Hawaiʻi National Guard History

The first colonial militia was established in Massachusetts on Dec. 13, 1636. State militias later became the National Guard of the United States, making the National Guard the oldest component of the U.S. military. The need for colonial militia was ratified in the U.S. Constitution. The Militia Act of 1903 created the modern National Guard and affirmed the National Guard as the nation’s primary organized combat reserve force. The National Defense Act of 1947 established the Air National Guard as a separate reserve component at the same time it established the U.S. Air Force. The U.S. traditionally had a small standing Army and Navy, and state militias were called up for active duty during wars and other times of crisis. National Guard units have fought in every war in U.S. history.

The Hawaiʻi National Guard can trace its lineage to the volunteers of the 1st Hawaiian Guard, organized Nov. 17th, 1852. A volunteer infantry company was formed by the members of the 1st Hawaiian Guard, and they were called the Honolulu Rifles. Under King David Kalakaua, the unit became the 1st Regiment, Hawaiian Volunteers. On July 6th, 1894, a new military unit was formed, and an Adjutant General was named. The unit was called the 1st Regiment of the National Guard of Hawaiʻi and Col. John H. Soper became the first Adjutant General of the Republic of Hawaiʻi. In 1916, Congress federalized the National Guard and placed it directly under the control of the War Department till 1919 after the war ended.

During World War II Hawaiʻi National Guard troops saw action in the Pacific and European theaters and on Dec. 7, 1941, Hawaiʻi Guard Soldiers captured the first Japanese prisoner of war. During the Cold War, it was the Hawaiʻi National Guard that deterred Soviet aggression with Nike-Hercules missiles poised for action throughout the state. Throughout the Vietnam War, the Hawaiʻi National Guard’s 29th Infantry Brigade was one of only four National Guard Brigades mobilized nationwide and was the first Air Guard unit in the nation to send fighter pilots to escort U.S. bombers. In 1977 the Hawaiʻi National Guard’s Counterdrug program became the first of its kind in the nation, employing troops and helicopters in marijuana eradication. In 1994, the 199th Fighter Squadron became the first Air National Guard unit in the nation to patrol the northern no-fly zone of Iraq. The next brigade call ups would occur in 2004, 2008 and then again in 2012 in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait.

The Hawaiʻi National Guard called its Soldiers and Airmen to State Active Duty following Hurricanes Iniki, Lane, and Douglas, localized flooding over many years, following the earthquake in 2006, tsunamis in 2009 and 2011, Lava flows on Big Island in 2014, 2018, and 2022, for COVID-19 support, and most recently the Maui wildfires in 2023. The Hawaiʻi National Guard continues to change and evolve and is always ready to serve our state and nation.

Last updated June 2024

Hawaiʻi National Guard Chronological History

The chronological history of the Hawaiʻi National Guard is currently a work in progress. We are in the process of organizing and digitizing our collection of books, magazines, newspapers, and photos. As this work progresses, the timeline and different sections will be updated with the relevant information, making it a living document. If you have any questions, comments, corrections, updates or concerns please email us at dod.pao.all@hawaii.gov.

Click on the triangle to explore the history of that decade

Acronyms:

  • HING Hawaiʻi National Guard
  • HIARNG Hawaiʻi Army National Guard
  • HIANG Hawaiʻi Air National Guard
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MAY 1775 Company B, 1109th Theater Aviation Sustainment Maintenance Group, HIARNG, was organized as the Norwich Light Infantry, an element of the 20th Regiment.

1852-1859

Kamehameha III (Keaweaweʻula Kīwalaʻō Kauikeaouli) reigned as the third monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi from 1825 to 1854.

17 NOV 1852 The 1st Hawaiian Guard a predecessor of the present Hawaiʻi National Guard was established. It was a volunteer company of about 50 businessmen / civic leaders. Several months later a volunteer company of cavalry was established as the 1st Hawaiian Cavalry. Read about in on pages 14-15 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard and page 21 of the 1971 Fall The Hawaii Guardsman

Kamehameha IV (Alekanetero ʻIolani Kalanikualiholiho Maka o ʻIouli Kūnuiākea o Kūkāʻilimoku; anglicized as Alexander Liholiho) reigned as the fourth monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi from 1855 to 1863.

28 FEB 1857 A volunteer infantry company was formed by members of the 1st Hawaiian Guard called the Honolulu Rifles.

Documents from the

1860-1869

1860 The 1st Hawaiian Cavalry was revived and became known as the Leleiohoku Guard. The troop had almost 100 members that were well mounted and equipped.  Read about in on page 16 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

OCT 1868 During an attempt to arrest a religious leader on Kona after a riot several individuals were killed. The troops were called in to assist with arrest of the leader and rioters. Read about in on page 17 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

Kamehameha V (Lota Kapuāiwa Kalanimakua Aliʻiōlani Kalanikupuapaʻīkalaninui), reigned as the fifth monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi from 1863 to 1872.

Documents from the

1870-1879

Lunalilo (William Charles Lunalilo) reigned as the sixth monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi from 1873 to 1874.

Kalākaua (David Laʻamea Kamanakapuʻu Māhinulani Nālaʻiaʻehuokalani Lumialani Kalākaua) reigned as the seventh monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi from 1874 to 1891.

1874 The palace guard known as the King’s Guard, a volunteer company of artillery known as the Prince’s Own, and an infantry company known as the Mamalahoas was established. The Leleiohoku Guard was re-established.

Liliʻuokalani (Lydia Liliʻu Loloku Walania Kamakaʻeha) was the last monarch of the Hawaiian Kingdom, reigning from 1891 to 1893.

Documents from the

1880-1889

1883 The Honolulu Rifles was re-established with about 50 men.

1884 The military force was composed of one regularly paid company, the King’s Guard, consisting of 58 men, and four volunteer companies. The Leleiohoku Guard (cavalry) with an enlistment of 84, the Prince’s Own (artillery) with an enlistment of 105, the Mamalahoas (infantry) with an enlistment of 75, and the Honolulu Rifles (infantry) with an enlistment of 52. Read about in on page 20 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

1887 The Mamalahoas fade out of existence, while the Honolulu Rifles increase to more than 200 members.

20 JUL 1889 Robert Wilcox with 150 men took possession of the Government Building and Palace Grounds. The Honolulu Rifles mobilized several companies to the Palace Grounds where a shootout occurred. Robert Wilcox and his men surrendered.

AUG 1889 The King’s Own, Queen’s Own, Prince’s Own, and the Leleiohoku Guard were disbanded.

Documents from the

1890-1899

AUG 1890 The legislature passed an act disbanding the Honolulu Rifles.

1893 – 1902 The Citizens Guard was commissioned in 1893 and composed of ten squads (50 men per squad) all around Oahu. Their purpose was during rebellion or invasion, to patrol the streets and guard, so the National Guard was available for military operations.

The overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom was a coup d’état against Queen Liliʻuokalani, which took place on Jan. 17, 1893, led by the Committee of Safety, composed of seven foreign residents and six Hawaiian Kingdom subjects of American descent. The Provisional Government of Hawaiʻi replaced the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi after the overthrow.

27 JAN 1893 An act by the Executive and Advisory Councils of the Provisional Government of Hawaiʻi provided the formation of the National Guard of Hawaiʻi. One company of regular troops and three companies of volunteers, each to consist of less than 101 men, were formed. This became the last Battalion of the 1st Regiment of the National Guard of Hawaiʻi. Colonel John Soper was appointed head of the military forces of the Provisional Government of Hawaiʻi.

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On January 27, 1893, in order to make the ordinances already passed a matter of law, the Executive and Advisory Councils passed “An Act Providing for the Formation of the National Guard of Hawaii.” It made few changes in the existing organization and served only to consolidate it under the law. By its provisions Colonel Soper was made Commander of the Military, with rank of Colonel; Mr. J. H. Fisher, second in command, with rank of Lieutenant Colonel; Mr. McLeod, Adjutant, with rank of Captain: Mr. W. W. Hall, Quartermaster, with rank of Captain. Captain John Good, in addition to commanding Company D, was also made Ordnance Officer.

The act further provided for one company of regular troops and three
companies of volunteers, each to consist of not more than one hundred and three men, rank and file. These four companies were to comprise the 1st Battalion of the 1st Regiment of the National Guard of Hawaii. The other two battalions were to be unorganized until needed. The form of the organization was patterned directly after the United States Army. The uniforms were to be of blue cloth, cut according to U.S. Army regulations, for both officers and men. Arms and equipment were also to be U.S. Army regulation, although for the time being those on hand were to be used until others could be procured. A few days later U.S. Army Artillery and Infantry
Drill Regulations were also adopted for the use of the National Guard of Hawaii.

Although there was serious discontent with the Provisional Government, especially among the natives, nevertheless, no resistance was shown the National Guard. The fact that no outbreak occurred may be attributed to the fact that the guards established at the beginning of the revolution were maintained at full strength for over two weeks. Additional guards were also placed at the Fire Station and the Water Works. This strong display of force showed that the government was serious and was sufficient to quiet any thoughts of resistance on the part of friends of the queen.

History of the Hawaii National Guard pp. 31

The beginning of the National Guard of Hawaii, as it was first called, formally Came into being on January 27, 1893. when rhe Executive and Advisory Councils of the Provisional Government which overthrew Queen Liliuokalani, passed an Ace providing for formation of the Guard.

Colonel John Soper, formerly of the National Guard of California, was named commander of the new military force. The following year he was co become the republic’s first adjutant general.

The Act of January 27, 1893, provided for organization of one company of regular troops and three companies of volunteers.

Assisting Colonel Soper in organizing the force were several men with military experience, including Captain John Good, who had also been a member of the California Guard and who fired the only shot of the Revolution of 1893.

Company “D”, the regular troops, was placed under the command of Captain Good and was composed mainly of former members of the “Honolulu Rifles,” a volunteer infantry company formed by a group of citizens in 1857.

A German social and political club called “Drei Hundert” formed the nucleus for volunteer Company “A”, commanded by Captain Charles W. Zeigler. Company “B”, also formed by former members of the “Rifles,” was commanded by Captain Hugh Gunn. A group of Portuguese volunteers under Captain Joseph M. Camara, Jr., formed Company “C”, the third volunteer company.

1968 Spring The Hawaii Guardsman pp. 16

27 JAN 1893 The 1st Squadron 299th Cavalry Regiment roots originated as the 1st Regiment of the Hawaiʻi National Guard. 

27 JAN 1893 The 29th Brigade Support Battalion’s roots originated as the 1st Regiment of the Hawaiʻi National Guard. 

1st-Battalion-487th-Field-Artillery

27 JAN 1893 The 1st Battalion, 487th Field Artillery’s roots originated as the 1st Regiment of the Hawaiʻi National Guard. 

JUN 1893 The National Guard was sent in to assist civil authorities in relocating a group of individuals on Kauai with Hansen’s Disease after they refused.

The Republic of Hawaiʻi was a one-party state in Hawaiʻi between July 4, 1894, when the Provisional Government of Hawaiʻi had ended, and Aug. 12, 1898, when it became annexed by the U.S.

