There is another military organization that deserves mention at this time. This was the Citizens’ Guard. It was not organized as were the volunteer companies of the National Guard, but was composed of some ten squads located all over the Island of Oahu. Each squad contained about fifty men known to be loyal to the Provisional Government. The Citizens’ Guard was not required to drill, or in any way obligate itself in time of peace. In time of rebellion or invasion, however, it agreed to take over guard duty and patrol the streets, so that the National Guard might be allowed a free hand in its military operations.

– History of the Hawaii National Guard pp. 42-43

Kona Drought Disaster: The HNG supported the Civil Defense Agency during the period 6 Feb – 8 Mar 58 by furnishing truck drivers, six (6) 750 gal water tankers, six (6) 450 gal water trailers and five (5) gal water cans. The Guardsmen assisted by hauling water from the primary water points at Honakuhau, Holualoa, Konawaena and Honaunau in the drought area to local distribution points. From the points water was issued in five gallon cans to the population. During the operation a total of 3,968,700 gallons of water was hauled to the drought area from Kohala Waimea districts by HNG and commercial tankers and from Oahu by barge.

–1958 Annual Report pp.7

Kapoho Disaster: Personnel from the 2d Battle Group, 299th Inf supported Civil Defense officials during the volcanic eruption at Kapoho, Hawaii which began on 13 January 1960 and lasted for 33 days. Support by the HNG included 100 cots, 400 blankets, buses and trucks to assist in evacuation of civilians and property, vehicular radio communications, an aircraft for constant aerial observation and two twin, engined aircrafts to ferry Federal and State officials to the disaster area. 704 man days were expended by Guardsmen on State active duty in this disaster.

–1960 Annual Report pp. 6

Two large new Non-armory construction projects on the interior of Diamond Head Crater were approaching completion as of the end of the reporting period. The first of these projects is the United States Property & Fiscal Office Building, which is a large modern building of reinforced concrete and concrete masonry construction containing a total of 28,000 square feet of floor space. The building will provide administrative office space for the United States Properly & Fiscal Officer and his staff, as well as for the Engineering and Maintenance Services Office of the Department of Defense. In addition, the building contains 20,000 square feet of warehouse space for the supply and logistical support of the Hawaii Army National Guard. Total cost of the building was $335,600.00 supported $273,000.00 by the Federal Government and $63,000.00 by the State of Hawaii.

The second project is the construction of a Combined Field Maintenance Shop which is designed to provide major repair and maintenance support above the organizational level for vehicles and equipment of the Hawaii Army National Guard. This building also is of reinforced concrete and concrete masonry construction containing approximately 19,800 square feet of floor area. Total cost of the project was $370,000.00 of which the Federal Government paid $351,000.00 and the State of Hawaii paid $19,000.00.

– 1964 Annual Report pp. 14

The Royal Guard had even a greater honor on 20 January 1965. They were selected to represent Hawaii at President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Inaugural Parade in Washington, D. C. (The long march down Pennsylvania Avenue in 25° weather was made as comfortable as possible with concealed “long johns”). Arrangements were multi-source: air to and from west coast via MATS, to D.C. via California ANG C-97 and return by New York C-97, billetting in Washington courtesy of the Hawaii State Society.

– HANG 25 History of Hawaii Air National Guard pp. 45

Seven pilots volunteered for 90 day tours of active duty to support and fly for the U.S. Air Force in the Philippines, South Vietnam and Thailand. Lt Col Kurt E. Johnson, Majors Jon G. Parrish, Edward V. Richardson, Gerald K. Sada, and Captains Rexford F. Hitchcock and Marlin L. Little, the participants, all received Air Medals with varying numbers of Oak Leaf Clusters for their part in this program called “Palace Alert.”

– 1969 Annual Report pp. 15

PALACE ALERT was an Air National Guard program to augment USAF air defense units in Southast Asia (suggested by the HANG) and Europe. Combat ready DEUCE pilots from 20 Air Guard units were eligible to volunteer. Majs Jon G. Parrish and Gerald K. Sada were the first two HANG pilots to volunteer for 90 day tours. They went to the Philippines and flew active air defense missions from Da Nang, South Vietnam. They were followed during the fiscal year by Lt Col Kurt E. Johnson, Majs Ritchie K. Kunichika and Edward V. Richardson, and Capts Rexford H. Hitchcock and Marlin L. Little.

