display at the Navy Exchange Mall. Located on the second floor, this collaborative effort united teams from the 154^th Wing Directorate of Psychological Health, Behavioral Health, Family Readiness Center and more — raising awareness about suicide prevention and mental health. Thousands of hand-folded origami cranes carry heartfelt messages of encouragement, brightening days and fostering mental health awareness for all patrons and visitors. This was the third straight year that Hawai‘i National Guard family care teams brought the inspiring initiative to life, strengthening bonds within our special community. If you or someone you know needs support, reach out anytime: Dial 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, or for service members and veterans, call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line. Your well-being matters — help is just a call away.

— U.S. Air National Guard photos

Operation Homefront readies local military families for school

Operation Homefront’s annual Back-to-School Brigade was held July 26 at the Hawai‘i Army National Guard’s 29^th BDE Readiness Center in Kāpolei. The organization had 440 backpacks filled with essential school supplies ready for military children. The Back-to-School Brigade distributes thousands of backpacks across the country, easing the financial burden of the season for military parents and fostering a sense of community and excitement for students. The program is about more than just pencils and notebooks, but about easing financial stress, helping children feel confident, and building a sense of belonging and community, even when everything else feels unfamiliar. Local sponsors included Hui ‘O Na Wahine (Schofield Spouses Club), Veterans United, Hickam Officer’s Spouses Club, Aloha Pacific Federal Credit Union and Navy Federal Credit Union.

— Operation Homefront photos

J-CAST training focuses on spiritual readiness

By Staff Sgt. Julius Maeva | Hawai‘i Air National Guard

Maj. Gen. Stephen Logan, Adjutant General of the State of Hawai‘i, Department of Defense, addressed Soldiers and Airmen of the Hawai‘i National Guard during this year’s Joint Chaplain Annual Sustainment Training (J-CAST), held on Sept. 6 during drill weekend at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

Logan highlighted the importance of spiritual readiness and emphasized his commitment to family support through his “Pane Mai” program. Pane Mai — meaning “answer me” in Hawaiian — is an Ask-The-TAG initiative that allows Guard family members to submit questions, voice concerns and better understand the military. The program was designed to bridge the gap between service members’ duties and the families who support them, giving loved ones a direct channel to leadership for clarity on military life.

“The Hawai‘i National Guard is family oriented,” Logan said. “It’s about making sure families feel just as connected to the mission as the service members in uniform.”

U.S. Navy Capt. Dave Yang, Chaplain for U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), also spoke at the event, addressing the State Partnership Program with the Philippines and Indonesia. Yang underscored the value of spiritual fitness and collaboration with allies in the Indo-Pacific region to foster mutual understanding and strengthen unity.

The day also highlighted the accomplishments of two newly-commissioned officers. 2^nd Lt. Sean Murley and 2^nd Lt. Abraham Hall were formally recognized with their promotion to commissioned officers in the Hawai‘i National Guard. Their commissioning represents both a spiritual calling as the newest Chaplains in the Chaplain Corps and the Guard’s continued investment in developing leaders for the future.

To close the training, airmen and soldiers assembled a Tactical Field Religious Support Kit, the kit includes portable worship supplies, counseling resources, and quick-deploy shelter equipment designed for austere environments. Airmen and soldiers work shoulder-to-shoulder in promoting safety and unity in both the mission and the Hawai‘i National Guard ohana.

J-CAST brought together chaplains and religious affairs specialists from the Hawaiʻi Army and Air National Guard, strengthening their ability to deliver spiritual support, foster resilience, and promote cultural awareness in joint and coalition environments.

The Hawai‘i National Guard remains committed to sustaining mission readiness and family support, ensuring Soldiers, Airmen and their families are prepared to serve and thrive in the ever-evolving security landscape of the INDOPACIFIC region.