06 JUL 1894 Colonel Soper resigned from his command to become the first Adjutant General of the Republic of Hawaiʻi. Read about in on page 48 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

06-14 JAN 1895 A rebellion against the government was started. A detachment from Company E was sent to support civil authorities in executing a search warrant that turned into a shootout. Later that day all the National Guard was on alert and entered into different skirmishes. By the 9th the skirmishes had moved to woods and small groups were surrendering, with the leaders surrendering on the 14th.

The Territory of Hawaiʻi was an organized incorporated territory of the U.S. that existed from Aug. 12, 1898, until Aug. 21, 1959, when most of its territory, excluding Palmyra Island, was admitted to the U.S. as the 50th state, the State of Hawaiʻi.

12 AUG 1898 All companies of the National Guard of the republic of Hawaiʻi were disbanded and immediately reenlisted as new companies pledging allegiance to the U.S. The National Guard of Hawaiʻi had six volunteer companies, Companies A, B, C, F, G, and H, with a total enlistment of 407 members. Read about in on pages 49-51 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard and page 22 of the 1971 Fall The Hawaii Guardsman

DEC 1899 – JAN 1900 An epidemic broke out in Honolulu. The Public Health authorities established a quarantine, but when the situation become serious the National Guard of Hawaiʻi was called in.

Documents from the

1900-1909

20 JAN 1900 In Chinatown a fire broke out and many of the residents had been forced to evacuate their homes. To care for them a shelter was established at Kalihi and placed under the control of the National Guard of Hawaiʻi.

14 JUN 1900 The Republic of Hawaiʻi officially became the Territory of Hawaiʻi. By this the National Guard of Hawaiʻi officially became a part of the military system of the U.S. the first official volunteer infantry formed in Hilo, Hawaiʻi. Read about in on page 53 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

1902 Congress passed a bill to coordinate and standardize the National Guard organizations of the various states/ territories so that they would form an efficient force in times of emergency. It as well allowed the National Guard to participate in annual camps of instruction. Read about in on page 55 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

1903 Landmark legislation paved the way for increased federal control over the National Guard. Guardsmen were required to attend 24 drills per year, five days of annual training and for the first time would be paid for annual training. Read about in on page 55 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

APR 1905 A group of laborers at the Pioneer Mill Company, Lahaina, were dissatisfied with their condition and went on a strike. The owners refused to meet their demands, and the strike turned into a riot. The National Guard of Hawaiʻi was called in to prevent violence till the dispute was resolved. Read about it on pages 17 in the 1923-1924 Annual Report and on page 57 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

MAY 1907 A small detachment of the Signal Company accompanied a visiting party of Congressmen on Maui to look after their transportation and subsistence while enroute to the extinct crater of Haleakala. Read about it on pages 24-25 in the 1907-1908 Annual Report and Read on page 57 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

MAY 1908 U.S. Army officer was assigned to instruct and coordinate the National Guard with active Army. Read about in on page 57 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

Documents from the

1910-1919

09-22 MAR 1910 Approximately 800 Russian immigrants arrived in Honolulu to work, but many were suffering from diphtheria. A detachment of one surgeon and ten enlisted men from the Hospital Corps was sent to Quarantine Island. They inoculated all the immigrants and cared for the sick, fed and housed the well, and stood guard at night to prevent any break of quarantine.

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In March, 1910, some eight hundred Russian immigrants arrived at
Honolulu to work in the cane fields. It was discovered that a number of them were suffering from diphtheria. The entire contingent was immediately isolated on Quarantine Island by the Board of Health. The Board of Health I was unequipped to care for a situation of this size and asked the National Guard to take over the quarantine!” A detachment of one surgeon and ten enlisted men from the Hospital Corps was ordered to active duty and sent to Quarantine Island. They quickly inoculated all the immigrants and iso­lated them in three camps, one for the sick, one for the suspects, and one for the well.

For two weeks this detachment cared for the sick, fed and housed the well, and stood guard at night to prevent any break of quarantine. The immigrants were helpless, ignorant, and unable to speak English. This naturally led to misunderstandings and the detachment had to be on the alert at all times to keep the situation in hand. By March 22nd the danger of an epidemic had passed, and the Hospital Detachment was returned to civil life.

History of the Hawaii National Guard pp. 58

A military hospital and quarantine was established for the purpose of taking care of the sick among the Russian immigrants and preventing the spread of diphtheria in the city of Honolulu.

The following orders and reports show the extent of the work performed:

Territory of Hawaii

The Adjutant General’s Office,

Honolulu.

March 8, 1910

Special Orders:

No. 2.

Permission having been granted to the Board of Health of the Territory of Hawaii to establish a temporary quarantine on the United States Marine Hospital Reservation on Quarantine Island, and to use all buildings and structures necessary to such quarantine, the Adjutant General is directed to assume control of such portion of Quarantine Island as may be indicated by the officers of the United States Marine Hospital Service, and to establish a quarantine camp thereon.

Dy order of the Governor,

JOHN W. JOXES.

The Adjutant General

Territory of Hawaii

The Adjutant General’s Office,

Honolulu.

March 8. 1910.

Special Orders:

No. 4

1. In accordance with the provisions of S. O. 2. A. G. 0. c.s.. the Adjutant General assumes control of all that portion of Quarantine Island lying west of a line drawn north and south. such line being 100 feet east of the row of buildings on said Quarantine Island known and designated as number ”3″ and ”1st Cabin Hospital.” and designates such portion of Quarantine Island as a quarantine encampment.

2. Captain AN. Sinclair, retired, is returned to the active list of officers of the National Guard and, under the direction of the President of the Board of Health of the Territory of Hawaii, will assume command of and maintain a strict quarantine of the above described quarantine encampment. but will only assume jurisdiction over such buildings and structures within the limits of said encampment as may be placed at his disposal by the officers of the United States Marine Hospital Service.

3. A detail of four noncommissioned officers and six privates of the Hospital Corps will report for duty to the commanding officer of the quarantine encampment.

4. The Quartermaster and Commissary Departments of the National Guard, under the direction of the President of the Board of Health, will assume charge of the purchase, preparation and distribution of all subsistence and supplies necessary for the encampment.

5. All commanding officers will render assistance when required to maintain the quarantine established.

6. The service uniform will be worn by all members of the National Guard detailed for quarantine duty.

7. All service will be performed without arms.

8. All persons (except officers and employees of the United States Marine Hospital Service) are cautioned to observe the quarantine established and not to enter within the lines established by this order without first obtaining permission from the President of the Board of Health or the commanding officer of the encampment.

Any violation of this order will subject the person guilty here of to arrest and detention for the entire time of the quarantine and a fine of twenty-five dollars.

9. All persons quarantined. and all persons engaged in maintaining the quarantine, will obey the orders and rules established by the commanding officer of the quarantine encampment.

By order of the Governor,

JOHX W. JONES,

The Adjutant General.

May 6. 1910.

Hon. W. F. Frear.

Governor of Hawaii.

Sir:- I have the honor to report, that in compliance with your verbal instructions a quarantine camp was established on the United States Marine Hospital Reservation on Quarantine Island on the 9th day of March. 1910, under the provisions of Special Orders Nos. 2 and 4, A. G. O. 8, March 10, copies of which are annexed hereto.

On March 9th. the Territorial Board of Health placed in charge of the commanding officer of the quarantine camp two parties of Russian immigrants numbering 561, which number was increased from time to time to 800.

Three camps were established within the quarantine lines, a fourth being added later, as the various parties of Russians had to be isolated from each other. One camp was in a large stockade containing the necessary buildings for all purposes, one camp in a barrack building in which were placed 72 persons with diphtheretic throats, and another camp in three barrack buildings. Later the four barrack buildings composed one camp, and two camps of hospital tents and wall tents were established. Other diseases developing, such as measles, mumps, chickenpox, erysipelas, cerebra-spinal meningitis and whooping cough, the persons suffering therefrom and in contact therewith were isolated in separate tents.

The medical staff consisted of two doctors, at times assisted by from one to three other doctors, generally four nurses and a Hospital Corps detachment. A sufficient guard was maintained to keep all camps properly quarantined.

Ninety per cent of the immigrants were practically penniless.

Almost immediately upon the arrival of the immigrants they commenced to make demands for labor at $45.00 per month, although many of them on being questioned admitted that they had been promised but $22.50, the equivalent of 45 roubles, explaining their demand by saying that the purchasing power of a rouble in Russia was the same as the purchasing power of a dollar in the Territory of Hawaii. * * * *

By permission of the health authorities, during the quarantine Mr. Lightfoot had access to the camps of the immigrants as their legal adviser with his own interpreters.

On March 22, 1909, Mr. Richard Ivers, Superintendent of Immigration, and Mr. Lightfoot, visited the quarantine camps, and Mr. Lightfoot addressed the immigrants, advising- them to go to work and to accept the employment offered by the plantations. The results were negative.

Prior to March 22, 1910, Mr. L. Dombrovsky, a Russian interpreter who came to Honolulu with one party of the Russian immigrants, reported that 21 of the 251 immigrants in his party desired to accept work on the plantations at the wage offered, to with $22.50 per month, with free house. wood, water and medical attention, but were afraid to let the fact be known to the rest of the party for fear of bodily violence.

On March 22, 1910, a committee of six was selected from the 21 above referred to, to have cultures made from their throats, preparatory, if negative results were shown, to going to Waialua Plantation and making a report of the conditions concerning labor on the plantation. The committee was isolated a short distance from one of the camps, from which threats of bodily injury were shouted across to them in case they carried out their intention of going to the plantation to get information and observe conditions from which to make their report.

On Thursday, March 24th, the committee went to Waialua Plantation and, returning to the quarantine camp, reported that the conditions were as represented by the plantation agents.

On Friday, March 25, the remaining 15 of the original 21 above referred to, together with 12 others who had joined them, were taken from Camp No. 1 and established with the committee in Camp 4, being jeered and threatened when leaving Camp 1.

On Monday, March 28, of this party of 33 immigrants, 32 went. to and accepted employment on Waialua Plantation.

About March 19, 1910, a well developed scheme to keep the immigrants from going to work on the plantations, was reported, to wit: The establishment of a general fund from which all were to be subsisted, each immigrant to contribute one-half of the wages received for any labor obtained in and around Honolulu.After release from quarantine, the promise of immediate financial assistance from those having means, and the formation of an administrative council to conduct the business affairs of the immigrants.

* * * *

In this same connection, my information is, that a Russian named Vasilief, arrived in Honolulu during the month of March, 1910, with the avowed purpose of preventing employment of his countrymen on the plantations, and since his arrival he has been very active advising Russian immigrants not to accept work on plantations.

Upon the release of the immigrants from quarantine, the reported scheme to keep the immigrants from going to work above referred to, was put into active operation, * * * local people materially assisting with subsistence and medical supplies, while the administrative council compelled contributions to the general fund and tried and punished all those opposing them or failing to carry out their rules.