– HANG 25 History of Hawaii Air National Guard pp. 53-54

(Fiscal Year 1970) Major Lawrence C. Cabrinha and Capt George E.M. Joy participated in PALACE ALERT-flying air defense missions in Southeast Asia. They were the last two, as the program was terminated.

– HANG 25 History of Hawaii Air National Guard pp. 57

A significant change occurred in the personnel area. The Hawaii National Guard’s first woman officer and first woman enlistee were sworn in as members of the 154th Fighter Group. They were First Lieutenant Barbara O’Hare and Airman 1st Class Phyllis Dickens.

– 1972 Annual Report pp. 4

The first WAFs were enlisted in HANG in 1972 – 1Lt Barbara O’Hare and A IC Phyllis Dickens.

– HANG Twenty Five Plus Five- History of the Hawaii Air National Guard 4 November 1971 to 3 November 1976 pp. 5

During the February 5-9, 197 5 flooding of the Haleiwa – Waialua and Makaha – Haianae areas of Oahu, our personnel aided in evacuation and debris clearance and carried out other emergency functions .

– 1976 Annual Report pp. 1

On Feb. 5-9, 1976, 500 people were evacuated from the Haleiwa-Waialua and Makaha-Waianae areas of Oahu when flooding drenched homes in those locales. The floods, preceded by high winds , caused property damage of over $500,000 to farms , $219,000 in damage to other parts of the private sector, and $55,000 worth of damage to public property. . . During the flooding, City and County of Honolulu, State Civil Defense, and other agencies were mobilized for rescue , evacuation, debris clearance and other emergency functions. National Guard personnel and equipment were also utilized.

– 1976 Annual Report pp. 5

Oahu County Flood, Feb. 5-9: Five hundred people were evacuated from the Haleiwa-Waialua and Makaha-Waianae areas of Oahu Feb. 5-9 when flooding caused by heavy rains drenched homes in those locales.

– 1976 Annual Report pp. 23

CD responds

By Fred C. Pugarelli
PIO, Civil Defense

Five hundred people were evacuated from the Haleiwa-Waialua and Makaha-Waianae area of Oahu Island on February 6 to 8, 1976, when flooding caused by very heavy rains drenched homes in those locales.

A State Civil Defense spokesman said, “Three shelters were opened up by the Oahu County CD Agency in the affected areas and accommodated approximately 300 persons overnight.” No lives
were lost.

Total damage caused by the flood, which was preceded by high winds, was about $274,000. This included private damage of $219,000 and public damage of $55,000.

Hawaii Gov. George R. Ariyoshi and MajGen Valentine A. Siefermann, State director of Civil Defense and adjutant general, both toured the
stricken areas.

One small private irrigation reservoir of 1.5 million gallons in the Makaha Valley area threatened to rupture and was pumped into an adjacent resevoir to minimize danger.

City and County of Honolulu and State agencies were mobilized for rescue, evacuation, debris clearance and other emergency functions. National Guard troops and equipment were mobilized and placed on alert for emergency rescue and evacuation in all areas.

– 1976 March Pūpūkahi pp. 3

During January and February, the County of Hawaii sustained record breaking rainfall that caused flooding in many sections of the county. Due to the severity of the rains, President Jimmy Carter, at the request of Governor George R. Ariyoshi, proclaimed Hawaii County a major disaster area for the period February 15-26, 1979.

– 1979 Annual Report pp. 16

Ground and air evacuation transportation was the primary assistance provided during the flooding . One life saving task included medical evacuation from Pahala to Hilo of a patient requiring critical dialysis treatment.

– 1979 Annual Report pp. 6

Big Island residents accept disaster; life returns to normal as disaster subsides

by Bill Roome
CD Information Specialist

“I’ve lived in Hilo J or nearly 40 years and the recent February rains were the worst I have seen, but most of the people/ know will rebuild or replant and go on as before,” reflected Ed Tanaka, a Big Island resident. Residents of the Big Island are philosophical about disasters. And with good reason!

They have suffered devastating blows from tsunamis, had many of their public structures indiscriminately dissected by earthquakes and been forced to abandon their homes because of a temperamental lady named Madame Pele.

So when the latest disaster struck – the steady February rains that caused flooding in many parts of the county – Big Island residents took the setback in stride. According to Charlie De Meo, State Civil Defense administrative officer, most of the people who applied for assistance were optimistic and eager to return to their normal ways of life.