Isle senators tour Hawai‘i Army National Guard facilities

Sen. Brandon Elefante, Sen. Glenn Wakai and Sen. Samantha DeCorte spent the day touring the Hawai’i Army National Guard (HIARNG) facilities on July 23rd, 2025. The senators had the opportunity to tour Waiawa Armory, Bowers Armory, Army Aviation Support Facility #1, the 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team Readiness Center and the Rainbow Hangar. During the visit, the senators got to learn about the HIARNG’s wide range of capabilities and their support to federal and state missions. They also met some of the full-time leaders and staff who described the detailed functions of the various units in the HIARNG. The HIARNG speakers included Col. Damon Hogsten, Chief of Staff for the HIARNG, Command Sgt. Maj. Ronald Biancaniello, Command Sergeant Major of the 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team and Col. Wesley Kawakami, Commander of the 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. 

– Hawai‘i Army National Guard photos by Sgt. Casandra Ancheta

Director Curtis Washburn retiring from State Approving Agency

Curtis Washburn is retiring this month as director of the Hawai‘i State Approving Agency (SAA), a position he has held since 2019. Washburn and his wife plan to move to the Philippines where she is from and explore his post-retirement options. 

Retired Brig. Gen. Bruce Oliveira, Director of Civilian-Military Programs which oversees the SAA shared his experience working with Washburn. “Curtis consistently demonstrated exceptional reliability, delivering high-quality work on time and with great attention to detail.” 

“He worked well with others and actively sought feedback and embraced learning opportunities,” says Oliveira.  “His leadership not only achieved results but also inspired a culture of collaboration and shared success, where everyone felt valued and motivated to contribute their best.” 

We asked Curtis some questions about his time with the SAA and what the future holds for him. 

Describe your position and what the SAA is and does.

The primary function of the SAA is to review, evaluate and approve quality educational and training programs for veterans’ benefits. As the director and the sole member of the SAA, I handle everything related to the work of the SAA. There are about a dozen states like this and it’s all based on the number of “active facilities” in the state. So, small states like Rhode Island, Delaware, Vermont, Alaska (big state, but small number of schools) are all one-person operations like Hawai‘i. States such as Texas and California might have 25 or more people working in their office, strewn in various locations throughout their state. 

What do you enjoy about the position?

I have enjoyed working with schools to help them become accepted and maintain compliance with ever-changing federal regulations. These regulations certify veterans at their institutions and help those VA students receive the benefits they are entitled to. I’ve been able to create a community of SCOs (School Certifying Officials) at the schools and have given them opportunities to meet and support each other. This support is more valuable than trying to get answers in other places as most of them occupy school positions where administrators know little or nothing about the work of the SCOs. These positions are crucial in helping veterans receive their benefits and schools get their tuition. These hardworking people are often underpaid, overworked, undervalued and misunderstood on their campuses. It’s often a thankless job, and they should be appreciated for what they do to serve our veterans. If I’ve done even a little to shed some light on this, and to help the SCOs get the recognition they deserve, then my time here has been very well spent.

What did you do before being the SAA director that helped you in the position?

I spent about 20 years in various roles in higher education. Fifteen of those were at Chaminade University and another four and a half were in the University of Hawaii system, at both Leeward Community College and at UH Manoa. Of all the positions I held, perhaps the most helpful was early in my career when I was the director of a U.S. Department of Education “Trio” grant program at Chaminade. It was designed to assist low-income, first-generation and disabled students and to provide services to improve retention and graduation rates of those populations. It was helpful for the SAA Director job because it taught me about reading and interpreting federal regulations, knowing when things were clear cut, and when other things were open to some interpretation. The regulations guiding the utilization of VA benefits on a campus are similar in that way.

What were some of the challenges you faced during your tenure?

The first challenge was I took over the position after a five-year period when there was nobody (essentially) doing the job. The existence of the SAA is mandated by federal law, but Hawai‘i lost its SAA in 2014 and for five years, the VA sent people from the mainland to do the work for six months at a time. Schools were confused about any new regulations about the approval process. Every new person came with their own “focus” and their own interpretation of the regulations. Some schools took advantage of the lack of oversight, some gave up, most plugged away doing the best they could. 

Early in my tenure, someone at the VA told me, “There’s a mess in Hawaiʻi, and we’re hoping you can clean it up.” That was an entirely accurate statement. On top of that, many of my counterparts in other states told me, “It will take you two to three years before you feel like you know how to do this job well.” That was also accurate. 