Respectfully,

J. W. JONES,

Col. and Adjt. Genl., Hawaii

1909-1910 Annual Report pp. 56-59

05 NOV 1911 – 31 JAN 1912 A yellow fever epidemic broke out in Honolulu. To prevent the spread of disease, a quarantine facility was established in the Kalihi district and the known cases isolated. The National Guard of Hawaiʻi assisted in maintaining the quarantine. Read about it on page 69 in the 1911-1912 Annual Report, on page 17 in the 1923-1924 Annual Report, and on page 58 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

World War I started July 28, 1914

1914 The 1st Infantry, National Guard of Hawaiʻi, was brought up to its full strength of twelve companies, nine in Honolulu, two on Maui, and one on Hawaiʻi. In addition, there was the Detachment of Sanitation Troops and the Band. The National Guard of Hawaiʻi diversity increased as men of all nationalities offered their services. Formerly, Caucasians, Hawaiians and Portuguese made up the majority of the Guardsmen. Filipinos, Japanese, Chinese, Koreans, Porto Ricans, Russians, and others joined. Read about in on page 62 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

25 MAY 1915 – 1918 The Naval Militia Board was appointed by Governor Pinkham after the legislative session established a Naval Militia in the Territory of Hawaiʻi. By December of 1916 the Naval Militia had nine commissioned officers and 100 enlisted men. During World War I the Naval Militia was ordered into federal service, but only a small number of enlisted were accepted, while the remainder were discharged and the Naval Militia ceased to exist.

On April 6, 1917, the U.S. entered the war on the Allies’ side

03 JUN 1916 National Guard of Hawaiʻi is federalized and placed it directly under the control of the War Department because of the approaching war. It was asked to recruit to war-time strength to prepare for mobilization. The National Defense Act stated that enlistment in the National Guard was limited to citizens of the U.S. or those with declared intention of becoming citizens. Under this provision the War Department refused to recognize the Filipino portion of the National Guard of Hawaiʻi, which comprised half of the enlisted force. Read about in on pages 70-71 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

09 APR 1917 The War Department issued a general order for the discharge of all enlisted men of the National guard having family dependent upon them for support. By the fall of 1917 permission was granted to reenlist the men. Read about in on page 72 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

18 JUN 1917 The Selective Draft Act came into effect to recruit for the war. The men were assigned to the 1st and 2nd Hawaiian Infantry. Read about in on pages 78-79 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

01 JUL 1917 The National Guard of Hawaiʻi reorganized by ethnicity. Read about in on pages 73-74 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

13 OCT 1917- 31 Jan 1918 The National Guard of Hawaiiʻ at the request of the Territorial Board of Health guarded the Nuuanu Valley Water Shed from contamination. Read about it on page 8 in the 1917-1918 Annual Report and on page 17 in the 1923-1924 Annual Report and on page 74 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

01 JUN 1918 The 1st Regiment, 2nd Regiment, Hawaiian Infantry, National Guard of Hawaiʻi and all members of the Medical Corps were order to mobilization camp.

World War I ended with the Armistice of Nov. 11, 1918.

DEC 1918 A total of 4,443 men were drafted, accepted, and assigned to active duty. None left Hawaiʻi due to a variety of factors from concerns over a depleted workforce, delays in reaching wartime strength, and not being a priority for the War Department. Though not for a lack of trying Hawaiʻi was commended on its wartime efforts and willingness to serve.

1919 The National Guard of Hawaiʻi was demobilized, returned to Territorial status, and reorganized.

Shield

03 OCT 1919 The 111th Army Band, HIARNG was federally recognized as the Band Section, Headquarters Company, 1st Infantry.

Documents from the

1920-1929
Shield

19 – 21 FEB 1922 The Detachment 1, Company G, 3rd Battalion, 126th Aviation Regiment, HARNG was federally recognized as Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 181st Infantry.

20 AUG 1923 1st Infantry, National Guard of Hawaiʻi was redesignated as the 298th infantry. The 2nd infantry was redesignated 299th infantry. Read about in on page 83 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

09 – 29 SEP 1924 A provisional company was called to aid civil authorities on Kauai after a clash occurred between striking labors and police. Read about in on pages 15-17 in the 1924-1925 Annual Report, on page 8 in the 1925-1926 Annual Report and on page 90 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

1925 The Territorial Legislature changed the title of the National Guard of Hawaiʻi to the Hawaiʻi National Guard by the wording of Acts 52 and 131. Read about it on page 30 in the 1925-1926 Annual Report

20 SEP 1928 A Provisional Battalion of the 298th Infantry responded to the call of the Governor to aid the civil authorities in preserving law and order during an emergency in Honolulu. Read about it on page 10 in the 1928-1929 Annual Report and on page 90 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

14 AUG – 1 OCT 1929 The Hawaiʻi National Guard Match Team and 12 shooting members departed for Camp Perry, Ohio to participate in the National Matches, finishing in 32nd out of a total of 109 participants.

Hawaiʻi National Guard Match Team and 12 shooting members departed for camp Perry, Ohio to participate in the National Matches, finishing in 32nd place out of a total of 109 participants.
(Picture from the 1930-1931 Annual Report)

1929 – 1930 The General Staff was restructured as G-1 (Personnel & organization) G-2 (Information & Intelligence), G-3 (plans & training & operations), and G-4 (Transportations & Supply).

Documents from the

1930-1939

25 MAY 1930 The Adjutant General put out a call to assist with fighting a fire on board the S. S. City of Honolulu. Guardsmen established a first aid station and acted as relief fireman and policemen.

27 – 28 FEB 1935 Hawaiʻi National Guard troops in Honolulu were called to active duty during storm conditions to preserve order, rescue persons and property, and prevent looting. One platoon (1 officer and 30 enlisted men) was on duty till March 1st under the direction of the Chief of Police of the City and County of Honolulu. Read about in on page 11 in the 1934-1935 Annual Report and on page 91 in the History of the Hawaii National Guard

history of the Hawaiʻi National Guard

JAN 1936 A history of the Hawaiʻi National Guard was complied. Which enabled the 298th and 299th Infantries to submit their histories to the War department for the approval coat of arms and Insignia. Read about in on pages 27-30 in the 1935-1936 Annual Report

World War II started Sep. 1, 1939

Documents from the

1940-1949

15 OCT 1940 The 298th and 299th Infantries (totaling 1,802 officers and men) were ordered into Federal Service for 12 months. They were stationed at Schofield Barracks and used mainly for defense of the Hawaiian Islands.

December 1941, Japan attacked American and British territories, including the attack on Pearl Harbor which resulted in the U.S. declaring war.

07 DEC 1941 At 10:30 AM Governor Joseph Poindexter authorized the activation of the Hawaiʻi Territorial Guard (“Home Guard”). Later on, Oct. 29, 1941 the Authority for the organization of the Hawaiʻi Territorial Guard was provided by Act 84, Special Session of the 1941 Territorial Legislature. Read about it on pages 13-20 in the 1941-1942 Annual Report.

08 DEC 1941 Guardsmen captured the first Japanese prisoner of war of World War II off Bellows Army Airfield.

DEC 1941 Hawaiʻi National Guard Officer Jack Hifuo Mizuha led the investigation into the Niihau Incident, where a Japanese pilot crash-landed and was aided by residents.

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Japanese Hawaii Guard officer leads Niihau incident inspection team

By Retired Master Sgt. Stephen M. Lum

Pre-World War II Hawaii

Before the United States is “drawn” into World War II, Maui-born, American of Japanese Ancestry “Jack” Hifuo Mizuha prepares for a life time of community service. His parents were among the earliest Japanese immigrants from Hiroshima Prefecture to come to Hawaii when it was still a kingdom and he was born Nov. 5, 1913, when Hawaii was a U.S. Territory. Mizuha attends the University of Hawaii where he earns undergraduate degrees in business and economics in 1934. While at the university, he joins the Reserve Officer Training Corps which pays for his schooling and he is awarded an officers commission after successfully completing the program. He joins the Hawaii National Guard’s 299th Infantry shortly after graduation.

Jack continues his studies at the university working on a master’s in education. To earn money to pay for his schooling, he works as a Honolulu Police Department reporter/police patrolman clerk, where he also learns shorthand. He meet a young police officer named James A. Burns, who becomes Hawaii’s second Hawaii State governor. Dualcitizen Mizuha, divests himself of his Japanese citizenship Mar. 28, 1936 in formal expatriation proceedings, severing ties with his father’s country of birth. After earning his degree in 1936, he moves to Kauai for a teaching position at Waimea High School, where he meets and marries a fellow teacher. On Sept. 3, 1939 he becomes Kauai’s Huleia School principal and six days later is place on active duty as the U.S. prepares for an anticipated involvement in the war raging in Europe and the Asian-Pacific theatres. He is one of the original 40 AJA members of the Hawaii Guard to be mobilized on Oct. 15, 1940. Militarily the first lieutenant is assigned to Company M, 299th Infantry, at Burns Field, Hanapepe, Kauai, becoming unit commander in August 1941.

Niihau incident capsulized

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Imperial Japanese Navy fighter pilot Petty Officer 1st Class Shigenori Nishikaichi crash lands his disabled A6M3 Zero on what he thinks is an uninhabited island (isolated island Niihau off Kauai) on Dec. 7, 1941, the day of the Pearl Harbor attack.

The island’s 100 plus civilian population, which had no telephones or radios, had not heard of the attack events on Oahu. The first to see the Japanese pilot is Hawila “Howard” Hanohano as the Zero crashes in front of his home. Hanohano pulls the groggy Nishikaichi clear of the plane, removing his sidearm and official looking papers. Hanohano feeds the pilot breakfast at his home, while a Japan-born 60-year old beekeeper, Ishimatsu Shintani, is summoned to translate. Shintani, a 41-year Hawaii resident, who had child born in the island and therefore were American citizens, wanted not part of questionable situation. Another Niihau AJA resident, Yoshio Harada, a bookkeeper, is then brought translate for Nishikaichi and is intimidated by the pilot who tells the Haradas about the attack on Oahu and a rescue submarine was on its way. Harada and his wife Irene are swayed into helping the stranded pilot. The Haradas fearing for their safety, not only translate for Nishikaichi, but align themselves with the invader. The lightly secured Zero pilot and Harada secure weapons and threaten to kill island residents if they don’t help them. The week long standoff come to a head when Nishikaichi shoots Benehakaka “Benny” Kanahele three time and despite his wounds, Kanehele kills the pilot by lifting him up and knocking his head against a wall. As Kanahele’s wife, Ella, hit Nishikaichi repeatedly with a rock, Benny sliced the pilot’s throat. Shortly thereafter, a scared Harada commits suicide.

Several days’ later, Hanohano and other locals, who escaped on a lifeboat earlier, arrive on Kauai and inform the authorities. The events would lend “credence” those who preached not trusting AJAs and talk of internment.

Military deploys investigation team

Later that week, eager to prove his loyalty, 1st Lt. Mizuha volunteers to lead 13 enlisted Soldiers from the Hawaii Guard’s Hanapepe unit to the island of Niihau to capture the pilot, rescue the local population and investigate what happened.

Among the volunteers is Kauai AJA Pfc. Ben Kobayashi, whose family also migrated from Hiroshima. Kobayashi, who joined the Hawaii Guard Nov. 10, 1940, was to serve as Mizuha’s driver/translator. The “old,” over 30 Soldier, didn’t know that a former co-worker was the local (Harada) who helped the Zero pilot.