During February, severe rains caused damage to many agricultural fields, homes and public structures in the Hilo, Puna and Hamakua area. In a single 24-hour period, a record 22.3 inches of rain fell in the Hilo area.

Due to the copious amounts of rain, on March 7 President Jimmy Carter, at the request of Governor George R. Ariyoshi, proclaimed the County of Hawaii a major disaster area, and a State Civil Defense disaster assistance team moved into Hilo. Once the State Civil Defense team had conferred with State and county officials and representatives from a federal assistance team, a disaster assistance center was opened at the National Guard Armory in Hilo to assist individuals and families who suffered flood related losses.

During the seven days the center was open (March 13-19), 329 people registered for various low-interest loans, grants and other means of assistance. Some of these programs included tax advice, temporary housing, business and personal loans, American Red Cross assistance and the Individual and Family Grant (IFG) Program.

Although the majority seeking assistance requested state and federal, tax advice, a surprising number of people ( 140 applicants) sought relief under the Individual and Family Grant Program. Originally, State Civil Defense estimated that approximately 60 people would apply for the program.

Under the IFG Program, victims who have disaster-related necessary expenses or serious needs, and who cannot qualify for any other means of assistance, can apply for a grant totaling upwards of $5000.

The program works as follows: Once a victim has applied for a grant, a caseworker interviews the applicant and verifies the necessary items, listed on the application, as being damaged by the disaster. Once this is completed, the caseworker forwards the findings to an administrative panel, comprised of State government employees, who decide if the applicant qualifies for the grant, and if so, how much he or she will receive.

To date, not all of the applicants have been processed, but a sample of those that have been processed include grants for an automobile, school books for a Big Island student and a $5000 grant to assist in rebuilding a house. De Meo estimates that all the applications will be processed by June.

Yes, it is true, disaster relief programs can never replace the anguish and sorrow caused by the loss of personal property but the programs do make it possible to get a fresh start in returning to a normal way of life

– 1979 June Pūpūkahi pp. 2

ARMY GUARD TO THE RESCUE

When heavy rains, flooding .and bad road conditions damaged parts of the Big Island in February (see CD story), an Army Guard helicopter and flight crew were called to State Active Duty to air evacuate a Big Island resident in urgent need of medical attention.

Captain Victor Chun, Chief Warrant Officer Ed Spencer and Sergeant Ronald Ueda flew the lifesaving mission from Pahala Hospital to Hilo Hospital. where the patient received kidney dialysis treatment.

– 1979 June Pūpūkahi pp. 8

Over 500 members of the Hawaii Army National Guard were ordered
to duty during the strike by blue-collar public employees in October 1979. Guard members provided back-up security at the state corrections institutions and the Hawaii State Hospital and prepared meals where cooks were in short supply.

– 1980 Annual Report pp. 14

State calls up guard during strike

On the evening of Oct. 21, telephone calls from the Hawaii Army and Air National Guard went out to mobilize more than 400 Guard members state-wide.

A total of 426 Army Guardsmen and eight Air Guard medics reported to their respective unit armories for duty.

In the case of one Army Guard unit, the espirit de corps was so high that soldiers who were not home when the calls went out, reported in for duty when told by a neighboring guardsman about the call up.

Once assembled in their armories, the Guard members were briefed on a special law enforcement duty and assigned to correctional institutions and hospitals.

The strike would have far greater impact on the state than the public initially realized. If UPW unit I workers walked off their jobs at various correctional, rehabilitation and medical institutions administered by the Department of Social Services and Housing (DSSH) and the Department of Health, inmates and patients would go unfed. The
greatest fear of DSSH officials was the possibility of Unit IO security personnel not showing up for work in support of the strike.

National Guard members were to provide security, food service and medical assistance to the following facilities:

• Hawaii State Prison, Annex and Community Release Board
• Halawa / Halfway House Complex
• Youth / Maluhia Complex
• Hilo Prison
• Kulani Prison
• Maui Prison
• Kauai Prison
• Kaneohe State Hospital

As anticipated, contract agreements were not met by the midnight deadline and approximately 8,000 blue-collar workers went on strike.

Guardsmen, trucked out to the different facilities, took up positions on a stand-by status at each facility. Organized into three, eight-hour shifts, the Army Guard soldiers and Air Guard medics began their watch.