On top of that, COVID occurred in spring 2020, before I was able to truly be trained, and shut down any training opportunities for about two years. So, my learning curve was extended, to say the least. Thankfully, I am now proud to say that I’ve made some great strides and the schools throughout the state are much better prepared to remain in compliance and be able to certify veterans properly at their schools.

What is/was the most interesting schools that you were able to get someone into?

Well, technically, I don’t really get any students “into a school.” Although sometimes the approval of a school is initiated by a veteran who wants to use their benefits there. I approve the school so that they may administer VA benefits to eligible students. 

When I first started this job, I was aware of all the traditional “Institutions of Higher Learning” (IHL) in the state, such as those in the UH system, Chaminade, BYU, HPU, etc. But I knew very little about the various “Non College Degree” (NCD) schools. These provide certification to veterans looking for a different path. For example, I’ve learned a great deal about schools in Hawaiʻi that train students for diving instruction, massage therapy, cybersecurity, esthetician, barbering/hair design, etc. It’s been fascinating to get to know those schools and to see the service they provide to their students and the community.

What advice would you give to the next director?

Part of the job is working with schools to get approved and to maintain that approval through their compliance with the regulations. In a sense, the director of the SAA is an advocate for the schools in working with the VA. Another part of the job is oversight, ensuring that schools are doing the right thing and assisting them in correcting if compliance issues are found. If more serious issues arise that lead the SAA to determine that something illegal is happening, it’s part of the job to work with the VA to hold schools accountable. It is sometimes a challenge to wear all these hats at the same time but finding that proper balance is a key part of the position.

What are your retirement plans?

My wife Eva and I will be living in the Philippines, where she is from. We have a house built there already, and we will be very close to her family. As for plans, I would say they are “might-y”. Might teach some yoga, might work with some orphanages, might continue some contract work with the VA, might teach some English, might connect with the dive resorts in the Philippines (there’s a ton of them!) – lots of “mights.”

The State of Hawaiʻi Department of Defense bids Aloha to Curtis, says Mahalo for a job well-done and wishes him the best of luck in retirement.

John Kahue was a great boss, coworker and friend

Longtime State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense (HIDOD) employee John J. Kahue was well-loved and respected by everyone he worked with. He passed away on May 14, 2025, at the age of 64. He was an integral part of our department and touched many of the projects and day-to-day operations. 

John was the General Labor Supervisor (I) and was responsible for the control, operation and supervision of the Grounds Maintenance Units. That section consists of the General Laborers, who are tasked with the maintenance and repairs of sites at multiple locations, like Fort Ruger, Diamond Head, Waiawa, Wahiawā, Wheeler, Waimanalo (Regional Training Institute), Hawaiʻi State Veterans Cemetery, Kalaeloa and the neighbor islands. 

John started with the HIDOD in 1980 as a Hawai‘i Army National Guard Groundskeeper, later moving to General Laborer (I) with the Hawai‘i Air National Guard. He continued in that position but was with the HIDOD Engineering Office starting in 1981. In 1982, he rose up to General Laborer (II), then became Truck Driver Laborer in 1984. He became the General Labor Supervisor (I) on May 23, 1994, a position he’s held for the last 31 years. 

Employee Harlan Tasaka shared his experience working with John. “Johnny was a great boss and always took care of his guys. He would always come in early to do paperwork or go on the road to check the progress of employees’ work.”  

“If the yard was overgrown, or if he wasn’t satisfied with the way it looked, you would see him on the lawnmower making the yard nice. Sometimes you would even see him with a weed whacker, cutting grass himself,” Tasaka said. 

“Employees will see things differently and get mad when things are difficult. Times like these, Johnny would talk to them about the problem and have it resolved.” 

His coworker and best friend, Patrick Tangonan, was honored to answer questions about John’s time with the department.

How would you describe John’s work ethic and professional and personal outlook?

As a professional he was very determined and always eager to learn — not afraid to get his hands dirty and work hard. His personal outlook was always being a happy-go-lucky guy. He was fun to be around  and always making people laugh and smile!