Mizuha, who was the Burns Air Field (Hanapepe, Kauai) unit commander up until Dec. 7, 1941, was demoted to executive officer in response to white officer’s concerns of the loyalty of Japanese American Soldiers of the Hawaii Guard. After landing on Niihau, Mizuha leads the detachment across the island. Survivors are questioned as Mizuha uses his police-reporter learned shorthand to take comprehensive notes. The dead bodies of the Nishikaichi and Harada are found and buried. The confiscated Japanese pilot’s papers and detainees Shintani and Irene Harada are brought for further review on Kauai. Niihau’s Irene Harada is incarcerated until June 1944 and Ishimatsu Shintani is eventually sent to an internment camp on the mainland. Mizuha is transferred to Schofield Barracks, where he is promoted to captain. In 1945, Kanahele receives a Purple Heart and Medal of Merit from U.S. government. The remnants of the Japanese Zero today is on display at the Pacific Aviation Museum on Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, Oahu.

Japanese American Soldiers, including Mizuha, removed from Hawaii Guard units

Newly promoted Capt. Mizuha is assigned as Co. D, 299th Infantry. commander, and quickly earns the respect of his young Soldiers. “I remember him very well,” recalled veteran Goro Sumida in a 2012 interview “He came and raided our crap game and gave all the money to the Red Cross.” More fallout for the AJA Soldiers after the Pearl Harbor attack included weapons being “turned-in” and demotions from guard missions to work details. On May 28, 1942, Mizuha and all the other AJAs were removed from the ranks of the 298th and 299th Infantry Regimenst, 798 men from the 298th and 608 men from the 299th along with 28 officers.

100th Infantry Battalion goes to war While the federalized AJAs Soldiers, originally scheduled to discharge are moved and form the nucleus of the newly created Hawaiian Provisional Infantry Battalion, AJA Hawaii Territorial Guard Soldiers were dismissed Jan. 19 (many were University ROTC cadets were now 4C, enemy aliens status).

In June 1942, the provisional battalion boards the U.S. Transport Maui, bound for the mainland and eventually Camp McCoy, Wis. While in transit the unit was activated as the 100th Infantry Bn. (Separate). After more training the battalion goes on to Salerno, Italy, in the European theatre of operations and breaks racial barriers for its newly created bigger brother the 442th Regimental Combat Team. The 100th Bn. later becomes the 442nd RCT’s first infantry battalion, but retained the 100th name (2nd and 3rd Infantry Battalions follow the normal protocol of names).

Maui-born 1st Sgt. Takashi Kitaoka, Co. B, 100th Bn., said that upon landing in Salerno, Italy, in September 1943, he and Mizuha were huddled together as projectiles were landing nearby, “We’re sitting here being shelled, let’s move over there and get away from this place.” ‘And Mizuha says, Kit, don’t move. They already shelled here. They are not going to shell here again [if they don’t see anybody].’ He was a very smart guy.” Kitaoka, who went on to become a Maui Circuit Court Judge, recently died Aug. 9, 2016, at the age of 104. On Sept. 29, shortly after arriving in Salerno, Mizuha volunteers to lead a team to located where a German machine gun nest is holding up the advance of the 100th Battalion. Kobayashi (Mizuha’s Kauai driver) chimed in, “Mizuha was a good man; he is always volunteering for stuff.” While leading the troops against heavy gun fire in Colli, Italy, he suffered a bullet wound that entered his back, narrowly missing his spine and lungs. He survives the wound, but is hospitalized for nearly a year, first to Africa, then to North Carolina and finally Chicago.

Disabling injuries exempting him from further military service do not stop Mizuha from fighting for the correcting the injustices done to the AJA Soldiers. While convalescing he writes public letters defending the loyalty and rights of the AJAs. The President’s wife, Eleanor, invites him to the White House where his ask the First Lady “to support measures to grant citizenship to the parents of Nisei soldiers.” He wrote letters for fellow Soldiers letting those at home, like politicians, public officials and employers know, that the returning Soldiers would need jobs and assistance adjusting to life with various mental and physical disabilities. Much like today’s Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, and the Veterans Administration work for the veterans.

Mizuha’s post military career

Mizuha returns to Hawaii after he had been medically discharged and returns to his educational career with an appointment as principal of Hanamaulu School on Kauai. His wartime injuries did not slow down his continued fight to inform communities, Rotary clubs and other organizations about the need to assist returning veterans readjustment to everyday life back home in the islands. After the war ends, he used the G.I. Bill to attend the University of Michigan Law School and returned to Kauai and passed the Hawaii Bar exam. Mizuha become one of the few 100th Bn., 442nd RCT veterans to join the Republican Party. In 1948, he runs for and is elected to Kauai’s Board of Supervisors (prelude to County Council) and later a Territory constitutional convention delegate. He also serves an appointment as a University of Hawaii regent in the 1950s. In 1958, he serves as Hawaii’s attorney general, following year he is appointed as an Oahu circuit court justice. In 1961, Republican Gov. William F. Quinn appoints Mizuha to the state Supreme Court as an associate justice. In one of his first duties, Mizuha gets to swear in his battle buddy Takashi Kitaoka as a Maui Circuit Court justice. After an eight year appointment, where he championed individual rights, protecting the Constitution, collective bargaining and free public schools, Mizuha retired to his own private law practice.

Club 100 legacy

Mizuha was an original member of the 100th Battalion and a founding member of Club 100, the 100th Infantry Battalion Veterans. Members had a set amount of the paycheck during their activation put into a fund to build a club house where 100th Battalion members, their families and friends could gather after the war for fellowship and community activism (fighting for veteran’s rights and benefits). As active as Jack was in fighting for the rights of others, he rarely frequented the club house or discussed the war. He died in 1972 at age 72.

2016 November Pupukahi pp. 4-5

28 JAN 1942 The Army transport General Royal T. Frank was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine, which had onboard  had newly recruited Soldiers who were supposed to rendezvous with Hilo’s 299th Infantry. Survivors were found by a tugboat and taken to Hana. Nine survivors served with the 298th Infantry on Oahu where they worked in the motor pool and eight were later transferred to the 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry.

01 FEB 1942 Lt. Col.Philip Lindeman was appointed, to the Hawaiʻi Territorial Guard as its Commanding Officer, responsible for the training, equipment and administration. Read about it on pages 13-20 in the 1941-1942 Annual Report.

1942 During the summer many guardsmen left to form the distinguished 100th Infantry Battalion. Read about it on page 8 in the 1991 October – December Pūpūkahi, page 4-5 of the 1993 February – March Pūpūkahi, page 6 of the 1969 Summer The Hawaii Guardsman and page 17 of the 1968 Spring The Hawaii Guardsman

1944 The 298th Infantry and 111th Army band was sent to the South Pacific. Read about it on page 8 in the 1991 October – December Pūpūkahi and page 17 of the 1968 Spring The Hawaii Guardsman

World War II ended with the formal surrender of Japan on Sept. 2, 1945.

04 AUG 1946 The Hawaiʻi National Guard was demobilized and returned to Territorial status. Read about it on page 4 in the 1946-1947 Annual Report

09 SEP 1946 The Headquarters, Headquarters Company 103rd Troop Command, HIARNG received federal recognition.

09 SEP 1946 The 298th Multi-Functional Training Regiment, HIARNG received federal recognition.

04 NOV 1946 The Hawaiʻi Air National Guard was formed, one year before the founding of the U.S. Air Force. The original four units, the 199th Fighter Squadron, the 199th Utility Flight, the 199th Weather Station, and Detachment C, 199th Air Service Group, operated out of Bellows Field flying the P-47 Thunderbolt aircraft. 

04 NOV 1946 The 199th Fighter Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

04 NOV 1946 The 199th Weather Flight (Fixed), HIANG was federally recognized.

HING logo

08 SEP 1947 The Joint Force Headquarters, Army Element, HIARNG received federal recognition.

15 DEC 1947 The Company B, 777th Aviation Support Company, HIARNG received federal recognition.

The Cold War started in 1947.

JAN 1949 Waimea, Kauai was flooded causing millions of dollars worth of damage. A company of the Hawaiʻi National Guard and the air shipment of emergency supplies was sent from Oahu. Read about it on page 21 in the 1948-1949 Annual Report

02 OCT 1949 Elements of the Hawaiʻi National Guard assisted municipal and armed forces fire-fighting teams with the Lanikai-Keolu Hills brush fire. Read about it on page 17 in the 1949-1950 Annual Report

Documents from the

1950-1959

01 JUN 1950 The 199th Fighter Squadron, HIANG and personnel of the 299th Regimental Combat Team, HIARNG performed aerial reconnaissance and photographic missions during a volcanic eruption. Read about it on page 18 in the 1949-1950 Annual Report

The Korean War started on June 25, 1950.

15 – 18 AUG 1950 A flash flood of the Waimea river, Kauai swept through the town. Roughly twenty volunteers from the 3rd Battalion, 298th Infantry, HIARNG rushed to rescue 80 people who were trapped. The 199th Fighter Squadron, HIANG assisted with carrying the essential supplies to care for the evacuees.

26 – 27 MAR 1951 Continuous rains caused flood conditions, the 613th Ordnance Company, HIARNG assisted police evacuation work in Koko Head. While in Kailua, Oahu Company G, 298th Infantry, HIARNG assisted with reconnaissance, evacuation missions, transporting medical personnel and supplies into the area, anti-looting patrols, rescue work, and traffic control. Read about it on page 14 in the 1950-1951 Annual Report

01 JAN 1952 The Headquarters, Hawaiʻi Air National Guard, HIANG was federally recognized.

29 – 31 DEC 1952 During drought conditions on the slopes of Haleakala a forest fire broke out. The next day five units of 1st Battalion 299th Infantry, HIARNG and Heavy Mortar Company, HIARNG were mobilized for firefighting duty. Read about it on page 6 in the 1953 Annual Report

The Korean War ceased with an armistice on July 27, 1953

04 JAN 1954 Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, HIARNG was federally recognized as the 120th Signal Support Company.

01 SEP 1955 The 483rd Field Artillery Battalion, 105mm Howitzer was reorganized and redesignated to the 158th Anti-Aircraft 190mm Artillery Battalion. It was the first Army Guard unit in Hawaiʻi to became part of the Air Defense Team. Read about it on page 3 in the 1955 Annual Report and on page 25-26 in the HANG 25 History of Hawaii Air National Guard

The Vietnam War started Nov. 1, 1955.

07 OCT 1956 The 169th Air Defense Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

01 JUL 1956 The Hawaiʻi Air National Guard assumed the full-time air defense mission, becoming the first reserve unit responsible for the entire air defense of a given region.

09 MAR 1957 The Hawaiʻi National Guard was called into service to assist civil authorities and patrol after a series of tidal waves hit the northshore of Kauai causing property damage and bridges to collapse. Read about it on page 5 in the 1957 Annual Report

15 JAN 1958 The 298th AAA Group converted from 90mm Guns to Nike-Hercules as the first National Guard unit in the U.S. to convert to the Nike-Hercules Air Defense System.

6 FEB – 8 MAR 1958 There was a drought in Kona and the Hawaiʻi National Guard assisted by hauling in water to local communities to provide distribution to residents.

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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

30 MAY – 1 JUN 1958 120th Military Police Company, HIARNG and personnel from the 120th Signal Support Company, 121st Signal Detachment and 613th Ordnance Company, HIARNG assisted the Honolulu Police Department in accident prevention. Duties consisted of patrolling the highways and congested areas on Oahu, and reporting traffic violations. Read about it on page 7 in the 1958 Annual Report

JAN 1959 The 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, HIARNG was organized.