The first few days were tense. At various correctional facilities, like Hawaii State Prison on Oahu, the possibility of a volatile situation sent one’s imagination spinning.

Referred to as OP (Oahu Prison) by many guardsmen, Hawaii State Prison is no stranger to the National Guard. The Hawaii National Guard has served as the state’s stabilizing force in three separate occasions which took place in 1973 and 1975.

This recent law enforcement duty was different. It was different in that the guardsmen were placed on state active duty, but were held in a stand-by status. For many guardsmen, it was a report in and wait type of situation.

On several occasions, inmates at OP voiced their dissatisfaction over prison conditions. Fortunately, prison guards and officials were able to settle the differences without the use of the guardsmen.

Throughout the strike, numerous mention was made of the use of the National Guard to collect the growing amounts of trash.

Standing firm, state and National Guard officials dismissed the idea of having National Guard members collect trash,

Then on Nov. 7, Gov. George R. Ariyoshi, making a televised appeal for parents and other volunteers to clean and help reopen public schools, stated -that he would call out the National Guard “if it becomes necessary to maintain order.” But at it turned out, the call up did not materialize.

As the strike continued. the number of Guard members on state active duty steadily declined as the threat of a walkout by Unit 10 security personnel diminished. Then on Nov. 16, the last Army Guard soldier was taken off state active duty.

– 1979 December Pūpūkahi pp. 5

Hawaii National Guard personnel stationed on Maui were activated to aid Maui County civil authorities in evacuating residents during the heavy rain and windstorms in January. Power generators and operators were provided to overcome critical power shortages.

– 1980 Annual Report pp. 14

Three disasters keep SCD hopping

by Bill Roome
State Civil Defense

It has been approximately l00,000 years since Diamond Head Crater last erupted but one would get the impression that this majestic land mark was stirring or certainly restless by the rumblings going on in Birkhimer Tunnel, home of State Civil Defense (SCD).

Many of the SCD staff have been on the constant go since February 1979, handling surf, heavy rains and flooding, prompted President Jimmy Carter, at the request of Governor George R. Ariyoshi, to declare Maui County a major disaster area. To date, statewide damage estimates have surpassed $25 million. With the President’s declaration, Maui now is entitled to Federal disaster assistance funds and loans.

One of the first steps that will be taken by SCD in coordinating the statewide disaster assistance effort will be to brief concerned State and county agencies applying for public disaster relief. Once this is completed, a statewide survey of damaged public facilities will be conducted to develop detailed engineering reports of each damaged site or facility. Finally, the disaster assistance applications will be processed, and Federal funds will be disbursed through SCD.

Persons who suffered damages from the January storm will be able to apply for low interest loans through individual agencies such as the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Farmers Home Administration, and the State Department of Planning and Economic Development.

Earlier, a state disaster was declared by the Governor for the Big lsland in November 1979 following damaging heavy rains and flooding. In Waipio Valley alone, 49 persons were evacuated and many taro farms destroyed. Following emergency restoration work on the Waipio Valley stream by the Hawaii Army National Guard and other state agencies, SCD began to approve State and county requests for financial assistance to repair damaged public facilities.

And there’s more: although the February 1979 Presidential declaration disaster for Hawaii County may have been forgotten by many people, State Civil Defense still is busy processing requests for supplemental Federal disaster assistance and requests for cash advances on disaster work still in progress. SCD is also coordinating final inspection of completed disaster projects and reimbursements of State and Federal disaster funds.

The target date for completing restoration of Big Island public facilities damaged from the February 1979 disaster is late 1980. To date, there are no estimates as to when restoration will be complete following the November 1979 and January 1980 floods and storms.

– 1980 February Pūpūkahi pp. 4

Maui guardsmen aid neighbors during flooding

The Hawaii Army National Guard was called into action twice to aid Maui County and its residents during the severe January storm that buffeted the Valley Isle.

At the request of Maui County officials, Gov. George R. Ariyoshi ordered 40 Hawaii Army National Guardsmen to State Active Duty Jan. 8-11 to assist stranded or displaced residents.

The National Guard armory in Wailuku was opened up Jan. 8 at 11:40 p.m. to temporarily house some 25 Maui residents affected by the heavy rains and flooding. Twelve Army Guardsmen were again called upon the following morning to assist county medical, police and civil defense personnel in crossing flooded roads. Waters too deep for regular and emergency vehicles required the use of six water-fordable utility transports called “Gamma Goats,” and one 2½-ton transport truck to cross into the Kihei and Makawao areas. The Gamma Goats are large troop carriers with extra-wide flotation tires, and were used to evacuate citizens in these areas.

