Launa ‘ole Awards
The Hawaii Air National Guard’s Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of Hawaii Air National Guard (HIANG) Airmen. Launa ‘ole means “beyond comparison” or “without peer.”
2023
March 03, 2024
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2023
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | SRA MITCHELL WAIKIKI of 201 IS | A1C ROBIN DIANA of 154 SFS |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | TSGT CHRISTOPHER BRUN of 292 CBCS | TSGT KALEOLANI SOUZA of 298 SPTS |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | MSGT KELLY KRUEGER of 169 ADS | MSGT NATHANIEL CHRISTY of 199 WF |
Company Grade Officer of Year | CAPT TINA KANATUS of 154 FSS | 2ND LT BENJAMIN SUISO of 154 SFS |
Field Grade Officer of Year | MAJ MICHAEL HANK of 154 OSS | MAJ ALLISON DELOS SANTOS of 154 SFS |
First Sergeant of the Year | MSGT BRANDON OZAKI of 154 CES |
Service Team Award | HIANG ROYAL GUARD |
Winning Team Award | 298 SPTS KOKE’E AF STATION TEAM |
Outstanding Unit Award | 203 ARS |
Kaleo Nui (Spirit) Award | 154 MDG |
Honor Guard of the Year | TSGT REID SUZUKI of 154 CPTF |
Read about the awards in Kukailimoku publication on page 12
2022
March 05, 2023
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2022
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | SRA ALEC AUZ of 154 OSS | A1C TAVAN LORENZO of 154 MXS |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | TSGT LAWRENCE HWANG of 298 SS | SSGT MARCMASUNO of 298 SS |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | SMSGT BRANDON SARCEDA of 201 AOG | MSGT KEN HAYASHI of 169 ADS |
Company Grade Officer of Year | CAPT ROBERT OTSUBO of 154 AMXS | 1ST LT SHELDON LEE of 169 ADS |
Field Grade Officer of Year | MAJ DANIEL DUNCAN of 199 FS | MAJ BRITTAIN CALDWELL |
First Sergeant of the Year | MSGT KATELYN DAVIS of 154 MSG |
Service Team Award | AIRFIELD MANAGEMENT TEAM |
Winning Team Award | COMMERCIAL CREW PROGRAM 204 AS |
Outstanding Unit Award | 154 OSS |
Kaleo Nui (Spirit) Award | 154 OG |
Honor Guard of the Year | MAJ NORMAN KALANI GUILLERMO of 169 ADS |
Read about the awards in Kukailimoku publication on page 16
2021
February 2022
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2021
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | SRA KEILAH KANAHELE of 169 ADS | SRA KASEY LAFITAGA-STEVENS of 201 COS |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | TSGT KIMO NAKATA of 154 AMXS | TSGT ERIN MELLO of 201 IS |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | SMSGT MYSTY PARK of 201 COS | MSGT KATELYN DAVIS of 201 AMOS |
Company Grade Officer of Year | MAJ CHARLES MORRIS of 199 FS | CAPT DAVID CHRISTOPHERSON of 204 AS |
Field Grade Officer of Year | MAJ BRANDON CHANG of 204 AS | MAJ MYLES KIMURA of 203 ARS |
First Sergeant of the Year | MSGT MOSES RANDLES of 169 ADS |
Service Team Award | 154 SFS |
Winning Team Award | 154 MSG / 291CBCS / 292CBCS |
Outstanding Unit Award | 199 FS |
Kaleo Nui (Spirit) Award | 298 ADG |
Honor Guard of the Year | SMSGT RUSSELL MESINAS of 154 AMXS |
Read about the awards in Kukailimoku publication on page 36
Read about the awards in Pupukahi publication on page 8
2020
February 21, 2021
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2020
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | SRA AARON MORIYAMA of 154 OSS | SRA DANIELLE JORDAN DEMELLO of 154 MDG DET 1 |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | TSGT SHANE WILLIAMS of 203 ARS | TSGT MICHAEL HIGUCHI of 298 SS |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | MSGT DEREK WHEELER of 203 ARS | MSGT HARLASUN KANG of 204 AS |
Company Grade Officer of Year | CAPT SHAUN KAWAKAMI of 154 FSS | CAPT BRUCE YAMAMOTO of 154 MDG DET 1 |
Field Grade Officer of Year | MAJ BRENT HOWARD of 201 COS | MAJ MICHAEL NAMOCOT of 204 AS |
First Sergeant of the Year | MSGT KEHAULANI LOBETOS of 154 MDG |
Service Team Award | HIANG HONOR GUARD TEAM |
Winning Team Award | HAWAIIAN RAPTOR SCHEDULING TEAM |
Outstanding Unit Award | 204 AS |
Kaleo Nui (Spirit) Award | 298 ADG |
Read about the awards in Kukailimoku publication on page 10
2019
February 09, 2020
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2019
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | SRA NATHAN BARBOSA of 154 CES | SRA NICHOLAS BAKOS of 292 CBCS |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | TSGT SHARON PASION of HQ HIANG | SSGT JASON CAMARILLO of 169 ADS |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | SMSGT ANGEL UMIAMAKA of 298 SS | MSGT GARRETT NISHIDA of 292 CBCS |