Hawaiʻi became the 50th state on Aug. 21, 1959

18 DEC 1959 The 154th Civil Engineer Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

Documents from the

1960-1969

13 JAN 1960 The 2nd Battle Group, 299th Infantry, HIARNG provided support during the 33-day volcanic eruption at Kapoho. Including buses and trucks to assist in the evacuation of civilians and property, vehicular radio communications, aircraft for aerial observation and ferrying Federal and State officials to the disaster area.

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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
Shield

01 MAY 1960 The 117th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, HIARNG was federally recognized as the 117th Public Information Detachment.

23 MAY 1960 A tsunami struck Hilo, resulting in the deaths of 57 people and widespread destruction. Guardsmen were mobilized to assist with communications, security, recovery of victims, and the evacuation of civilians, often working under difficult and hazardous conditions.

29 JUL 1960 The Fort Ruger Internal Security Detachment was ordered to state active duty to assist Oahu prison officials with a disturbance in the prison. Read about it on page 6 in the 1961 Annual Report

01 DEC 1960 The 154th Wing, HIANG was federally recognized as the 154th Fighter Group.

01 DEC 1960 154th Medical Group, HIANG was federally recognized.

01 DEC 1960 154th Maintenance Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

08 MAY 1961 The first Officer Candidate School at Fort Ruger was established. Read about it on page 5 in the 1961 Annual Report

01 APR 1963 The Hawaiʻi Army National Guard became one of the first reserve units reorganized in the Department of the Army’s ROAD concept. Read about it on page 4 in the 1963 Annual Report

28 JUN 1963 Graduation ceremonies were held for the first class from Hawaiiʻs Officer Candidate School with 19 candidates.

16 NOV 1963 The Royal Guard was founded. Read about it on page 45 in the HANG 25 History of Hawaii Air National Guard and page 15-16 in the Mo’olelo Kahiko Helu Ekahi- Tradition of Excellence 40th Anniversary Hawaii Air National Guard

22 JUL 1964 The world Nike-Hercules Intercept Record was set by B Battery, 1st Missile Battalion, 298th Artillery Group, HIARNG.

20 JAN 1965 The Royal Guard represented Hawaiʻi at President Lyndon Johnson’s Inaugural Parade in Washington, D. C.

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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

25 NOV 1966 The Adjutant General of Hawaiʻi was assigned a federal mission to support state civil defense operations. 

06 MAR 1967 The 291st Combat Communications Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

13 OCT 1967 The 297th Air Traffic Control Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

13 OCT 1967 The 292nd Combat Communications Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

11 APR 196813 DEC 1969 For the first time since World War II, a unit of the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard, the 29th Infantry Brigade was federally activated.

01 JUL 1968 – 1970 Hawaiʻi Air National Guard F-102 pilots flew bomber escort missions during the Vietnam War. The Palace Alert program, rotating Air National Guard pilots to Southeast Asia, was first proposed by the HIANG.

09 DEC 1969 The 298th Artillery Group, HIARNG was “phased-out” of the Air Defense System of the State. This unit had provided round-the-clock air defense of the since 1958.

Documents from the

1970-1979
Shield

01 APR 1970 The 230th Engineer Company, Engineer Vertical Construction Company, HIARNG was federally recognized as the 298th Engineer Detachment.

SEP 1970 The Hawaiʻi Air National Guard Non-Commissioned Officer Academy was established.

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HARNG ‘S BRAND NEW NCO SCHOOL

The Army National Guard recently conducted graduation exercises for its first NCO school class. The school fills a definite need within HARNG, that of a formal in-house course for NCO’s and prospective NCO’s. The course was initially designed to run for three weekend drills; however, recommendations from the staff and students have resulted in a new five-week program.

The course includes classes on leadership, methods of instruction,
administration and drill and command. The new curriculum will emphasize practical work in leadership and will include seminars on the Guard’s place in the community and its role in solving current community problems.

The new course will have no restrictions on the applicant’s rank; as
a matter of fact, commanders are encouraging E-3’s and E-4’s to enroll. The next class will begin in February

1970 Winter The Hawaii Guardsman pp. 11

NCO ACADEMY

The HARNG Non-Commissioned Officer Academy was established in September 1970. The objectives of the academy are: to provide training in selected military subjects, to provide training in the practical aspects of small unit leadership, and to improve the professional quality of the NCO corps in the HARNG. The school is operated by the staff of the Officer Candidate School and the curriculum consists of approximately 85 hours of classroom work and practical field exercises in general subjects, weapons and tactics. Class 1-71 began in September and graduated 24 students in November. Honor graduate of this class was SP4 Milton K. K. Hee, Detachment 1, Headters & Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 299th Infantry. Class 2-71 began in February 1971 and graduated 28 students in June 1971. Honor graduate of this class was SP4 Harold J. Mau, 292d Supply & Service Company.

1971 Annual Report pp. 13
HIANG 25th

04 NOV 1971 The Hawaiʻi Air National Guard was formed 25 years ago. Read about it on page 10 in the 971 Winter The Hawaii Guardsman

21 JUL 1971 The Hawaii National Guard recruited its first woman, 1st Lt. Barbara O’Hare.

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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 State of Washington broke a 300-year old tradition recently, when it enlisted the first Army National Guard WAC (Women’s Army Corps), SP5 Dora Campbell.

Two days later, Alaska enlisted SP5 Mary L. Cunningham to further the break-through for women.

Here in Hawaii, the Hawaii Air National Guard recruited its first woman member, First Lieutenant Barbara O’Hare, on July 21, 1971 after a yearlong chase from California to Hawaii to Alaska and back.

It wasn’t until 1956, when Congress amended the law, that women could be members of the Guard. Both Army and Air National Guard units began signing up nurses almost immediately.

However, it wasn’t until a year ago that the Air Guard signed up its first WAF (Women in the Air Force ). The Army Guard, because of its combat role, has been faced with a lack of spaces suitable for women. The two first ARNG WACs will be working at their respective State headquarters.

Only non-prior service women in grades E-5 and above are currently being accepted.

The National Guard Bureau and the WAC Directorate in Department of the Army, are analyzing MOSs within the Army Guard Troop structure to determine where other WACs could serve. According to a Bureau spokesman, only a handful of Army Guard units will have openings for WACs.

According to HARNG G-3, Lieutenant Colonel Manuel DeMello, WACs should be authorized in Hawaii’s Army Guard by March 1972. But don’t expect to see an immediate improvement in the HARNG’s appearance. The women will only be authorized in about a half dozen slots in the headquarters detachment. Furthermore, those slots are now occupied by qualified men. So it all amounts to matching a qualified prior-service woman with the correct vacant slot. The immediate chances look slim from here.

1971 Winter The Hawaii Guardsman pp. 6

The first WAFs were enlisted in HANG in 1972 – 1Lt Barbara O’Hare and A1C Phyllis Dickens.

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

The first WAFs were enlisted in HANG in 1972-Lt. Barbara O’Hare and A1C Phyllis Dickens. Iris Kabazawa was the first NPS female enlistee.

Mo’olelo Kahiko Helu Ekahi- Tradition of Excellence 40th Anniversary Hawaii Air National Guard pp. 20

01 APR 1973 Hawaiʻi Air National Guard Aviation was reorganized into two separate flying units and one aircraft maintenance company. Read about it on page 11 in the 1973 Annual Report

26 APR 1973 Hawaiʻi Army National Guard transported potable water to residents of Kaiwiki and Laupahoehoe due to an earthquake that hit the area. Read about it on page 28 in the 1973 Annual Report

01 APR 1973 The 29th Infantry Brigade, HIARNG converted into a divisional brigade configuration. The Brigade was designated as a “roundout” unit for the 25th Infantry Division.

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29th Brigade marriage plans

The Governor of Hawaii recently announced a reorganization of the Hawaii Army National Guard (HARNG) that will become effective in April. The change, arrived at jointly by the State Adjutant General’s office, the Department of the Army and Headquarters, United States Army Pacific (USARPAC), will streamline the Hawaii Guard’s largest unit, the 29th Infantry Brigade, making it a divisional rather than a separate brigade. There will also be a slight reduction in the HARNG’s other major unit, the 298th Field Depot, and a similar reduction in the Guard headquarters.

The move will trim about 12 per cent or about 500 currently vacant spaces from HARNG’s authorization.

The change will also have an impact upon the 29th Brigade’s possible use during a nationwide mobilization. The Brigade has been designated as a “round out” unit for the Army’s locally-based 25th Infantry Division. In the event of general war, the 29th Brigade would function as the Division’s third major infantry unit, complementing the organization’s two currently assigned active duty brigades. The move does not increase the probability of the 29th’s mobilization, it merely specifies the 25th Division as the gaining division should activation occur.

1972 Winter – 1973 Spring The Hawaii Guardsman pp. 4

Strength stabilized during FY 73; however, there were reorganizations in both the Army and Air Guard during the year. The most significant change was the conversion of the 29th Infantry Brigade into a divisional brigade configuration. The 29th has been designated as a “roundout” unit for the Army’s 25th Infantry Division, a mutually beneficial arrangement.

1973 Annual Report pp. 1

The reorganization on April 1, 1973, converted the 29th Infantry Brigade from a separate infantry brigade into a divisional infantry brigade. The 29th was designated as the roundout brigade for the
25th Infantry Division. If the Brigade is mobilized in time of war, it will become the third brigade of the Division .

1973 Annual Report pp. 4

The 29th Infantry Brigade was reorganized on April I, 1973. Its structure was changed from a separate infantry brigade into that of a divisional infantry brigade.

Concurrently, the Brigade was designated as the roundout brigade for the 25th Infantry Division. It will become the third brigade of the Division in the event of federalization. The major impact of the reorganization and designation as a roundout force is as follows: (I) the 29th Brigade’s authorized strength was reduced from 3,359 to 2,993; (2) Troop E, 19th Cavalry was converted from an armored unit into an air cavalry unit; (3) the 29th Support Battalion, which provided combat service support to the Brigade, was reorganized into a supply and service battalion of divisional and non-divisional units with the addition of a light medium truck company; and (4) closer relationship between the 25th Infantry Division and the 29th Brigade, to include the designation of the brigade commander as an assistant division commander of the 25th Infantry Division, was established. . .

The Brigade is expected to receive modern equipment more rapidly and in greater quantities because of its increased readiness mission as a designated roundout unit.

1973 Annual Report pp. 11-12

OCT – NOV 1973 The Hawaiʻi Army National Guard was called to sup­port civil authorities and restore order twice at the Hawaiʻi State Prison. The operations were accomplished without any major vio­lence or confrontations.

10 FEB – 31 MAR 1975 The Hawaiʻi National Guard provided assistance at the Hawaiʻi State prison.

The Vietnam War ended with the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975.

05 – 9 FEB 1976 Heavy rains caused extensive damage in the Makaha – Waianae area, which the Hawaiʻi National Guard was called in to assist with rescue, evacuation of 500 people, and debris removal.

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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

10 APR 1976 The Hawaiʻi Army National Guard dedicated the new hangar facility located at Wheeler Air Force Base. Read about it on page 9 in the 1976 Annual Report

20 JAN 1977 The Presidential Inaugural Parade had the 111th Army Band, HIARNG, along with four Guardsmen of the Royal Guard, HIANG, participate.