All guard personnel and equipment were pulled off State Active Duty by midafternoon of Jan. 9 when relief assistance no longer was needed.

Then on Jan. 10, the guardsmen were recalled to assist stranded Maui residents for a second full day after the already battered island suffered even more destruction from the Pacific storms.

Activated in two additional phases, the first contingent of 17 guardsmen was called out at 11 p.m. Wednesday and the second, group of 11 guardsmen was mobilized at 3:30 a.m. Thursday. Hawaii Army National Guardsmen again provided vital transportation for Maui County emergency personnel, as well as temporary housing for residents affected by the wind-lashed rains and flooding.

Seventy-five displaced people were evacuated and housed in the National Guard armory in Wailuku. During the final call-up of National
Guardsmen, five more medium-sized amphibious Army Guard transport trucks were used, bringing the total vehicle count to eleven.

– 1980 February Pūpūkahi pp. 5

Big Island storms claim lives; damage property

The past 14 months certainly have been disastrous for the people of Hawaii County. Various storms have claimed the lives of seven people, caused approximately $14 million in damages to public and private
property, and forced many residents to evacuate their homes during storm periods.

Gov. George R. Ariyoshi has declared the county a major disaster area four times. President Carter proclaimed the county a disaster area in February 1979 and has been asked to release federal funds to restore public facilities damaged during the March tempest.

Mother nature began her unbenign frenzy in February 1979. During that month, heavy rains deluged the island. quickly saturating the soil in many districts and causing extensive flooding. In a single 24-hour period, 22.3 inches of rain fell in the Hilo area. During a 10-day period, 250 families were evacuated.

When the sun finally reappeared, a total of 200 homes had suffered various degrees of damage. Approximately 300 people later applied for such disaster assistance as low-interest emergency loans and grants, and damage estimates reach $6 million. The governor declared a state disaster, triggering the release of $500,000 in restoration funds; President Carter followed by declaring Hawaii County a federal disaster area.

In November 1979, heavy rains once again inundated sections of the county, resulting in the governor declaring Puna, Ka ‘u, South and North Hilo. Hamakua, and South and North Kohala major disaster areas. One person lost his life during the storm and approximately 120 people were evacuated. A total of 49 persons from the Waipio Valley area alone were relocated and many taro farms in the valley were destroyed.

The National Gaurd was quickly sent into the valley following the storm to clear debris and to rechannel water back into the Wailoa and Hiilawe Streams. Total damage to public and private property was $4 million.

In January of this year, the entire state was subjected to a tempest that left behind damages totaling some $27 million. Three people lost their lives in Hawaii County and about $300,000 in damages was recorded. A state disaster was declared for all counties.

The latest mayhem to strike Hawaii County occurred this March. claiming three more lives and inundating many districts on the windward side of the island. Damage estimates for the county continue to come in to the State Civil Defense Division, with the latest tallies exceeding $3 million.

According to Steve Philben, SCD disaster assistance planner, some structures, such as the Waiohinu flood project, were severely damaged and repaired following the February storm; and then again were damaged in the March disaster.

The governor has already declared the Big Island a major disaster area and has asked the President again to declare Hawaii County a federal disaster area. lf this request is approved, Hawaii County will be eligible for federal funds to restore public facilities, such as roads, water and drainage facilities.

-Bil Roome
Civil Defense

– 1980 June Pūpūkahi pp. 6

Kaupo to Kalaupapa

Guard helps Maui

Hawaii Army and Air Guard members went to the aid of Maui County twice this spring.

Early April rains caused heavy flooding on East Maui. An Army Guard helicopter went to help out. Carrying supplies and county workmen into Hana and Kaupo, the helicopter crews played a large part in helping to keep things going in the area cut off by landslides across Hana Highway.

Only a week later, the guard was again called upon; this time to Kalaupapa Settlement on Molokai. Continuing torrential rains washed out its aging fresh-water system. On April 8, when it was certain water tanks would run dry before repairs could be finished, a guard 450-gallon water tank was airlifted in by an Army CH-47 “Chinook” helicopter.

