2025 Pūpūkahi | Volume 55 | No. 3

FOURTH OF JULY PARADE

Hawai‘i, Kansas join musical forces

In celebration of Independence Day, the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard’s 111^th Army Band proudly joined forces with the 312^th Army Band, U.S. Army Reserves, based out of Kansas, to form a unified marching band ensemble for the Kailua Fourth of July Parade along Kainalu Drive. The 312^th AB was in Hawai’i for its annual training. 

– Hawai‘i National Guard photos by 1^st Lt. Mark Primeaux and Sgt. Daniel Tiamzon

Hawai‘i Medical Readiness Detachment holds change of command ceremony

HAWAI‘I ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

The Hawai‘i Medical Readiness Detachment change of command ceremony between Col. Janet G. Lundberg and Col. Joseph S. Kushi took place on June 8 in Kalaeloa. The ceremony is a time-honored tradition within the Army that commemorates the relinquishment of command by passing the unit’s colors from one officer to another.

– U.S. Army National Guard photos by Spc. Angelina Melia Blen

Exercise focuses on cyber attack response

HAWAI‘I ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

By Ruben Duldulao

State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense Public Affairs

The Hawai‘i Army National Guard (HIARNG) virtually hosted as “Blue Team 12” in Exercise Locked Shields 2025 from Apr. 27 to May 9. The remote exercise was held at HIARNG Building 19 in Kalaeloa and was led by Maj. Eric Madarang and Chief Warrant Officer 3 Evan Parubrub-Kahaulelio.

Locked Shields, a full-spectrum computer-assisted, cyber-defense exercise, is considered the most complex technical challenge in the field. It provides a unique, high-pressure environment to test and refine capabilities across a wide range of cyber operations. 

“This exercise challenges us with large-scale, complex, live-fire cyber engagements. Our team is tasked with defending and remediating cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure in a fictional scenario,” shared Madarang, HIARNG Team Chief of Defensive Cyber Operations.

“Events in the cyber domain ripple into the physical, logical and information domains. It’s an incredible opportunity for our team to sharpen their skills against real threats and compete with cyber professionals.”

This is the 15^th iteration of Locked Shields which was hosted by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in Estonia and it is the second time that the HIARNG has participated. “Blue Team 12” were augmented by another Pacific-region team and operated on Estonia’s time zone.

All participants from the U.S. team have a background in cybersecurity, with varying levels of expertise. 

“Everyone is a volunteer,” said Madarang “Some soldiers bring valuable civilian work experience that doesn’t always align with their military occupation.”

Team members participating in person included seven HIARNG members, four Hawai‘i Air National Guardsmen, two from the West Virginia National Guard, as well as Title 10 partners from the U.S. Army 3rd Multi-Domain Task Force’s (3MDTF), Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) and Defense Information Systems Agency Pacific (DISA PAC). They were part of a nationwide team of 250 participants with 17 other teams worldwide. 

First-time participant Sgt. Chuma Humphrey from the 3MDTF attended the exercise focused on forensics.

“My biggest thing is getting more familiarity with the process of analyzing computers, especially in a joint setting,” Humphrey said. 

He shared that the first week was getting familar with the teams, figuring out who they were working with and how to contribute. 

“A lot of administrative organization, teams setting up communication channels and figuring out who can do what,” Humphrey said.

Cybersecurity has long been a national priority and as technology evolves, so do the threats, shared Madarang. 

“We live in a digital age, and it’s critical to defend the systems that support our way of life,” Madarang said “Critical infrastructure — like power, water, communications, government, and healthcare — is essential to every community.

We’ll take the lessons learned and apply them to future state-level activities. This was a significant milestone for the Hawai‘i National Guard and our local partners. I hope we can incorporate similar events locally to strengthen our own cyber defense programs.”

93rd CST spearheads O‘ahu training exercise

Governor’s Memorial Day Ceremony 

The State Office of Veterans’ Services hosted the Governor’s Memorial Day Ceremony on May 26, 2025, at the Hawai‘i State Veterans Cemetery in Kāneʻohe, Hawaiʻi. Gov. Josh Green provided the Memorial Day Address and spoke about three local veterans and how their service and sacrifice should always be remembered.

“As we reflect on the lives of the veterans we honored today, their courage, their sacrifice, their aloha, we are reminded that remembrance is not a single day, but a lifelong commitment,” Green said. “Let us carry forward their memories with purpose. Let us remember always — not only with solemnity, but with gratitude, action and love.”

The Ceremony included an opening Oli (prayer) by Pualeilani-Paiea Kamahoahoa, a Parade of Veterans Service organizations escorted by the Nā Kula Alaka‘i (Youth Challenge Academy), musical performances by the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard’s 111^th Army Band and Jeanne Oliveira. The Colors were provided by Joint Service Color Guard from U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and the Hawai‘i Air National Guard’s Royal Guard. There was a CH-47 flyover from the Hawai‘i Army National Guard, the laying of state and military wreaths and a tribute to veteran Dr. John Henry Felix who had recently passed. Felix donated all of the land that the Hawai‘i State Veterans Cemetery now sits.