01 – 5 JUN 1977 The Hawaiʻi National Guard responded to the needs of the State when Guardsmen assisted county police in searching for and destroying marijuana plants on Maui and Kauai. Read about it on page 4 and 9 in the 1977 Annual Report

12 SEP 1977 Kilauea Volcano erupted, culminating in an outpouring of lava that traveled within a quarter-of-a-mile of the village of Kalapana. The Hawaiʻi National Guard evacuated residents from the area, while roadblocks and security patrols were conducted.

02 SEP 1978 Hawaiʻi National Guard Guardsmen were placed on duty in Hilo to assist civil authorities in preventing demonstrators from closing General Lyman Field airport. Read about it on page 6 in the 1979 Annual Report

AUG 1978 – 1990 Operation Green Har­vest, was a marijuana eradication program that the National Guard provided helicopter support for.

04 JAN 1979 The 154th Security Forces Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

15 – 26 FEB 1979 Hawaiʻi Island had record breaking rainfall that caused flooding during which the Hawaiʻi National Guard provided ground and air evacuation transportation.

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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

21 OCT – 16 NOV 1979 Hawaiʻi Army National Guard troops were mobilized during a strike by state and county employees to provide security, food service, and medical assistance at state hospitals and correctional facilities.

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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

10 DEC 1979 – 5 FEB 1980 Waipio Valley, Big Island flooded and troops from the 2nd Battalion, 299th Infantry, HIARNG evacuated residents using helicopters and ground transportation. Nineteen Guardsmen stayed on duty to aid in the cleanup and restoration of the valley.

Documents from the

1980-1989

JAN 1980 During a heavy rain and windstorm Guardsmen stationed on Maui aided county civil authorities in evacuating residents and provided power generators and operators.

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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

1981 A lack of rain during the spring and summer of 1981 in the Waimea-Hamakua districts lead to drought. Hawaiʻi National Guard troops and equipment were put into service to assist in relief efforts. Read about it on the cover page of the 1981 Fall Pupukahi and on page 14 in the 1981 Annual Report

1982 Hawaiʻi Army National Guard responded to the drought in the Waimea-Hamakua districts by carrying pipes into rugged areas of the Waimea Mountains. Read about it on page 14 in the 1982 Annual Report

FEB – APR 1982 Heavy rains and flooding affected Wahiawa, Kona, and Kaupo. The Hawaiʻi National Guard assisted in evacuating endangered residents, lifting in supplies and water, damage assessment, and relief operations.

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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

APR 1982 Heavy rains washed out the water supply pipeline in Kalaupapa. Water tanks were airlifted over by helicopters while cargo aircraft brought in fresh water and pipes.

23 NOV 1982 Hurricane lwa’s destructive winds and powerful ocean surges devastated Kauai and parts of Oahu. Soldiers assisted various neighborhood communities and the Airmen contributed to the mitigation and relief effort.

JAN 1983 The Pu‘u‘ō‘ō eruption lasted for over 35 years. During which the Hawaiʻi National Guard assisted with helicopters to transport geological survey teams and Civil Defense officials to asses potential threats, providing soldiers to put out brush fires caused by the lava, and helping to evacuate Paradise Park residents.

FEB 1983 Huge storm waves as high as 30 feet hit the northern coastlines of Oahu and Kauai. Guardsmen supported the evacuation of families from threatened shoreline areas. Read about it on page 15 in the 1983 Annual Report and page 1 of the 1983 Spring Pupukahi

31 MAY 1984 The passage of House Bill 359, permanently established the tuition waiver program for qualified Guardsmen.

OCT 1986 Sgt. Maj. William Duncan Jr. becomes the first Command Senior Enlisted Leader of the Hawaiʻi National Guard.

Sgt. Maj. William L. Duncan Jr. becomes the first Command Senior Enlisted Leader of the Hawaiʻi National Guard.

05 FEB 1986 – 11 MAR 1987 The Hawaiʻi Air National Guard diligently planned and executed for the F-15A Eagle aircraft to replace the F-4C Phantom jet fighters.

HIANRG Logo

01 NOV 1986 The 103rd Troop Command, HIARNG was organized.

01 JAN 1988 The Hawaiʻi National Guard were activated to provide emergency repair and clean-up assistance after heavy rains caused extensive damage in Kailua, Hawaii Kai, and Niu Valley.

27 JAN 1988 Many Hawaiʻi National Guard Family Support Groups were formed. These groups were made up of volunteer family members and were designed to assist guard families during State or Federal mobilization.

01 JUN 1989 Guardsman provided assistance and support to the U.S. Customs Service. They assist customs inspectors in the inspecting of foreign arrival cargo containers, aircraft, postal mail and packages.

1989 – 1994 The Hawaiʻi National Guard participated in a Drug Enforcement Administration-led marijuana eradication project Op­eration Wipeout. Read about it on page 9 in the 1990 Annual Report and on page 10 in the 1991 Annual Report and on page 2 of the 1994 January Pūpūkahi

Documents from the

1990-1999

The Gulf War started Aug. 2, 1990.

1990 – 1991 The Hawaiʻi National Guard did not participate in Operations Desert Shield or Desert Storm but supported by providing C-130 air transportation for Coral Run. Following the ceasefire coordinated a statewide effort to greet 8,500 service members and numerous welcome home celebrations. Additionally, Army medical specialists were sent to Saudi Arabia to treat military personnel.

The Gulf War ended with the liberation of Kuwait on Feb. 28, 1991.

21 – 28 JUN 1991 The Hawaiʻi National Guard assisted Maui county officials in extinguishing a fire on Molokai.

Shield

01 SEP 1991 Detachment 1, Company A, 3rd Battalion, 140th Aviation Regiment was constituted as 140th Aviation in the California Army National Guard.

04 – 6 SEP 1991 Culminating five years of planning, coordination, and hard work the Hawaiʻi National Guard Association hosted the 113th National Guard Association of the U.S. annual conference. 

The Cold War ended with the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991.

14 DEC 1991 Major flooding occurred in Anahola and the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard helped evacuate civilians and assisted in cleanup.

11 SEP 1992 Hurricane Iniki, the worst storm to strike the islands, directly hit Kauai. The Adjutant General led a joint relief effort with over 5,000 Guardsmen. “Operation Iniki” was the Hawaiʻi National Guard’s largest peacetime mobilization. Medics treated injured residents door-to-door, and relief centers provided food, water, and plastic sheeting. “Operation Garden Sweep” cleaned up the island, removing over 32,000 tons of debris.

29 OCT 1992 The Ordnance Training Company, Regional Training Site-Maintenance, HIARNG was federally recognized.

15 APR 1991-12 FEB 1993 The Hawaiʻi Air National Guard began flying KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft.

12 FEB 1993 The 203rd Air Refueling Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

29 SEP 1993 The 154th Group’s C-130 assisted with the rescue of a downed civilian helicopter pilot in the ocean by directing a Marine helicopter to the proper location.

Learn More

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

17 NOV 1993  CH-47D Chinooks joined the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard arsenal as part of the new Company C, 193rd Aviation, at Wheeler Army Airfield.

04 MAY 1994 Signed into law was a state version of the Soldiers and Sailors Civil Relief Act, extending protection to Guardsmen activated on state orders. The State Legislature passed a bill that allows Guardsmen to use the Montgomery G.I. Bill concurrently with the University of Hawaiʻi tuition waiver program.

16 JUN 1994 The 154th Logistics Readiness Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

30 AUG 1994 The 29th Infantry Brigade, HIARNG was selected as one of fifteen elite Enhanced Readiness Brigades in the nation.

31 OCT 1994 The 154th Operations Group, HIANG was federally recognized.

31 OCT 1994 The 154th Operations Support Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

31 OCT 1994 The 204th Airlift Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

31 OCT 1994 The 154th Maintenance Group, HIANG was federally recognized.

31 OCT 1994 The 154th Mission Support Group, HIANG was federally recognized.

31 OCT 1994 The 154th Communications Flight, HIANG was federally recognized.

03 DEC 1994 – 11 JAN 1995, MAR 1996 Hawaiʻi Air National Guard F-15 fighter aircraft were the first to patrol the northern no-fly zone of Iraq imposed by the United Nations at the end of the Gulf War.

1995 The Aviation Intermediate Maintenance Company, HIARNG was the only National Guard unit in the nation to support the active duty Army with aviation maintenance. Read about it on page 1 of the 1995 Annual Report and page 2 of the 1995 December Pūpūkahi

16 JAN – MAR 1995 The Hawaiʻi National Guard personnel assisted in Operation Aloha by gathering, packaging, and delivering of relief supplies to the earthquake victims in Kobe, Japan.

MAR 1995 The 199th Fighter Squadron, HIANG assisted in the rescue of three civilians who ditched a twin-engine aircraft in the ocean. F-15s rendezvoused with the aircraft, marking its location and directed the Coast Guard rescue team to the downed aircraft.

JUL – AUG 1995 The 201st Combat Communications Group, HIANG responded to a humanitarian mission, providing tactical communications in support Joint Task Force Operation Prompt Return on Wake Island.

Learn More

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

12 JUL 1995 154th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

14 OCT 1995 – 1999 The 203rd Air Refueling Squadron, HIANG was deployed to refuel NATO aircraft patrolling the airspace over Bosnia-Herzegovina and later striking Serb targets in and around Kosovo. 297th Air Traffic Control Squadron, HIANG deployed air traffic controllers, radar approach and maintenance personnel assisted with the movement of forces.

21 OCT – 4 DEC 1995 Guardsmen of the 154th Maintenance Squadron, Aircraft Generation Squadron, and 199th Fighter Squadron, HIANG deployed for Operation Cornet Nighthawk. With F-15 aircraft in Panama, they intercepted and identified unknown aircraft suspected of smuggling illegal drugs.

HIANG 50th

04 NOV 1996 The Hawaiʻi Air National Guard was formed 50 years ago.

05 – 17 NOV 1996 After parts of Oahu were de­clared a disaster area due to rainstorms that produced the worst flooding on Oahu in 10 years. The Hawaiʻi National Guard worked to remove over 1.6 million pounds of debris.

16 AUG 1997 1st Battalion, 298th Multi-Functional Training Regiment, HIARNG was federally recognized.

16 AUG 1997 2nd Battalion, 298th Multi-Functional Training Regiment, HIARNG was federally recognized.

20 JAN 1997 The Na Koa Crime Watch program was introduced. Volunteer Guardsmen enhance the County Police Department’s Neighborhood Security Watch and Community Policing Units in supporting civilian law enforcement efforts in neighborhoods statewide.

DEC 1997 The 204th Airlift Squadron and the 203rd Air Refueling Squadron, HIANG deployed to Guam following Typhoon Paka with emergency supplies and relief workers.

16 – 27 FEB & 14 – 16 MAR 1998 Hawaiʻi Army National Guard helicopters joined firefighting crews to help control the spread of the brushfires on the Big Island.

AUG 1998 The Hawaiʻi Army National Guard deployed two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters and three CH-470 Chinook helicopters to assist in fighting a massive brushfire on Molokai. Over three days, the helicopters completed 399 water drops, totaling more than 570,000 gallons of water, to contain the fire.

NOV 1998 A KC-135R and Guardsmen were deployed to Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska to support Operation Phoenix Scorpion when political and military tensions built up in Southwest Asia. Read about it on page 19 of the 1999 Annual Report and on page 1 & 2 of the 1998 Winter Pūpūkahi

HIARNG Logo

06 MAR 1999 The Medical Readiness Detachment, HIARNG received federal recognition, as Detachment 4, Headquarters State Area Command.