How was it working with John?

Working with John was a privilege and an honor. He was always laughing and cracking jokes. There was never a dull moment when he was around.

What is something that most people don’t know about him?

Something that most people don’t know about him was that he was a great cook, creating Hawaiian to Filipino food. Never trust a skinny cook. (LOL!)

What did you admire about John the most?

He would always find time to help everybody, from going to Wai‘anae at the last minute to help his sister unclog her toilet, coming to the rescue when his nephew got into an accident and got stuck on the freeway or being a caregiver to his longtime partner, Deb, while she was going through dialysis. He had endless acts of kindness for everyone who needed help — even strangers. He was a BIG MAN with a BIG HEART!

Is there anything you wish you had said to him or done with him?

If there is one that thing that I wish I could say to him is “I love you” and “thank you” for everything and for always being there for me and my family whenever I needed him. He was family! We worked together since 1980 at Hickam and here at Fort Ruger. He wasn’t just a co-worker, he was my best friend, I will truly miss him! You will never find another Hawaiian like him!

Hawai‘i Army National Guard provides aerial firefighting support in Kunia

Flight crews from the Hawai‘i Army National Guard flew a UH-60 Blackhawk and CH-47 Chinook with bambi buckets suspended to provide aerial firefighting support for the wildfire yesterday in Kunia. A total of 49,000 gallons of water were dispersed in 39 drops. As part of Gov. Josh Green’s emergency proclamation for wildfire season, the Hawaiʻi National Guard’s Operation Hoʻopauahi keeps an aircrew ready to provide aerial firefighting capabilities to augment county and state level first responder elements during the wildfire season.

– U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Olivia Cowart

Hawai‘i Army National Guard supports fire department during red flag warnings

Following a red flag warning of increased fire risk, the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard (HIARNG), staged in support of the Honolulu Fire Department with ground assets in a first-time collaboration for community safety. Soldiers assigned to the 297^th Engineer Detachment Firefighting Team, 103^rd Troop Command, HIARNG, went to Fire Station 28 in Nanakuli, Hawaiʻi with their M1158 Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck-based water tender on Aug. 1, 2025. During the visit Staff Sgt. John Segawa, a station chief assigned to the 297^th ENG DET, explained his equipment and capabilities including the water tender which holds 3,000 gallons. Above, fire crews from Nānākuli, Makakilo and the HIARNG meet with Dori Booth, the new State Fire Marshal and Maj. Gen. Stephen F. Logan, Adjutant General for the State of Hawaiʻi, to discuss the importance of interoperability amongst fire crews.

– Hawai‘i Army National Guard photos by Staff Sgt. John Schoebel

HIARNG represented at Na Koa Wounded Warrior Canoe Regatta

Three teams representing the Hawai‘i Army National Guard Outrigger Canoe participated in the Na Koa Canoe Regatta at Fort DeRussy Beach Park on Aug. 23. Launched in 2009, the Na Koa Wounded Warrior Canoe Regatta was created to assist recovering troops through the ‘healing power’ of the Hawaiian waters. The first event took place at the Pearl Harbor Marina with 67 teams from the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and other organizations. The event has since expanded to include a Youth Division, and to include our Gold Star Ohana in the Wounded Warrior Division. 

– U.S. Army National Guard photos by Sgt. 1st Class Jay Bal

History of the 1950th Support Detachment

By Rachel Blaire | State of Hawai‘i Department | of Defense Public Affairs

The 1950th Support Detachment was federally recognized Aug. 31, 2010 as the 1950th Contingency Contracting Team (1950th CCT) at Waiawa Armory in Pearl City, as a specialized element within the Hawai‘i Army National Guard. Formed to support contracting operations during contingency missions, the 1950th CCT was designed to deploy globally in support of both federal and domestic operations.

The unit is composed of nine Soldiers — two officers and seven enlisted personnel — who operate in close coordination with civilian contracting offices. The 1950th CCT achieved a major operational milestone with its deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from August 2013 to May 2014 with guardsmen being assigned to Contracting Centers at Bagram Airfield, Kabul, Kandahar, and Qatar.