– Photos by Master Sgt. (Ret) Andrew Jackson, State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense Public Affairs

HAWAI‘I AIR NATIONAL GUARD HISTORY

‘A new era takes flight’ – Hawai‘i’s F-22 Raptors

By Rachel Blaire

State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense Public Affairs

On July 9, 2010, the skies over Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam shimmered with anticipation. Down on the flight line, a crowd gathered — Guardsmen, active-duty Airmen, state officials and families — awaiting the arrival of a sleek, unfamiliar silhouette in the distance. As the roar of jet engines drew closer, two F-22 Raptors broke through the horizon, ushering in a new era for the Hawai‘i Air National Guard (HIANG).

This wasn’t just the arrival of new aircraft. It was the beginning of a historic transformation — a move decades in the making that would redefine Hawai‘i’s role in national defense.

Draped in a traditional maile lei by Lt. Col. Harvey “Banger” Newton, his wife and Staff Sgt. Joel Herman, the Raptor was formally welcomed to its new home, marking not only a military milestone, but a deeply symbolic connection to the land and people it would now help protect.

U. S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye stood proudly on the tarmac; his voice steady as he addressed the crowd. “The presence of the F-22 demonstrates the importance of this area in the Pacific Command,” he declared. Beside him, Hawaiʻi Gov. Linda Lingle said the arrival of the F-22 Raptors is a testament to the “unique relationship” between Hawai‘i and the United States Air Force.

The F-22 Raptor, the most advanced fighter aircraft in the world, would replace the F-15 Eagles flown by the HIANGʻs 199^th Fighter Squadron since 1987. But this wasn’t just about aircraft — it was about partnership. For the first time in history, an Air National Guard unit would lead an associate flying unit, with 75 percent of operations handled by the 154^th Wing, HIANG and the remainder by active-duty counterparts in the 19th Fighter Squadron, 15^th Wing’s.

The Total Force Integration model wasn’t new, but Hawai‘i was blazing an original trail: a Guard-led Raptor squadron, operating out of one of the nation’s most strategically vital locations. “We are a day closer to the fight,” said Lt. Col. James Sage, HIANG fighter pilot and conversion officer, noting the state’s key role as a logistical and operational hub in the Pacific.

Behind the scenes, the transition was well underway. Pilots trained at Tyndall Air Force Base, undergoing an intensive four-month program. As of September, only two Raptors and three trained pilots were in place, but the pace was set — two aircraft per month, with 20 total Raptors expected by November.

Adapting to the aircraft’s cutting-edge stealth and internal weapons systems meant Hawai‘i had to build new infrastructure, including a Low Observable Composite Repair Facility, a relocated ramp to safely house armed Raptors, and a state-of-the-art simulator, slated for completion in 2014. “This will really help us deflect overall cost and greatly enhance our F-22 training,” said Sage.

The message was clear: Hawai‘i’s Air National Guard was ready for what was next.

“The arrival of the F-22 speaks volumes for the importance of Hawai‘i’s geographic and strategic position in our nation’s defense,” said Gen. Craig McKinley, Chief of the National Guard Bureau.

For the Guard, for the state, and for the nation, the arrival of the F-22 wasn’t just the delivery of a jet — it was a commitment to readiness, partnership, and air dominance in the Pacific for generations to come.

References: 2007 November – 2008 March Pūpūkahi,  2009 June Kūkāʻilimoku, 2009 December Kūkāʻilimoku, 2010 Annual Report,  2010 April – May Kūkāʻilimoku , 2010 June Kūkāʻilimoku, 2010 July Kūkāʻilimoku, 2010 August Kūkāʻilimoku, 2010 October Kūkāʻilimoku 

29^th Infantry Brigade Combat Team Memorial Day Ceremony

HAWAI‘I ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

The 29^th Infantry Brigade Combat Team conducted a Memorial Day ceremony on Friday, May 23, at its headquarters in Kalaeloa. The ceremony included a reading of the 46 members of the unit who died in action from the Vietnam War to Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

– Photos by Master Sgt. (Ret) Andrew Jackson, State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense Public Affairs

HAWAI‘I ARMY NATIONAL GUARD HISTORY

Hawaiʻi’s Finest: Courage from the Korean War

By Rachel Blaire

State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense Public Affairs

In the shadow of the jagged Korean mountains and in the cold of a brutal war far from home, three sons of Hawaiʻi answered the call with courage, sacrifice, and service that would define not only their own lives, but the enduring legacy of the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard in the Korean War. Their names: Spc. 2nd Class Francis H. Wright, Pfc. Anthony T. Kahoʻohanohano, and Maj. Rudolph P. Wipperman. Together, their stories reflect the quiet strength, tenacity and honor carried by Hawaiʻi’s Citizen-Soldiers in one of America’s most strenuous conflicts.