JUN 1999 After years of preparation, the 29th Infantry Brigade, HIARNG successfully completed its rotation to the Joint Readiness Training Center. This validated the Brigade’s ability to perform its federal mission to the Army’s highest standards with more than 2,000 soldiers participating.

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2000-2009

28 OCT – 2 NOV 2000 The Big Island had heavy rains and flooding, which caused widespread damage. The Hawaiʻi National Guard supplied Guardsmen, equipment and logistics support for cleanup, disaster recovery center operations, and community outreach activities.

NOV 2000 The Hawaiʻi Air National Guard flew F-15 Eagle fighter jets over the southern no-fly zone of Iraq during operation Southern Watch.

11 SEP 200110 MAY 2002 The Hawaiʻi National Guard sprang into action to protect the U.S. Hawaiʻi Air National Guard F-15s safely escort all remaining airliners into Honolulu and Kona International Airports. Shortly after Guardsmen began security duty at airports around Hawaiʻi.

The War in Afghanistan started Oct. 7, 2001.

MAR 2002 – MAY 2003 More than 900 Guardsmen were placed on active duty for Operations Enduring Freedom and Noble Eagle. Airmen from the 154th Wing, HIANG were activated to support an aerial “air bridge” across the Pacific that refueled planes enroute to Afghanistan. The 291st Combat Communications Squadron, HIANG deployed to maintain and repair critical radio systems and UHF communications and the 154th Security Forces Squadron, HIANG provided force protection and base security.

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02 JUN 2002 The 297th Engineer Detachment, HIARNG was federally recognized.

The Iraq War started March 20, 2003.

MAR 2003 Hawaiʻi Air National Guard personnel deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, contributing to air traffic control, base security, and combat communications.

18 JUN 2003 The Recruiting and Retention Battalion, HIARNG was federally recognized as the Recruiting and Retention Command.

25 JUL 2003 The 154th Maintenance Operations Flight, HIANG was federally recognized.

31 OCT 2004 A constant downpour dumped rain and mud poured into the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa damaging more than 30 buildings on campus. The Hawaiʻi National Guard sent in teams to make preliminary damages estimates and help clean up the hardest hit areas.

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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

NOV 2004 The 204th Airlift Squadron, HIANG answered a request for volunteers to transport Americans, wounded in the battles abroad, from Washington, D.C., to their homes along the East Coast in time for the holiday season. During the 11-day trip, over 27 sorties were flown, flying over 55 hours. Read about it on page 17 in the 2005 Annual Report

DEC 2004 – JAN 2005 The 203rd Air Refueling Squadron, HIANG delivered personnel and supplies to the Tsunami ravaged region of South Asia.

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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

FEB 2005JAN 2006 The 29th Brigade Combat, HIARNG was activated in 2004 marking the largest call-up in Hawaiʻi’s history. After months of intensive training, the brigade deployed to Kuwait and Iraq in early 2005, where its units conducted security operations, supported reconstruction efforts, and trained Iraqi forces.

8 FEB 2006 The first of eight C-17 aircraft arrive as part of the first active duty and Air National Guard classic associate units.

MAR 2006 Heavy rains fell over Kauai for 42 days causing widespread flooding and the failure of a dam on Kauai that killed seven people. The Hawaiʻi National Guard assisted in disaster relief and recovery as well as delivered equipment to thousands along the island’s north shore.

SEP 2006 – SEP 2013 Hawaiʻi National Guard Soldiers and Airmen were sent to support Operation Jump Start on the Southwest border in Tucson, Ariz. The guardsmen were formed into entry identification teams, while the engineering company cut new roads, rebuilt fences and improved the drainage along the border.

OCT 2006 The Kiholo Bay Earthquake caused significant damage to homes, businesses, and to critical infrastructure on the Big Island and damage to the Piilani Highway. The 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry, HIARNG mobilized Soldiers throughout the island to aide in relief and recovery efforts.

HIANG 60th

04 NOV 2006 The Hawaiʻi Air National Guard was formed 60 years ago.

2007 – DEC 2013 Guardsmen provided security support for the continuing Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines mission. Their noncombat mission was to advise and assist the armed forces of the Republic of the Philippines defeat select terrorist organizations in the Philippines.

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28 MAR 2008 The 227th Brigade Engineer Battalion was constituted in the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard as the Special Troops Battalion, 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

AUG 2008 – AUG 2009 The 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, HIARNG deployed 1,700 soldiers to Iraq. Their mission included convoy security, force protection, and installation management across five bases in Kuwait, with over 1,000 soldiers regularly conducting high-risk escort operations as far as Mosul and Baghdad.

FEB 2008 Detachment 55, Operational Support Airlift Command, HIANG deployed to Djibouti for the CJTF–Horn of Africa mission. The eight-member C-26 team supported humanitarian efforts by transporting personnel and equipment.

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Operational Support Airlift Command to serve Horn of Africa mission

Army Guard fixed wing aircrew departs

By Sgt. 1st Class Stephen M. Lum
117th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

The Hawaii National Guard family bid aloha to the Soldiers of Detachment 55, Operational Support Airlift Command, in February, at Wheeler Army Airfield, as they left to support the global war on terrorism mission.

The eight-person team of C-26 Metroliner pilots and crew chiefs, lead by Chief Warrant Officer Charles Gustafson, left for Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa mission in the country of Djibouti.

The CJTF-HOA mission 1s to conduct unified action in the combined joint operations area of the Horn of Africa to prevent conflict, promote regional stability and protect Coalition interests in order to prevail against extremism.

The mission includes building schools, clinics and hospitals and through conducting medical, dental and veterinarian civil action programs (MEDCAP, DENCAP, VETCAP). The Hawaii aircrews will fly personnel and equipment to support these humanitarian missions.

Chief Warrant Officers Darryn Dela Vega, Harry Huber and Dean Kozel round out the pilot staff, while Sgt. 1st Class Daniel Monette and Sgt. Andrew Salvador will serve as the crew chiefs.

2007 November – 2008 March Pūpūkahi pp. 1

MAY 2008 The 154th Wing, HIANG airlifted emergency supplies following the devastating earthquake in Sichuan Province, China.

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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

02 NOV 2008 The 201st Air Operations Group, HIANG was federally recognized.

02 NOV 2008 The 201st Air Operations Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

02 NOV 2008 The 201st Air Mobility Operations Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

DEC 2008 Guardsmen helped residents at Disaster Assistance Recovery Centers and removed debris from stream beds to help prevent future flooding after torrential rains caused damage to property on Oahu’s north shore and Waianae coast.

20 SEP 2009 The 154th Force Support Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

30 SEP 2009 The earthquake and subsequent tsunami in American Samoa led to the Hawaiʻi National Guard assembling a plan for the response and recovery effort. This brought  humanitarian relief to American Samoa to alleviate suffering and mitigate hazards.

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2010-2019

JUL – SEP 2010 The first Hawaiʻi Air National Guard F-22 Raptors arrived at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and the last two F-15s in inventory depart.

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31 AUG 2010 The 1950th Contingency Contracting Team was constituted in the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard at Pearl City as the 1950th Support Detachment. 

MAR 2011 After the earthquake and tsunami, the Hawaiʻi Air National Guard helped in Operation Tomodachi to direct the air flow of aircraft and supplies to Japan and produced some of the first satellite imagery of the damaged nuclear power plant at Fukushima. Read about it on page 17 of the 2011 Annual Report

11 MAR 2011 Hawaiʻi was impacted by the tsunami caused by a magnitude 9.0 earthquake from Japan. The Hawaiʻi National Guard secured facilities and rendered support to save lives and prevent property damage.

NOV 2011 The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, the highest level gathering of its kind ever in Hawaiʻi was supported by the Hawaiʻi National Guard. Guardsmen ensured a secure summit by providing transportation, security, logistics, public affairs, command and control, and other support.

The Iraq War ended Dec. 15, 2011.

APR 2013 After years of planning and fielding of the F-22 Raptor fighter aircraft, the 199th and 19th Fighter Squadrons, HIANG reached full operational capability.

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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

08 AUG 2014 After Hurricane Iselle slammed into Big Island, the Hawaiʻi National Guard assisted the County in welfare checks, damage assessments, security, and debris clearance.

OCT 2014 A months-long lava flow occurred in the lower Puna district during which the Hawaiʻi National Guard coordinated roving security patrols throughout the impacted communities and provided imagery to civil authorities to support the Puna Lava Flow contingency.

31 JAN 2015 The 201st Intelligence Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

25 APR – MAY 2015 After an earthquake hit Nepal the 204th Airlift Squadron, HIANG flew several missions of disaster relief. The 109th Air Operations Group, HIANG sent a team to provide life-saving humanitarian assistance/disaster relief to victims.

31 MAY – 8 JUN 2015 Exercise Vigilant Guard / Makani Pahili, the largest natural disaster exercise in Hawaiʻi National Guard history was held.

14 JUL 2015 A Hawaiʻi Air National Guard C-17 Globemaster III crew evacuated over 125 Department of Defense personnel from Wake Island as Typhoon Halola approached.

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Total Force Effort Ensures Successful Typhoon Evacuation

154th Wing Public Affairs
Story by Senior Airman Orlando Corpuz

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii – A C-17 Globemaster III cargo plane and crew from the Hawaii Air National Guard evacuated more than 125 Department of Defense members from Wake Island, July 14, 2015.

The evacuation was executed as Typhoon Halola, which at the time was packing sustained winds in excess of 100-mph had a forecasted track that took it dangerously close to the isolated atoll located roughly 2,300 miles west of the Hawaiian Islands.

Wake Island functions as a divert airfield or primary stopping point for cross-Pacific military flights. At any one time, more than 100 DoD personnel are on station to maintain and operate the airfield there.

It was planned to be a routine training day with roughly three hours of flying time around the Hawaiian Islands for the all guard crew who reported for duty that morning. Upon learning of the real world assignment, the crew sprang into action.

“We train for the unexpected. When leadership tasked us with the emergency evacuation of Wake Island, so many things go through your mind. Are we ready for this mission? What dangers should we be aware of?” said aircraft commander, Capt. Skip Saito with the 204th Airlift Squadron.

“All questions aside, we were confident and ready to execute anything that was brought to us. That is what we train for.”

The crew of five took off from Honolulu at 11am and roughly four and a half hours later landed on Wake Island. With engines still running, Wake Island personnel and their personal effects were loaded onto the C-17. The C-17 was airborne just over one hour after landing, this time with a flight plan taking to Andersen Air Force Base in Guam, where the evacuees would remain until the storm passed.

“As a Hawaii Air National Guard crew we are here for relief and humanitarian support in the event natural disaster hits the state of Hawaii. Expanding our support to the territories of the United States of America shows that we are not limited in what we do” said Saito.

An evacuation mission such as this highlights Pacific Air Force’s flexibility to generate air response quickly across the theater, a key component to air power.

“This was an exceptional team effort utilizing guard, active, and civilian members of our Air Force to safeguard life and property, said Air Force Col. Gregory Woodrow, vice-commander of the 154th Wing, Hawaii Air National Guard. “We are all extremely proud of the professionalism and can do attitudes displayed by all.”