The next day, the Hawaii Air Guard’s C-7 transport plane began a series of trips from Hickam Air Force Base to Kalaupapa carrying fresh water, and hundreds of feet of metal pipe and fittings. An Army Guard OH-58 from Wheeler Air Force Base carried over Capt. Jerry Matsuda, state engineering officer, to survey the site and make a report to Brig. Gen. lshimoto.

The repairs went well and in two days fresh water was again flowing from the mountain streams behind Kalaupapa.

– 1982 Summer Pūpūkahi pp. 2

Heavy rains and flooding in February and April 1982 again resulted in a call for the Hawaii National Guard and State Civil Defense. Affected areas included Wahiawa on Oahu, Kona on the Big Island, and Kaupo on Maui. Assistance was provided in evacuating endangered residents, lifting in supplies and water, damage assessment, and relief operations.

– 1982 Annual Report pp. 14

In September 1993, the 154th Group’s C-130 assisted with the rescue of a downed civilian helicopter pilot in the ocean between Oahu and Molokai. The helicopter quickly sank and the pilot was adrift with only a life preserver. The quick actions of the C-130 crew in directing a Marine helicopter to the proper location helped to save the downed pilot.

– 1994 Annual Report pp. 14

In September, the crew of MANU 01. flying a training mission. picked up a distress call from a helicopter indicating that he was going lo ditch. The crew consisting of Col. Tom Gresch. Lt. Col. Roy Sakata. MSgt. Alan Ogata. and TSgt Meh in Enoki. responded to the call and
began an aerial search for the aircraft and survivors. After coordinating with a Coast Guard C-130 that was also dispatched to search. the crew of MANU 01 orbited at 1200 ft AGL. MSgt. Ogata was the first person to spot the lone survivor. They immediately marked the spot on the aircraft’s SCNS system and vectored a
Marine helicopter. also dispatched to search, to the area to pick up the survivor. Airmen’s medals were awarded to the crew for their part in the rescue

– 1996 Five Decades of Service Excellence Hawaii Air National Guard Golden Anniversary 1946-1996 pp. 46

C-130 crew helps rescue pilot

Complied by Kukailimoku and pupukahi staff

Members of the Hawaii Air National Guard’s 154th Group came to the aid of a downed civilian helicopter pilot off the western shore of Molokai, Sept. 29.

While on a pilot proficiency training sortie, Lt. Col. Roy Sakata, commander, Col. Thomas Gresch, pilot, Master Sgt. Alan Ogata, flight engineer, and Tech. Sgt. Melvin Enoki, loadmaster, were notified by the FAA Air Traffic Control Center that a helicopter had ditched four miles off of the Molokai shoreline. After descending to 1,000 feet, they began searching for the pilot through low cloud cover and moderately rough seas. After descending further to 500 feet, visual contact was made but soon lost due to weather conditions.

“With the rough white water and no visual marking capabilities, we were not able to maintain visual contact with the survivor,” said Sakata.

After a Coast Guard C-130 arrived and took over the search, the HIANG C-130 was directed to ascend to an altitude of 1,000 feet. With the Coast Guard C-130 flying at 500 feet and a Marine Corps CH-46 helicopter flying at 250feet, Gresch and Ogata again spotted the pilot. This time they were able to keep the man in visual contact and direct the Marine Corps helicopter to his location.

The HIANG C-130 crew, recording their first save, was happy to learn that the pilot suffered only bumps, bruises and jellyfish stings, and was released from the hospital that same day.

“Our HIANG C-130 operational support aircraft training flight was concluded with a real-life save, and a ton of self-satisfaction for the crew,” Sakata said.

– 1993 September – October Pūpūkahi pp. 1

In July and August 1995, the 201st CCG responded to a real world humanitarian mission, providing tactical communications in support Joint Task Force Operation Prompt Return on Wake Island. Operation Prompt Return was conducted by the U.S. State Department to repatriate 156 Chinese nationals who attempted to illegally enter the United States aboard a fishing vessel.

– 1996 Annual Report pp. 18

Combat Communications Group deploys on real world mission to Wake Island

By Sgt. James Young

Within 72 hours after being tasked by Headquarters, Pacific Air Forces, fourteen members from various Hawaii Air National Guard units from across the state of Hawaii were winging their way to Wake Island in support of Joint Task Force for Operation Prompt Return ’95.