Pfc. Anthony T. Kahoʻohanohano – Valor Immortalized

His valor inspired a battlefield reversal and a legacy that would be enshrined in the highest traditions of military heroism. Initially awarded the Distinguished Service Cross in 1952, his family fought for decades to see his sacrifice fully recognized. In 2011, Kahoʻohanohano was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, ensuring that his heroism would never be forgotten. In 2017 the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard Pu‘unēnē Armory was dedicated to Pfc. Anthony T. Kahoʻohanohano. 

Maj. Rudolph P. Wipperman – The Old Mountain Goat

While some fought with rifles and grenades, Maj. Rudolph P. Wipperman, a physician and Regimental Surgeon from the 299^th Infantry Regiment, Hawaiʻi Army National Guard brought healing under fire. Though considered too old by some for frontline service, he demanded to serve in the field, not in the rear. Wipperman quickly found himself embedded with the 31^st Infantry Regiment of the 7^th Infantry Division, one of the battle-hardened units in Korea.

For two months, he served alongside riflemen in Korea’s rugged terrain, treating the wounded and overseeing medical support in the harshest of conditions. His personal visits to forward aid stations earned him the nickname “Old Mountain Goat,” a title he bore proudly as he climbed treacherous trails to be with his men. He bore witness to the selfless bravery of litter bearers, often carrying wounded soldiers under fire for six or more hours through mountainous terrain.

In a letter to Brig. Gen. Makinney, the Adjutant General of the Hawai‘i Army National Guard, Wipperman wrote, “It is a privilege to help these men who depend so much on us… It doesn’t seem like a sacrifice, but a privilege to have a part in this great effort.” His service exemplified the heart of the Guard’s medical corps — skilled, devoted and fearless.

Spc. 2nd Class Francis H. Wright – Survivor of Hardship

When the Armistice was signed in 1953, Wright was released and returned home to Hawaiʻi. Though physically free, the mental and emotional weight of captivity would follow him for years. Still, his spirit remained unbroken. In February 1954, just months after his release, Wright rejoined the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard. He served faithfully for decades, eventually rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant and transferring to the U.S. Army Reserves in 1988. His journey — from capture to lifelong service — made him a living testament to perseverance, resilience and duty.

Legacy of Service

The Korean War tested the mettle of the United States and of the Hawaiʻi National Guard. Wright’s survival, Kahoʻohanohano’s sacrifice and Wipperman’s steadfast care form a trinity of service — endurance, valor, and compassion — that reflects the very best of what the Citizen-Soldier can offer.

Though the Korean War is often referred to as “The Forgotten War,” the deeds of these three men ensure that for the people of Hawaiʻi — and for anyone who learns their stories — will never be forgotten. Their lives, woven into the legacy of the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard, continue to inspire generations of service members who stand ready, as they once did, to answer the call.

References: Warriors: Pu’ Ali Koa by Lincoln C. Yamashita pp. 68, Hawai‘i Army National Guard Record, Department of Defense, 1951 December Hawai‘i Guardsmen 

Hawai‘i Job Challenge Academy Class 2 Graduation

Thirteen associates graduated from Class 2 of the Hawai‘i Job Challenge Academy on Thursday, June 12 during a ceremony held at the Keaukaha Military Reservation Hilo Gym. These graduates demonstrated exceptional hard work, perseverance and commitment. Among them, three associates formed Limited Liability Companies, launching their own businesses in body sculpting and permanent makeup. Six associates completed their OSHA 10 training and construction certifications, while two earned their medical assistant certifications. Additionally, one associate became a certified phlebotomist and another earned a basic mechanical skills certification. Congratulations to all the graduates.

– Photos by Master Sgt. (Ret) Andrew Jackson, State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense Public Affairs 

Hawai‘i Youth Challenge Academy O‘ahu Class 62 Graduation

Class 62 of the Hawai‘i Youth Challenge Academy Oahu held its graduation ceremony on Saturday, June 14 at the Tom Moffatt Waikiki Shell. A total of 52 graduates represented Class 62, with 81% receiving their HiSET diplomas. They completed 3,427 hours of service to the community, saving the state around $47,978. YCA enlisted its first cadet into the Army National Guard early in the program where he was able to attend monthly drills while attending YCA. Four cadets enlisted in the Hawai‘i Air National Guard before graduation and two cadets committed to the United States Marine Corp.

– Photos by Master Sgt. (Ret) Andrew Jackson, State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense Public Affairs

A look back at disaster response training

HAWAI‘I NATIONAL GUARD

By Rachel Blaire

State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense Public Affairs

Exercise Vigilant Guard / Makani Pāhili (VG/MP15) was a series of joint training exercises conducted in Hawaiʻi to enhance disaster response capabilities across local, state and federal agencies. These exercises were designed to improve preparedness for large-scale disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, chemical spills and cyber attacks. They brought together a diverse range of participants from military branches, local agencies, private industries and even international partners, ensuring a comprehensive, multifaceted approach to disaster management.