Further demonstrating its versatility, the 1950th CCT supported Operation Longclaw in fiscal year 2020 and contributed vital contracting assistance to the State of Hawai‘i’s during its COVID-19 response. This marked the unit’s critical role in domestic emergency operations, highlighting its flexibility in serving both overseas and state-level missions.

Most recently, the 1950th CCT was successfully deployed from October 2023 to July 2024 in support of Operation Spartan Shield at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. In FY 2025 the 1950th CCT was redesignated as the 1950th Support Detachment (1950th SUP DET).

Since its establishment, the 1950th SUP DET has demonstrated professionalism, agility and mission focus in both wartime and peacetime roles. As a deployable contracting asset, it remains a key enabler of mission success for the Hawai‘i Army National Guard and its partners around the world.

The 154th Wing, located at Joint Base Pearl Harbor- Hickam, stands as the largest and most geographically diverse unit in the Air National Guard. Headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, we are charged with a dynamic mission: to provide combat-ready Airmen and equipment for both federal and state missions. With more than 2,000 highly trained Airmen across five major groups — Operations, Maintenance, Mission Support, Medical and Regional Support — our wing exemplifies Total Force Integration, seamlessly partnering with Active Duty and Reserve components to project power, protect the homeland and support our community.

This year focused on a multitude of exercises and deployments across the globe, enhancing interoperability and strengthening regional security. Here are some recent highlights and global engagements:

BALIKATAN 2025: 154th Security Forces Squadron provided force protection for 14,000+ U.S. and coalition personnel, enhancing regional defense ties in the Philippines.

NATO Deterrence Operations: The 292nd Combat Communications Squadron deployed across the USAFE-AFAFRICA Area Of Responsibility (AOR), delivering agile comms support for NATO and partner nations.

Theater Security Package: 199th Fighter Squadron deployed to Kadena AB, flying F-22 Raptors in joint missions with U.S. and Japanese forces — reinforcing a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Operation Midnight Hammer: The 154th Maintenance Group and 154th Operations Group supported B-1 and B-2 bomber movements from Guam to Diego Garcia, ensuring rapid global strike readiness via KC-135 refueling ops.

Medical Partnerships: The 154th Medical Group conducted Tactical Combat Casualty Care with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, strengthening allied life-saving capabilities.

Talisman Sabre 25: The 154th Wing deployed over 200 Airmen, along with F-22 Raptors, KC-135 Stratotankers, and C-17 Globemasters, to support Talisman Sabre 25, Australia’s premier military exercise. 

Sentry Aloha: For over two decades, Sentry Aloha has delivered tailored combat training to Air National Guard and joint forces as each iteration includes live-fly operations with visiting units, focused on elevating tactical proficiency and joint warfighting integration.

Resolute Space: As a new participant, the 109th Electromagnetic Warfare Squadron exercised and validated space-based warfighting capabilities, operating in a contested environment participating in the largest USSF exercise, Resolute Space.

Toxic Swell: Co-hosted by the 154th Civil Engineering Squadron, Toxic Swell sharpened CBRN emergency management skills with participants from the USMC, Air Force Reserve, and Australia, enhancing joint disaster response capability.

Human Spaceflight Support: The 204th Airlift Squadron trains and supports contingency astronaut rescue, encompassing airdrop recovery scenarios in open-ocean environments. 

Guam Tanker Task Force: The 203d Air Refueling Squadron maintains aerial refueling operations under the USINDOPACOM Theater Security Package, projecting airpower from the strategic hub of Guam.

State Partnership Program: Over decades, we have partnered with the Philippine and Indonesian militaries. Training and events include: disaster response & urban search and rescue, cybersecurity & peacekeeping, maintenance & logistics, aircrew training, tactical casualty care and officer & non-commissioned officer development

Upcoming missions

Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 26-01 (JPMRC): Set for November, JPMRC is Hawai‘i’s largest live-fly exercise, integrating thousands of troops and cargo across jungle, maritime, and mountain scenarios. It reinforces joint and multi-national operational readiness. 