The task force’s mission was to assist the U.S. State Department repatriating more than 130 Chinese Nationals who were discovered by the U.S. Coast Guard aboard a fishing vessel 960 Nautical miles from Honolulu.

The team consisted of ten members from the 201st Combat Communications Group, one member from the 154th Air Control Squadron, and three members from 15th Communications Squadron, active duty technical advisors attached to the 201st.

Groups sets up satellite link

Their mission was to set-up 24 voice and data communications circuits within the task force area and provide for satellite communications from Wake Island to Honolulu.

For the members deploying to Wake, July 26, this was a “real” mission, not “just” training.

“We did not know what the situation was,” said Senior Airman Timothy Acher of the 201st.

“We did not know if we were going to be sleeping in tents, if we were going to have hot meals or be eating MREs, or even what the site looked like,” added Acher.

Within 24-hours after arriving on site, all systems were fully operational. The only major problem encountered was with the electrical power on Wake. Master Sgt. Herbert Honjo, an air control technician, was able to jury-rig an electrical system to power all of the equipment. The installation consisted of 20 telephone circuits that were connected to a field switchboard, an autovon telephone circuit and a message distribution center utilizing satellite communications capabilities.

“The installation went so quickly . . . everyone just clicked,” said Staff Sgt. Brian Abrigo of the 201st Group.

“This is what we train for, deploying on short notice, adapting and learning to do things differently based on the location,” Archer continued. Active duty advisor commends Hawaii

Guard professionalism

“The members of the Hawaii Guard gave a good showing, had an excellent working relationship with the task force, and the U.S. Pacific Command staff on Wake Island was very impressed with their professionalism,” said Master Sgt. Bruce McGilvery, an active duty advisor to the 201st

The task force also included elements from the 25th Infantry Division (Light), a medical team from Tripler Hospital, and members from the State Department. All task force members were required to be in uniform at all times. The U.S. Army contingent even marched to and from the dining facilities as a show of force to the illegal aliens.

The 201st was in the process of obtaining additional personnel for the deployment which was scheduled to last for ninety days. However, after two weeks, all of the Chinese Nationals were repatriated and the task force returned Aug. 9 and 10.

Two sergeants recognized for expertise

Two members of the Communications Group received the Joint Service Achievement Medal for their actions on Wake. Staff Sgt. Joseph Gahan, a telephone equipment installer from the 291st Combat Communications Squadron and Staff Sgt. Charles Tomlinson, an electronics switching systems communications technician from the 292nd Combat Communications Squadron, distinguished themselves with their outstanding technical expertise in ensuring the timely activation of critical command and control communications systems.

– 1995 July – September Pūpūkahi pp. 4

Hawaii Guard supports worldwide missions and disaster relief

In July, personnel from the 201st Combat Communications Group deployed to Wake Island for Joint Task Force Prompt Return ’95, the U.S. State Department operation to repatriate more than 130 Chinese nationals discovered in the hold of the fishing vessel. The 201st provided voice and data communications circuits within the task force area and provided satellite communications from Wake to Oahu

– 1995 December Pūpūkahi pp. 2

The night before Halloween brought a cruel surprise to Manoa Valley residents and the neighboring University of Hawaii of Hawaii campus. A constant downpour the night of Oct. 30 dumped more than eight inches of rain in less than three hours on the upper reaches of the valley transforming gentle Manoa Stream into a raging, uncontrollable river. The torrents tore down a steel and concrete bride, damaged homes, and swept automobiles and debris down stream. Erupting over the stream banks, water and mud poured into the lower floors of the U.H. Hamilton Library and damaged more than 30 other buildings on campus.

– 2005 Annual Report pp. 23

With only two days notice, a crew of nine from the 203rd Air Refueling Squadron departed Dec. 30 for Utaphao RTNB, Thailand to deliver personnel and supplies to the Tsunami ravaged region. The 203rd transported 17 mortuary personnel from Joint Prisoners of War/ Missing in Action (POW/MIA) Accounting Command who arrived in Thailand to assist with the recovery and identification of victims from the Tsunami disaster. In addition, the 203rd delivered 6,000 pounds of equipment and supplies to aid in the disaster relief.

Thirteen members of the 154th Security Forces also supported the Tsunami relief efforts. The SFS members left Hickam AFB for Tsunami battered South Asia Jan.16, 2005 to provide aircraft and flightline security.