One of the standout components of the exercise was the Alternate Port Concept (APC), demonstrated at Joint Base Pearl Harbor- Hickam, which simulated the use of alternate ports to transport cargo when the primary Port of Honolulu was incapacitated. The exercise featured a specially-designed crane that offloaded containers from barges, marking the first time the Navy base opened its port to civilian traffic. This exercise was crucial in strengthening partnerships among the Navy, Hawaiʻi National Guard, local government and private industries, such as Young Brothers and Matson, to ensure a continued supply chains during a major disaster.

Another key element was the Poʻoihe Cyber Security Exercise, which involved teams working to defend critical infrastructures such as the energy sector from cyberattacks. Hawaiʻi’s dependence on essential services like water plants, power grids and telecommunication makes these sectors vulnerable during times of crisis. Participants, including personnel from Hitachi Japan, California National Guard and local agencies, tested their abilities to defend against cyber threats while also dealing with real-world complications such as a pandemic outbreak triggered by the hurricane. 

A significant portion of VG/MP15 focused on search and rescue operations, including the Kalaeloa Rubble Pile Exercise. This scenario simulated a disaster with collapsed buildings and hazardous materials. The exercise included the response from the Oregon National Guard’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive Enhanced Response Force Package, which trained to evacuate victims while dealing with chemical spills, caused by the hurricane. Soldiers and Airmen worked together to handle over 50 role players, simulating various injuries and hazardous situations, testing their response time and ability to manage such crises in coordination with Civil Support Teams and other agencies.

The 199^th Weather Flight of the Hawaiʻi Air National Guard played a vital role by providing real-time weather forecasts, crucial for operational planning. Their weather assessments, based on data from the National Weather Service and the Central Pacific Hurricane Center, informed decisions on relief missions, flight operations and damage assessment. 

Overall, Vigilant Guard / Makani Pāhili exercises serve as a platform to integrate military and civilian resources, allowing agencies to work together and refine their disaster response protocols. The 2015 exercise demonstrated the critical importance of inter-agency collaboration, cybersecurity preparedness, and environmental readiness in the face of large-scale emergencies, laying the groundwork for continued partnership and disaster resilience in Hawaiʻi and beyond.

References: 2015 Annual Report, 2015 June Pūpūkahi

Safety stressed at annual HIARNG workshop 

HAWAI‘I ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

By Ruben Duldulao

State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense Public Affairs

The Hawai‘i Army National Guard (HIARNG) hosted its annual safety workshop on Friday, May 16 at the 298^th Regiment, Regional Training Institute in Waimānalo. The workshop was open to all unit safety officers, commanders and full-time supervisors.

“The purpose of the workshop is to bring HIARNG safety officers together in one venue to reinforce safety culture, review policies and procedures, share best practices and enhance readiness and professional development,” says HIARNG Safety Manager Chief Warrant Officer 5 John Yim. 

Brig. Gen. Walter Ross Jr., Director of the Hawai‘i National Guard Joint Staff, provided the opening remarks.  

“With the right approach, a culture of safety can be achieved and always sustained,” Ross said. “Safety is just not one thing or one day, it is a continuum that requires you to be at your best every single day.”  

Two safety awards were presented before the start of the workshop. 

The Unit Safety Excellence Award was given to Lt. Col. Natalie Hayes and Maj. Adam Herrman from the Recruiting and Retention Battalion. Chief Warrant Officer 3 Nyles Nakama received the Individual Contribution to Safety Excellence Award.

Col. Anthony Laier, Army National Guard Liaison and Master Sgt. Robert McGraw, Ground/Tactical Mishap Investigator from the Army Combat Readiness Center, were guest presenters at the workshop. 

Also presenting were Capt. Justina Buck and Chief Warrant Officer 3 Ryan Rohrner from the National Guard Bureau Aviation and Safety Directorate.

Yim said the workshop met the expectations and was very productive. 

“It successfully promoted HIARNG safety and occupational health programs to our safety officers to [help] ensure a healthy and safe work environment is present for all HIARNG soldiers, civilians and contractors,” Yim said. “We are planning on conducting this [workshop] around the same time every year in order for us to get our message across prior to annual training.”

The workshop was coordinated by the HIARNG Safety and Occupational Health Team that included Roger Goodwin, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Sun Min Chun-Dayondon (Safety and Occupational Health Specialists) and Micah Kubo and Sgt. Cassandra Park (Occupational Health/Industrial Hygiene).

MEDICAL EXCHANGE

Hawai‘i Guard, Philippine Armed Forces unite

By Tech. Sgt. John Linzmeier

154^th Wing, Hawai‘i Air National Guard

CAMP O’DONNELL, Philippines — Hawai‘i National Guard medical professionals completed their fourth annual Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) exchange with partners from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) at Camp O’Donnell May 18-30.

The Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE), facilitated by the Department of Defense National Guard Bureau State Partnership Program, helped 85 medical and non-medical personnel develop critical life-saving skills.