New technologies or systems recently integrated

National Guard and Reserve Equipment Account (NGREA) Funded Equipment: NGB/A5R (a functional element within the National Guard Bureau’s A5 organization, specifically plans and requirements for the Air National Guard, responsible for development of new warfighting systems and operational capabilities) have worked with multiple personnel within the 154th Wing to procure essential, innovative equipment items that will enhance the 154th Wing’s readiness and capability to defend our homeland and project power into the USINDOPACOM AOR. Equipment includes:

154^th Maintenance Group

• Tow FLEXX for Military Aircraft Towing: remote-controlled, electric, towbarless aircraft tugs that will increase towing safety due to improved visibility, ease of use, precise controls and smaller footprint than that of traditional towing.
• Nitrogen Backpack & Stored Energy System Nitrogen Kits for F-22s and KC-135s for enabling Agile Combat Employment
• Specialized F-22 maintenance stands providing a safer and more efficient way to access the hard-to-reach areas of one of the world’s most advanced stealth aircraft. 

154^th Security Forces Squadron Armory Operations:

• The installation of the Modular Armory Vault System (MAVS) and the Smart Track Inventory System has eliminated 2 major and 1 minor deficiencies within the 154th SFS.
• The MAVS provides secure storage for more than 600 weapons and high-value assets, adds over 700 square feet of usable space, and introduces a dedicated weapons cleaning and maintenance area. Its state-of-the-art security features and efficient layout reduce weapons cleaning time from one hour per weapon to just 30 minutes.
• Complementing this upgrade, the Smart Track system streamlines weapons issue, turn-in, accountability, and cleaning processes. By leveraging RFID and barcode technology, Smart Track cuts man-hours by 50% — saving approximately four hours per drill weekend — and significantly reduces the risk of human error.

154^th Medical Group

The Air National Guard and its partnership with Operative Experience Inc. which) involves deploying advanced, high-fidelity medical simulators for tactical and trauma care training. Medical Technicians and Providers are provided with realistic hands-on practice to improve combat casualty care skills. 

The high-fidelity patient simulators are highly realistic and anatomically accurate,  include both male and female versions, designed to mimic a wide variety of combat injuries. The manikins feature lifelike skin and tissue that can be cut, and have realistic simulated features such as blinking eyes, airway complications, and “pulsatile” bleeding.  

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HIANG members help upkeep Hawaiʻi State Veterans Cemetery

A very big mahalo and appreciation to the members of the 298th Air Defense Group, Hawaiʻi Air National Guard (HIANG). Every month, members from the 298th Air Defense Group help pick up brown flowers at the grave markers and/or columbarium at the Hawaiʻi State Veterans Cemetery in Kāne‘ohe. Col. Keolani Bailey, Command Sgt. Bradley Spencer, Master Sgt. Kehau Villa-Hashimoto, Tech Sgt. Mathew Young, Airman 1st Class Noalei Malacas and  Airman 1st Class Jayton Pestana were joined by friends & family in the cleanup.

– Photos by Jayme Nagamine, State of Hawai‘i Office of Veterans’ Services

Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program event held on Kaua‘i

A Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program event was held Aug. 15-16 on Kaua‘i. It was presented by the Hawai‘i Army National Guard and Hawai‘i Air National Guard to support service members and their families as they navigate the transitions and challenges of deployment and reintegration. The gathering was a testament to our military community’s unwavering commitment, resilience and strength.