2015 July Pūpūkahi pp. 1

SEP 2015 – APR 2016 199th Fighter Squadron, HIANG deployed F-22 Raptors for Operation Inherent Resolve. Supported by over 200 personnel from the 154th and 15th Wings, the Hawaiian Raptors conducted precision strikes on high-value ISIS targets across Iraq and Syria.

APR 2016 Soldiers from the 227th Brigade Engineering Battalion, HIARNG were activated to assist Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense in fighting dengue fever. Their mission focused on removing bulk tire sites that harbor mosquitoes, working closely with Vector Control Teams who sprayed and educated residents.

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Hawaii NG assists in fight against Dengue

Story by Major Jeff Hickman, Hawaii National Guard

Eleven soldiers from the Hilo-based 227th Brigade Engineering Battalion’s Heavy Equipment team were placed on State Active Duty to assist the Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency in mid-April with dengue fever mitigation.

“The mission was very labor intensive,” said Spec. Sean Davis, 227th BEB. “We had a lot fun working, but definitely exhausted after the long days. We worked safe, but all of us enjoyed accomplishing as much as possible every day.”

The HING assisted the HCCDA and state emergency managers mitigate and reduce bulk tire sites throughout the island that harbor mosquitoes which carry and transmit dengue fever.

“The HCCDA was very helpful, open and accommodating,” said Second Lt. Ian Cevallos, Officer-in-Charge of mitigation team. “They were with us every step of the way which was an asset to the mission.”

County Treatment and Spray Vector Control Teams educated homeowners and sprayed around buildings. They identified specific locations where they would need heavy equipment and manpower to assist in the process. The HING debris clearance/removal teams allowed the Vector Control Teams to do a more effective treatment.

Homeowners met the HING members when they could, and they showed the troops nothing but appreciation and thankfulness.

The mitigation team called themselves “Team Uhaheke.” Uhaheke were the Hawaiian farmers and fishermen who filled the ranks in the armies to ensure their leader won the battle. It is very similar to the National Guard, as it is partially a “part-time” force. It is the motto of B Company, 227th Brigade Engineer Battalion, the unit who supplied 11 of the 12 Soldiers. Team Uhaheke leader, Second Lt. Cevallos, is from the 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry.

“The entire team was able to get valuable training on vehicles during a real-world mission, which I feel provides a sense of urgency that is sometimes missing during a training environment,” said Cevallos. “The team was exposed to different types of terrain, and areas of the Island that were difficult to maneuver large equipment and vehicles.”

The HING’s 30-day mission entailed the removal about 3,100 tires from 12 separate sites around Hawaii Island. The sizes of the tires varied from residential to tractor trailer and heavy equipment tires. Many were removed by hand and some, by large equipment.

“Our team consisted of combat engineers and horizontal construction engineers,” said Davis. “We worked as a manual labor ground crew with our experienced heavy equipment drivers taking shifts on our high mobility engineer excavator and front loader equipment. One day, we were moving over 1,500 small car and truck tires from a property on a lava field in south Kona. We would carry the tires from the lava field to any area easily accessible for our equipment to pick up. Some properties had large tractor tires under debris, forcing us to be creative and use chains with our heavy equipment for removal.”

Many members of Team Uhaheke worked previous State Active Duty missions.

“I volunteered for the Dengue mitigation mission because I enjoy helping the community,” said Sgt. Kevin Antolin, 227th BEB. “I also worked during the lava flow mission (October 2014) patrolling the streets of Pahoa and Kalapana.”

All of Team Uhaheke volunteered for the mitigation mission.

“I felt great putting in effort to help mitigate the dengue fever issues facing the Hawaii community,” said. Davis. “All of us on the mission have friends and family that we worry about being susceptible to illness. One of great things about being in the National Guard is getting the opportunity to give back to our local community.” The County appreciated the efforts of Team Uhaheke and the community saw the benefits as each tire was being hauled away. Each soldier knew the risk and still stepped up to help.

“All of the soldiers volunteered to work in areas that were designated as high risk for Dengue Fever exposure,” said Cevallos. “They all new that there was potential that they could catch dengue but they wanted to help regardless. I am very proud of the team because every individual that volunteered for this mission did so because they wanted get rid of dengue on the island. I am also proud of the team because they worked hard every day, stayed motivated and did not complain even when the work was difficult the weather unpredictable and the hours long.”

2016 May Pupukahi pp. 3 & 6

21 – 27 SEP 2016 Hawaiʻi National Guard personnel from Maui teamed up to clear flood debris from the Wailuku River after heavy rains caused flash flooding and damage to homes and infrastructure. The Guardsmen volunteered for state active duty to assist in removing debris and prevent further flooding risks, they cleared 73 truckloads of debris, totaling over 328 tons.

01 – 10 SEP 2017 A C-17 Globemaster III aircraft and 16 Airmen from the 204th Airlift Squadron, HIANG supported Hurricane Harvey and Irma relief missions. The crew conducted 19 missions to various locations across the U.S. and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

3 MAY – 12 AUG 2018 The Kīlauea volcanic eruption led to lava destroying over 700 homes. The Hawaiʻi National Guard provided support in the form of flyover opportunities, monitoring dangerous gas emissions from lava flows, manning security checkpoints, building emergency housing, and conducting search-and-rescue missions.

AUG 2018 Hurricane Lane was the most powerful storm to threaten Hawaiʻi since Hurricane Iniki, it caused record-breaking rain across the state. The resulting floods and landslides caused extensive damage with the Hawaiʻi National Guard assisting in relief efforts.

01 MAR 2019 The 298th Air Defense Group, HIANG was federally recognized.

01 MAR 2019 The 298th Support Squadron, HIANG was federally recognized.

01 MAR 2019 The 298th Support Squadron OL-AA, HIANG was federally recognized.

JUN 2019 The 1st Battalion, 487th Field Artillery Regiment, HIARNG made history as the first field artillery unit assigned to the Counter-Rocket, Artillery, and Mortar (C-RAM) protection mission, traditionally handled by air defense artillery units. The C-RAM system is designed to detect and destroy incoming rocket, artillery, and mortar threats, and includes the well-known Phalanx Weapon System.

JUL 2019 – MAR 2020 Hawai‘i National Guard supported law enforcement by manning a checkpoint on Mauna Kea Access Road as part of Operation Anole Inoa. Read about it on page 12 and 15 of the 2020 Annual Report.

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2020-Present

06 APR 202015 MAR 2022 The Hawai‘i National Guard created a Joint Task Force in support of the State’s efforts against COVID-19. Some of the missions included airport screening with the Department of Transportation, COVID-19 mapping with the Department of Health, and personal protective equipment procurement and logistical support.

The War in Afghanistan ended Aug. 30, 2021.

DEC 2020 – JAN 2021 Hawaiʻi Air National Guard Airmen deployed to Washington, D.C., to provide 24/7 logistical and transportation support for the Presidential Inauguration and the broader Operation Capitol Response. While 200 Soldiers from the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard were deployed as well to support security efforts.

27 NOV – 13 DEC 2022 Mauna Loa erupted for the first time in 38 years, and the Hawai‘i National Guard assisted with traffic control and security along a designated viewing route, which saw over 20,000 vehicles.

18 – 24 DEC 2022 After a tragic Hawai‘i Life Flight accident in December, Medical Evacuation crews from the 189th and 3-126th Aviation Regiments, HIARNG flew 11 emergency missions, transporting critical patients from neighbor islands to O‘ahu saving 14 lives.

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Governor honors HIARNG flight crews’ life saving efforts

State of Hawai‘i, Department of Defense, Public Affairs Office | Story by Bernhard Lashleyleidner

Wahiawa, Hawaii – Governor Josh Green, M.D. and Hawaii Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Kenneth Hara recognized military and civilian paramedics on February 4, 2023, for assisting with life-saving efforts last December.

Soldiers from Company G, Detachment 1, 189th Aviation Regiment and Company G, Detachment 1, 3-126 Aviation Regiment and Medical Evacuation Squadron (MEDEVAC) assisted civilian flight paramedics and flight nurses from Hawaii Life Flight (HLF) during an unexpected shortage of staff and equipment, following a tragic loss of a HLF crew and plane in December of last year.

The aviation accident prompted an administrative grounding and safety standdown for HLF. Governor Green then activated Hawaii Army National Guard (HIARNG) Soldiers to assist with the support mission.

“I am really thankful that Governor Green took the time, on a weekend, to honor and thank the MEDEVAC Soldiers that supported with critical care air transport,” said Hara. He also stated how proud he was of each Soldier from the MEDEVAC detachments for their commitment and willingness to protect Hawai‘i.

The weeklong mission, which ended on Christmas Eve, involved transferring patients from Kauai, Molokai, and Hawaii Island to Queen’s Medical Center on Oahu. Queen’s Medical Center is the state’s only Level 1 trauma hospital, requiring many neighborisland residents to travel to O`ahu for lifesaving care.

“Maintaining uninterrupted aerial medical evacuation is critical to the overall health of our state and island communities,” said Capt. John Worthington Jr., commander of the Detachment 1, Company G, 3-126 Aviation Regiment, HIARNG. “Flight and medical training to support these missions never end, and the call to support can never be predicted.”

Worthington said being acknowledged by the state’s top officials was a credit to the HIARNG and the entire Army aviation community, along with the HLF paramedics, flight nurses, and aviation ground personnel.

“The civilian ground team performed the first patient assessment, stabilization, and transfer of patients with life-threatening illnesses,” said Worthington.

Flight crews performed 11 sorties in thirty hours over the course of seven days, as civilian paramedics treated injured patients aboard the HH-60 Blackhawk air ambulance helicopter and saved 14 lives.

Worthington said the HIARNG MEDEVAC unit was established in 2016.

“This is the first time in HIARNG history, military and civilian flight paramedics joined forces to treat patients in the back of a HH-60 Blackhawk helicopter,” said Worthington. “Our crews were responsible for flying patients to the next level care facilities.”

Hawaii’s unique geographical landscape requires thousands of patients to fly to Oahu to receive critical and specialized care, and units like the 189th Aviation Regiment, Detachment 1, Company G, 3-126 Aviation Regiment and the MEDEVAC squadron are prepared to serve in emergency roles when needed.

Hara said they’ve proven that the National Guard is Always Ready, Always There.

2023 Spring Pūpūkahi pp. 6

AUG 2023 The Hawai’i National Guard deployed over 1,100 personnel to support Maui’s response to the wildfires, providing search and recovery, water distribution, and security.

03 FEB 2024 The 50th Quartermaster Detachment, HIARNG was activated.

JUN 2024 The 204th Airlift Squadron, HIANG provided the sole long-range contingency search and rescue capability for the first crewed launch of the Boeing Starliner space capsule.

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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

Documents from the

Hawaiʻi National Guard Medal of Honor Recipients

Hawaiʻi National Guard Adjutant Generals

Hawaiʻi National Guard Senior Enlisted Leaders

Hawaiʻi National Guard Deputy Adjutant Generals

Hawaiʻi National Guard Honor Roll

Hawaii National Guardsmen who were Prisoners of War

Hawaiʻi National Guardman Who Served in Public Office

Hawaiʻi National Guardman Who Were Olympians

Hawaiʻi National Guard Annual Training – Summer Camp – Annual Encampments

Hawaiʻi National Guard National Rifle Matches

Statement on Harmful Content in Historical Collection