For the first time, an AFP instructor corps was qualified through the training to teach follow-up courses, a significant step toward developing a standardized medical training curriculum aligned with U.S. standards.

The training was tailored to support AFP participants at the Peacekeeping Operations Center, which is responsible for preparing personnel for United Nations peacekeeping missions, with a focus on stabilizing volatile regions through the use of military strength.

“This initiative has been greatly enriched by the collaboration between the Peacekeeping Operations School, the Peacekeeping Operations Center and Subject-Matter Experts from the Hawai‘i National Guard through the Joint United States Military Assistance Group-Philippines,” said Philippine Army Maj. Gen. Pedro C. Balisi Jr., Armor Pambato Division commander. “Their invaluable insights and shared commitment to advancing combat casualty care have deepened the training experience, fostering an exchange of best practices that will elevate our operational capabilities to new heights.”

The two-week SMEE was divided into two five-day programs. From May 18-22, Hawai‘i National Guard staff trained 36 AFP nurses and training managers as TCCC instructors, equipping them to deliver future courses. The 20-module curriculum covered topics such as hemorrhage control, airway and breathing management, shock recognition, hypothermia prevention, eye injuries, fractures, burns and wound treatment. Training included lectures, hands-on practice and videos, culminating in a mass casualty field exercise on the fifth day to validate instructor readiness.

From May 26-30, the newly certified AFP instructors taught 49 members of the AFP’s Quick Reaction Force (QRF), including Army Rangers, infantry, artillery and combat engineers, with Hawai‘i National Guard medics evaluating their performance. The QRF acquired critical combat life support skills, ensuring readiness for potential deployments in peacekeeping and combat operations. The week ended with another mass casualty exercise, testing participants’ ability to practice their skills in realistic combat scenarios.

Each week’s field training exercise FTX replicated combat zone stresses, with participants assigned roles as patients, medics, security teams or litter teams navigating complex terrain.

The multinational instructor team incorporated intense simulated stressors, such as explosive charges and patients inflicted with photo-realistic injuries while under attack from a hostile ambush, giving the students a sense of multidirectional chaos. This immersive approach rigorously tested TCCC skills, honing trainees’ ability to deliver rapid, life-saving responses under the heat of a contested battle space.

“One of the most critical lessons TCCC imparts is conditioning medics to keep treating patients under extreme pressure,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. Sanders Sandoval, 154^th Medical Group Detachment 1 TCCC officer-in-charge. “Amid the chaos of gunshots, IEDs [improvised explosive devices] and intense yelling, we saw high performers staying focused, treating patient after patient. In combat, you get one shot to save a life, and that’s the standard we train for — operators who never freeze, who seize every moment to save as many lives as possible.”

TCCC, a cornerstone of military medical training, emphasizes combat life support techniques to address life-threatening injuries before patients are relocated to a hospital. It covers care under fire, tactical field care and tactical evacuation care, enabling medics and non-medical personnel, such as infantry and combat engineers, to significantly reduce fatalities in conflict zones.

This milestone event highlighted the Hawai‘i National Guard’s dedication to mutual learning and interoperability with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, equipping participants with essential combat life support skills for both combat and peacekeeping missions.

“Marking 25 years of the Hawai‘i-Philippines State Partnership,” Sandoval said, “we are committed to fostering a sustainable model for medical training and evacuation capabilities. Through shared goals, our leaders and warfighters strive to grow together, aspiring to integrate advanced TCCC techniques into standard operating procedures to prepare for future challenges.”

By certifying AFP instructors and training the Quick Reaction Force, this TCCC Subject Matter Expert Exchange strengthened the partnership, fostering trust and advancing a shared vision of readiness for United Nations peacekeeping and regional security, ensuring both forces are prepared to save lives in high-pressure environments.

111^th Army Band battles it out at 2025 Summer Engagement

The Hawaiʻi Army National Guard’s 111^th Army Band’s combined brass band performed at the 2025 U.S. Indo-Pacific Command summer engagement in honor of Hawai‘i community partners at Pearl Harbor on July 2. They were honored to take part of USINDOPACOM’s first ever Battle of the Bands which comprised of the U.S. Military bands across O’ahu. 

– U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class John Bellino

Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency

HIEMA celebrates community spirit, preparedness on Lānaʻi 

By Kīele Amundson

Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency

The Lānaʻi Community Association recently hosted the 2025 Lānaʻi Pineapple Festival on July 5, 2025. The event brought the community together to celebrate the vibrant spirit of the island. The Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA) attended the day-long festival that was filled with entertainment, cultural displays and family-friendly activities showcasing the unique heritage of Lānaʻi and its people.

A noteworthy aspect of this year’s festival was the emphasis on community engagement regarding emergency preparedness. HIEMA shared a space with the Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) to educate almost 500 attendees on the importance of disaster readiness. This collaborative effort was well received by Lānaʻi resident Sylvia Young, who expressed her appreciation for the information shared. 

“Preparedness is vital for our community,” Young said. “It’s reassuring to see our agencies working together to share such important information with the public. Knowing we have these resources makes us feel safer.”