– 2005 Annual Report pp. 16

In May, the newly formed 29th Brigade Special Troops Battalion “deployed” in support of the Operation JUMP START mission on the Southwest border in Tucson, Ariz. They conducted surveillance and counter-mobility operations to disrupt and prevent illegal border crossings. Most Soldiers were formed into entry identification teams, while the engineering company cut new roads, rebuilt fences and improved the drainage along the border

– 2013 Annual Report pp. 11

At that same time, the Group also sent 20 members to Arizona to support Operation JUMP START, the mission in support of the U.S. Border Patrol. They were the first Hawaii National Guardsmen to deploy in support of Operation JUMP START.

– 2013 Annual Report pp. 11

In May, the 298th Engineer Co. supported the Operation JUMP START mission on the southwest border of San Diego, Calif. The engineering company cut new roads, rebuilt fences and improved the drainage along the border. They built infrastructure that supported operations that disrupt and prevent illegal Mexico border crossings.

– 2013 Annual Report pp. 11

The 293rd CBCS also provided NGCE (National Guard Communications Equipment) support to Vigilant Guard 08 in Reno, Nev. and sent personnel to Arizona in support of Operation Jump Start, the National Guard operation supporting civil authorities along the U.S. Mexico border. 297th Air Traffic Control

– 2013 Annual Report pp. 11

Detachment 1, Company A, 3rd Battalion, 140th Aviation Regiment (Security and Support with LUH-72 Lakota) . . . Deployed in support of the Operation JUMP START, the southwest border mission, Texas, January 2013 through September 2013.

– 2013 Annual Report pp. 11

The May 2008 flights to Chungdu, China, were to airlift emergency supplies following the devastating Sichuan Province earthquake. Feedback from Chinese authorities strongly suggests that the flights have helped foster positive relations between the U.S. and China as well as clearly demonstrate the HIANG’s ability to quickly ease the suffering of people in needvirtually anywhere around the world.

– 2008 Annual Report pp. 16

After many years of planning and the initial fielding of the F-22 Raptor fighter aircraft, the 199th and 19th Fighter Squadrons reached Full Operational Capability (FOC) in April 2013. FOC means the units are combat capable and can deploy a majority or all of their F-22s Raptors, the world’s most advanced fighter, for any contingency operation. The F-22A Raptor is capable of both air-to-air, as well as air-to-ground combat and is the Air Force’s primary air superiority fighter providing unmatched capabilities for air supremacy and homeland defense. The fifth-generation F-22 Raptor has unparalleled stealthiness, supercruise, unmatched maneuverability and improved sustainability that would enable the aircraft to strike deep and fast, day or night, paving the way for friendly air, ground and naval forces to operate freely; gather and distribute intelligence across the battlefield; and even engage incoming missiles. Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam is home to a total of 20 F-22 Raptors. The HIANG and the active duty air Force share responsibility for flying and maintaining the F-22s

– 2013 Annual Report pp. 18-19

In April and May 2015, the 204th Airlift Squadron flew several C-17 missions in support of disaster relief in earthquake ravaged Nepal. The 109th AOG also sent a 12 member team to Nepal in the aftermath of the earthquake to provide life-saving humanitarian assistance/disaster relief to Nepali victims. The 109th AOG personnel provided on-the-ground command and control for cargo flights that brought in more than 34,000 pounds of relief supplies.

– 2015 Annual Report pp. 19

204th Airlift Squadron: Human Spaceflight Support (HSFS) – The HSFS overcame numerous challenges to provide steadfast support for the first crewed launch of the $4.2B Boeing Starliner space capsule and two NASA test pilots. Integrating with a team that included three HH-60s, two HC-130s, and fourteen Pararescue Jumpers, the two C-17 crews from the 154th Wing provided the sole long-range contingency search and rescue capability for the historic spaceflight. The HSFS team worked closely with riggers to develop custom tactics, techniques, and procedures to account for the unique characteristics of the new spacecraft. Despite facing frequent delays due to mechanical issues, the team maintained readiness at two geographically separate locations — Hickam Air Force Base and Charleston Air Force Base to provide worldwide support in case of a launch abort contingency. In addition to supporting this launch mission, the team also conducted the first-ever alert launch drill in the program’s history, validating the timeline and identifying factors that would limit their ability to respond during future events. This was all accomplished amid an unprecedented third launch event, with a 50 percent increase in mission taskings above steady-state requirements.

– 2024 Annual Report pp. 19