– Hawai‘i National Guard photos

NEW HIRES & TRANSFERS – STATE

Employee, Date, Position, Program

• Bugarin, George 7/16/25 Environmental Health Specialist IV HIARNG / ENV
• Salinas, Elvis 7/16/25 Emergency Management Reserve Corp Specialist HIEMA
• Fautanu, Leif 7/16/25 Operations Specialist (EMPG) HIEMA
• Kina, Bryan 7/16/25 Energy Management Control Specialist (fka EMCS Asst.) HIARNG / CFMO
• Magee, Dominique 7/16/25 Logistics Systems Specialist – Planning Unit (COVID19) HIEMA
• Tasato, Sharon 7/16/25 GIS Specialist HIARNG / CFMO
• Jordan, Brandon 7/18/25 Cadre YCA – Kalealoa
• Titsworth-Machado, Tynelle 7/28/25 Cadre YCA – Kalealoa
• AuYoung, Waylene 8/1/25 Grant Account Clerk ASO / FISCAL
• Fernandez, Joshua 8/1/25 Shift Leader YCA – HILO
• Furuya, Wayne 8/1/25 Distribution Worker (COVID 19) HIEMA
• Howe, Shawn 8/1/25 State Warning Point Supervisor HIEMA
• Keomalu, Marc 8/1/25 Siren Program Assistant – WF HIEMA
• Pudiquet, Jonathan 8/1/25 Janitor II ENG / MAINTENANCE
• Lee, Raymond 8/1/25 Contracts Assistant I ENG
• Robella, Steven 8/1/25 Emergency Management Reserve Corp Specialist HIEMA
• Vigil, Juan 8/1/25 EOC Operations & Threat Specialist HIEMA
• Walker, Bryson 8/1/25 Mentor Coordinator YCA – HILO
• Ahue, Aaron 8/6/25 Radio Tech I HIEMA
• Kealoha, Lena 8/7/25 DA Office Assistant — May 18 Kileauea HIEMA
• Rubalcava, Jack 8/7/25 DA Program Specialist – May 18 Kilauea HIEMA
• Silva, David 8/8/25 Cadre YCA – Kalealoa
• Spencer, Emmalee 8/18/25 Emergency Management Reserve Corp Specialist HIEMA
• Hoeksema, Jordan 8/18/25 Logistics Management Officer (COVID19) HIEMA
• Wren, Joseph 8/18/25 Emergency Management Reserve Corp Specialist HIEMA
• Kauffman, Lloyd 8/18/25 General Laborer III ENG / MAINTENANCE / KMR
• Kawamura, Kalaimehana 8/18/25 General Laborer II (Burial Team) ENG / MAINTENANCE / HSVC
• King, Harvy 8/18/25 Regionald Catastrophic Planner (EMGP) HIEMA
• Sevaaetasi, Neomi 8/18/25 Case Manager YCA – KALAELOA
• Agbayani, Arlina 8/19/25 Logistics Planner (COVID19) OTG
• Foreg, Ryan 8/20/25 Cadre YCA – Hilo
• Aburamen, Angela 9/2/25 Veterans Services Counselor II OVS / HILO
• AuYoung, Waylene 9/2/25 Account Clerk II ASO / FISCAL
• Holley, Jeraldine 9/2/25 Lead Counselor YCA – HILO
• Kukona, Kaponoponaikaiolani 9/2/25 Emergency Management Reserve Corp Specialist HIEMA
• Ugalde, Jonette 9/2/25 Lead Instructor YCA – HILO
• Vero, Carols 9/2/25 EOC Warning Officer HIEMA
• Williams, Javier 9/15/25 Cadre YCA – KALAELOA
• Angeles, Geronimo 9/16/25 Building Maintenance Supervisor I HIANG / 154TH CES
• Baustisa, Alexis 9/16/25 Tractor Operator HIANG / 154TH CES
• Iwasaki, Heather 9/16/25 Engineer V ENG
• Chen, Jeffrey 9/16/25 Engineer II ENG
• Kamai, Devin 9/16/25 Buidling Maintenance Worker I ENG / MAINTENANCE
• Poyo, Vince 9/16/25 Building Maintenance Worker I (Burial) ENG / MAINTENANCE / HSVC
• Scholzen, Hannah 9/16/25 Design & Project Manager HIARNG / CFMO
• Liedtke, Shayne 9/16/25 Emergency Management Reserve Corp Specialist HIEMA
• Yugawa, Rayson 9/16/25 Accountant III ASO / FISCAL

NEW HIRES & TRANSFERS – FEDERAL

Employee, Date, Position, Organization

• Ford, Randall 7/28/25 Personnel Security Specialist 154 WG, HIANG
• Sta Maria, Mark James 8/25/25 Telecommunications Specialist 154 OPS Sq, HIANG
• Okawa, Braden 9/7/25 Aircraft Electrician 154 Amx Sq, HIANG