Attendees were treated to diverse cultural performances, including hula, Polynesian, and Filipino dancers, accompanied by talented local musicians. A highlight of the day was the availability of free, fresh-cut  pineapples. While enjoying the event, HIEMA staff members shared the importance of preparing for the current disaster season that Hawai‘i is in (hurricane and wildfire) and what goes into a 14-day preparedness kit.  

HIEMAs Communications Director Kīele Amundson reflected on the importance of the event.

“We truly appreciate the hospitality of the residents and the beauty of Lānaʻi,” Amundson said. “Events like the festival strengthen our community spirit while allowing us to share vital preparedness information. It’s great to see everyone come together in such a positive way.”

As evening approached, the festival continued with a concert and concluded in a spectacular light show finale, featuring a multitude of drones illuminating the night sky.

This was the first time that HIEMA has attended the festival and it will undoubtedly return next year. The success of the festival spotlighted the incredible sense of unity among Lānaʻi’s residents, ensuring that the spirit of the island remains strong, while also prioritizing the safety and preparedness of the community.

Sen. McKelvey visits Daniel K. Akaka State Veterans Home

By Jayme Nagamine

State of Hawai‘i Office of Veterans’ Services

On July 10, 2025, staff from the State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense (HIDOD), Accounting and General Services and Office of Veterans’ Services (OVS) gave a tour of the Daniel K. Akaka State Veterans Home to State Sen. Angus McKelvey and his staff.  He was briefed on the progress and planning for the third Hawai‘i State Veterans Home Maui (HI SVH Maui) project.  

Sen. McKelvey was pleased with progress of the Maui facility and glad that it would potentially be located right next to a major highway with easy access for Maui-based veterans. 

“Maui’s veterans have had to face heartbreaking choices of being separated from their families to go into care elsewhere. I’m grateful for the support of our colleagues as well as the state and federal defense department in helping us to move this project forward so that there can be a home for our Maui veterans to age gracefully next to the ones they love, in the place they love,” Sen. McKelvey said.

Plans are coming together for the HI SVH Maui project. Currently, the HI SVH Maui project is #87 on the National VA SVH Construction Grant FY25 Priority List. The $35 million state match for HI SVH Maui was approved by the Hawai‘i State Legislature in the 2025 session as House Bill 300, Act 250, SLH 2025 and signed by Gov. Josh Green. 

Brig. Gen. (Ret) Neal Mitsuyoshi, HIDOD Military Support Officer and Director of Legislative Affairs, says the Daniel K. Akaka State Veterans Home represents a major milestone for veteran care in Hawai‘i and serves as the flagship facility in our state. 

“Its completion reflects a decade of collaboration and commitment across state agencies. This progress would not have been possible without the strong foundation laid by dedicated leaders such as former OVS Director and retired Colonel Ron Han and the Department of Defense’s Adjutant General, Major General Steve Logan,” Mitsuyoshi said.

“We are also fortunate to have received consistent, bipartisan support for both the DKA SVH and the proposed Hawai‘i State Veterans Home on Maui, and owe special thanks to Sen. Hashimoto, Rep. Yamashita, Sen. McKelvey, Rep. Amato, Rep. Miyake, and our Hawai‘i Congressional Delegation,” Mitsuyoshi said.

HIDOD are now able to “certify” the state match and thus trigger eligibility for a $58 million federal match. Ultimately, this state/federal jointly funded project will culminate in a $93 million “state-of-the-art” long-term care facility centrally located in the Pulehunui District Maui with anticipated opening in 2031.

“We deeply appreciate the tremendous support in this past legislative session by Gov. Green, plus many other Administration and Legislative leaders moving our $35 million state match for the Hawai‘i State Veterans Home Maui through the legislative approval process,” Office of Veterans’ Services’ Healthcare Coordinator Tommy Driskill said. 

“Not only will this new facility greatly benefit our entire Maui County community, but specifically it will offer care not currently available on Maui for Veterans, their spouses and Gold Star parents. This project is all about caring for our Veterans who richly deserve every possible recognition for the selfless service they have provided our country,” Driskill said.

The plans for the HI SVH Maui project are to have a 60-bed home, with each room having a private bath. The 70,000 sq.-ft single-story facility will be built on seven acres of a 10-acre land plot in the Pulehunui District. 

All the agencies involved have lessons learned constructing the first two Hawai‘i State Veterans Homes — the Yukio Okutsu SVH on Hawai‘i Island and the Akaka SVH in Kapolei.

“This is exactly what we need right now on the island of Maui,” Sen. McKelvey said. 

History of the State of Hawai‘i Office of Veterans’ Services

By Rachel Blaire

State of Hawai‘i Department of Defense Public Affairs

The State of Hawai‘i Office of Veterans’ Services (OVS) was formally established on July 1, 1988, by Act 115/88 of the Hawai‘i State Legislature. This marked a pivotal reorganization in how the state served its veteran population, transitioning responsibilities from the Department of Human Services. With the creation of OVS, Veteran Service Counselors were consolidated into the new office, which immediately undertook major initiatives including the planning of the Hawai‘i State Veterans Cemetery (HSVC) to address the impending capacity limits at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl). A site in Kāne‘ohe was selected, and by 1989, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) had approved federal matching funds for the cemetery’s phased development.

Rounding out the decade, OVS expanded its physical presence by opening dedicated offices on Neighbor Islands and relocating its headquarters to a more central Honolulu location. The State Legislature also created advisory bodies, including the Advisory Board on Veterans Services and the State Commission on Memorials, to guide veteran representation and memorialization efforts.

The 1990s were characterized by significant growth and development despite economic challenges. The HSVC was dedicated in 1991 and rapidly became a vital burial site, with thousands interred by decade’s end. Neighbor island veterans’ cemeteries in West Hawai‘i, Moloka‘i, Maui, and Lāna‘i were constructed or expanded, supported by substantial federal grants. Legislative and program expansions included assistance for Filipino-American World War II veterans, disabled veterans’ housing grants and development of new veterans’ centers on O‘ahu and Hawai‘i Island.

From the early 2000s, OVS continued to strengthen its services, operating from the VA’s E-Wing at Tripler Army Medical Center, fostering closer collaboration with VA healthcare and benefits offices. The HSVC underwent critical infrastructure upgrades and OVS took on statewide inspection and maintenance of all eight veterans cemeteries. Community outreach broadened, with programs such as Homeless Veterans Stand Downs and benefits briefings for deployed troops. 

The 2010s saw OVS continuing to organize commemorations like the Governor’s Veterans Day Ceremony and Memorial Day Ceremony. Community partnerships flourished, including collaborations with the Women’s Community Correctional Center, Girl Scouts of Hawai‘i, and military units.

Veterans’ cemeteries across the state benefited from extensive federal funding leading to new maintenance facilities, crypts, columbariums and multi-service veterans’ centers that combined VA outpatient clinics and OVS offices. 

Throughout the 2020s, OVS maintained its leadership in honoring veterans, expanding services and fostering partnerships. Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, OVS adapted with virtual ceremonies and outreach, including a virtual Veterans Day Concert and hosting the Wall That Heals Vietnam Veterans Memorial replica.

Through persistent commitment to expanding access to benefits, developing veterans’ cemeteries, fostering community partnerships and enhancing memorial traditions, OVS has ensured that the sacrifices and service of Hawai‘i’s veterans are recognized and respected. As the veteran population continues to change and grow, OVS remains poised to adapt and lead with innovative programs, strengthened collaborations, and a steadfast dedication to those who have served.

The 201 AOG is the only Air Operations Center Total Force Integration unit in the Air National Guard. As such, it is a significant partner in the Pacific Air Operations Center Enterprise, which plans and executes Air Force joint and combined operations to meet USINDOPACOM regional strategy; as well as assists in humanitarian aid and disaster relief operationsThe 201 AOG is a 128-member unit with two squadrons – the 201st Combat Operations Squadron and the 201st Air Mobility Operations Squadron. It plays a critical role in ensuring seamless integration with the 613th Air Operations Center (613 AOC), providing combat-ready airmen for daily operations and surge support, bolstering command-and-control capabilities in the Pacific and strengthening the Hawaiʻi Air National Guard’s homeland defense mission.

The 201 AOG recently sharpened its skills as a vital augmentation force for the 613 AOC during their annual training. The training concentrated on mission qualification training, mission continuation training, and comprehensive mission evaluations across all 613 AOC divisions and leadership roles, preparing members for a wide range of operational scenarios. This intensive training culminated with the participation in exercise Pacific Sentry 25-2, a complex bilateral joint exercise designed to test and refine response options to simulated crises in the Indo-Pacific region.  Pacific Sentry leveraged sophisticated simulations to exercise the joint targeting cycle, providing realistic training for participants. The exercise occurs in three iterations annually: a senior leader seminar focusing on strategic decision-making, a targeted Command Post Exercise (CPX) honing joint targeting skills, and a broader CPX encompassing a wider array of operational challenges. During this iteration, the AOC tasked 3,206 missions and 8,485 sorties, demonstrating the unit’s ability to adapt and perform under pressure.

Members of the 201 AOG  are currently participating in exercise Resolute Force Pacific 25 through Aug. 8, the first-in-a-generation department-level exercise series. A new way the Air Force is exercising to conduct large operations in contested, dynamic environments with the aim to improve interoperability and multilateral cooperation, leading to a stronger, more capable, deterrent force.

The 201 AOG not only focused on training but also on integrating cutting-edge technologies to enhance their mission effectiveness:

• Palantir Maven Smart System: Designed to enhance human-machine teaming in the kill-chain targeting process for battlefield risk reduction.
• Gaia: This geospatial command and control platform provides a unified map-based view, integrating battlefield operations and intelligence for enhanced collaboration.
• Target Workbench: A modern approach to target management, enabling centralized intelligence gathering, target identification, and collaborative visualization of the order of battle within a secure environment.
• Maverick AI: Serving as a foundational AI layer to optimize platforms and processes for increased efficiency.
• ChatSurfer: A secure chat platform facilitates real-time communication and information management, allowing users to filter and prioritize critical information through keyword searches.
• C2Core (ATO Production): A battle-tested joint all-domain command and control suite that provides a comprehensive operational picture by integrating information across multiple domains, enabling effective mission planning, execution, and assessment.

The 201 AOG’s adoption of these advanced technologies underscores its commitment to remaining at the forefront of modern warfare and maintaining a decisive advantage in an increasingly complex operational environment.

YCA cadets take on annual Wai‘anae Adventure Challenge

Hawai‘i Youth Challenge Academy O‘ahu’s 2025 Fitness Team competed in the annual Wai‘anae Adventure Challenge on April 26 and 27. The cadets participated with JROTC teams from Hawai‘i high schools in relays, obstacles, equipment carry, canoe paddling, rope bridging, rappelling and more. Congratulations to Class 62 on your awards!

– Photos by Hawai‘i Youth Challenge Academy O‘ahu

New Hires & Transfers – STATE

Employee Hire Date Position Program

• Cornel, Romel 5/16/2025 EOC Operations & Threat Specialist HIEMA
• Bayronkim, Juan 5/16/2025 Emergency Management Specialist V (Planning) HIEMA
• Viers, Carlene 5/16/2025 Enviromental Health Specialist II HIARNG / ENV
• Guzman, Dean 5/16/2025 Emergency Management Specialist III – Operations HIEMA
• Andersen, Jesper 5/16/2025 Contracts Assistant II ENG
• Holley, Jeraldine 5/16/2025 Counselor JCA
• Au Young, Waylne (on loan to ASO) 5/16/2025 Diaster Assistant Office Assistance – May 18 Kilauea HIEMA
• Shima, Davron 6/2/2025 EM Lead (RSIL) (EMPG) HIEMA
• Lupenui, Christian 6/2/2025 Emergency Management Specialist VI (Planning) HIEMA
• Kahele, Alfred 6/2/2025 General Laborer I ENG
• Ah Sam, Thomas 6/2/2025 Janitor II ENG
• Kamai, Chelsea 6/2/2025 Admissions Assistant – Hilo JCA 
• Nagano, Kurt 6/3/2025 Radio Tech I HIEMA
• Kiyohiro, Jake 6/16/2025 Emergency Management Speciaist IV JOC
• Chang, Rachelle 6/16/2025 Administrative Specialist III HIANG / 154th CES
• Barlett, Geroge 6/16/2025 Veterans Services Counselor II OVS
• Tau, Moe 6/16/2025 Veterans Services Counselor III OVS
• Kazunaga, Derek 6/16/2025 General Laborer I HIANG / 154th CES
• Ushiroda-Garma, Hope 6/16/2025 Office Assistant III HIARNG / ENV
• Wang, Jason 6/16/2025 ITAM Planner HIARNG / CFMO
• Kawakami, Susan 7/1/2025 Accountant V ASO
• Guidry, Susan 7/1/2025 Accountant IV HIARNG / CFMO
• Canoneo, Zharen 7/7/2025 Executive Assistant (SMR) OTG
• Magee, Dominique 7/16/2025 Logistics Systems Specialist – Planning Unit (COVID19) HIEMA
• Bugarin, George 7/16/2025 Environmental Health Specialist IV HIARNG / ENV
• Fautanu, Leif 7/16/2025 Operations Specialist (EMPG) HIEMA
• Kina, Bryan 7/16/2025 Energy Management Control Specialist HIARNG / CFMO
• Jeffrey Chen 6/16/2025 Engineer II ENG
• Lea-Ann Arakaki 6/18/2025 Emergency Management Reserve Corp Specialist HIEMA
• Kaipo Hanawahine-Holi 6/25/2025 Administrative Assistant I OVS / HSVC
• Elvis Salinas 7/16/2025 Emergency Management Reserve Corp Specialist HIEMA
• Sharon Tasato (on loan to ASO) 7/16/2025 GIS Specialist HIARNG / CFMO
• Brandon Jordan 7/18/2025 Cadre YCA – K

New Hires & Transfers – FEDERAL

Employee Hire Date Position ORGANIZATION

• Laga, Jayeson 6/16/2025 Tools And Parts Attendant Joint Force HQ – HI, HIARNG
• Lapitan, Kelvin 6/16/2025 Surface Maintenance Repairer Joint Force HQ – HI, HIARNG
• Martinez, Nohemi 5/19/2025 Financial Management Analyst 154 Comptroller, HIANG
• Songco, Shoichiro 5/5/2025 Aircraft Mechanic 154 Amx Sq, HIANG
• Quinto-Decambra, Chanston 4/7/2025 Aircraft Mechanic 154 Amx Sq, HIANG