Company Grade Officer of Year | CAPT EVAN KUROSU of 204 AS | CAPT JACK MUNECHIKA |
Field Grade Officer of Year | MAJ BRITTON KOMINE of 204 AS | MAJ KOANI LAU of 203 ARS |
First Sergeant of the Year | SMSGT DANIEL HIYAMA of 154 WG |
Service Team Award | 154 FSS |
Winning Team Award | HQ HIANG RECRUITING TEAM |
Outstanding Unit Award | 199 FS |
Kaleo Nui (Spirit) Award | 154 MDG |
Read about the awards in Kukailimoku publication on page 12
Read about the awards in Pupukahi publication on page 9
2018
February 10, 2019
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2018
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | SRA REID SUZUKI of 154 CF | A1C NOEL TADEO of 169 ADS |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | TSGT MICHAEL GUZMAN of 201 COS | SSGT TARA MACION of 201 IS |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | SMSGT ALFRED BRUNN of 154 CS | MSGT JAKE ROSS of 154 CS |
Company Grade Officer of Year | 1ST LT SY CULLEN of 169 ADS | CAPT JOSEPH KINA of 204 AS |
Field Grade Officer of Year | MAJ GLEN HAYASE of 201 AOG | LT COL BLYTHEJEANNE ITOMAN of 204 AS |
First Sergeant of the Year | MSGT JOHN KIM of 201 AOG |
Service Team Award | 154 MOF |
Winning Team Award | 297 ATCS |
Outstanding Unit Award | 154 CS |
Kaleo Nui (Spirit) Award | 154 MDG |
Read about the awards in Kukailimoku publication on page 16
2017
February 11, 2018
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2017
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | A1C JAKE NAKAMURA of 169ADS | SRA ROBERT BACHSTEIN of 154 AMXS |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | TSGT RIZAL DACQUIG of 154 SFS | SSGT RANDY FERRIMAN of 201 IS |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | MSGT JEFFREY YOKONO of 154 MOF | MSGT BRANDON SARCEDA of 204AS |
Company Grade Officer of Year | CAPT JOSHUA ISHIKI of 154WG | CAPT COLLIN ADACHI of 292 CCS |
Field Grade Officer of Year | MAJ MARIKO BOONE of 154 CS | MAJ JONATHAN HOUGH of 199 FS |
First Sergeant of the Year | MSGT DANIEL HIYAMA |
Service Team Award | 154 FSS JUNIOR ENLISTED COUNCIL |
Winning Team Award | 201 COMBAT OPERATIONS SQ COMMUNICATIONS TEAM |
Outstanding Unit Award | 203 ARS |
2016
February 12, 2017
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2016
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | SRA CYNTHIA RUBIO-SEGOVIA of 154 OSS | SSGT RANDY FERRIMAN of 201 IS |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | TSGT KEITH KAMAKELE-CORDEIRO of 169 ADS | TSGT MELIKA SOUZA of 201 AOG |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | MSGT GREG RAMOS of 154 LRS | MSGT LEE UYEDA of 154 LRS |
Company Grade Officer of Year | CAPT NICHOLAS DANIELSON of 199 FS | 1ST LT ROBIN CASABAR of 154 MXS |
Field Grade Officer of Year | MAJ KEVIN HORTON of 199 FS |
Winning Team Award | HQ 154 MDG DET 1 |
Outstanding Unit Award | 199 FS |
Honor Guard of the Year | CAPT NORMAN KALANI GUILLERMO of 169 ADS |
Read about the awards in Kukailimoku publication on page 8
2015
April 03, 2016
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2015
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | SRA ERIC BROWN of 291 CBCS | SRA MARCO MENDEZ of 154 FSS |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | TSGT SHARON PASION of HQ HIANG | TSGT VISCONTI CHRISTMAN of 109 AOG |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | SMSGT JERMAINE SPEED of 201 IS | |
Company Grade Officer of Year | 1ST LT GORDON KAI of 169 ADS | CAPT TIMOTHY HIURA of 154 MDG |
Field Grade Officer of Year | MAJ IVAN AGUIRRE of 154 CES | MAJ KAIALII KAHELE of 109 AOG |
First Sergeant of the Year | MSGT LANE MARTIN of 297 ATCS |
Service Team Award | 154 WG SAPR Team |
Winning Team Award | C-17 AMXS Production Team |
Outstanding Unit Award | 169 ADS |
Honor Guard of the Year | MSGT LAWRENCE LEE of 201 COS |
Read about the awards in Kukailimoku publication on page 6
2014
March 08, 2015
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2014
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | SRA MARIA HAKAU of 154 FSS | SRA KENNETH HAYASHI of 201 IS |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | TSGT BLESMAY BELMONTE of 199 FS | TSGT AMY GERARD of 154 MDG |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | MSGT RICHARD PACHECO of 292 CBCS | MSGT CHRISTOPHER HOX of 201 AMOS |
Company Grade Officer of Year | CAPT KRISTIN WOLFFORD of 150 AOS | CAPT KIMBERLY GUSHIKUMA of 201 COS |
Field Grade Officer of Year | MAJ FRANCIS SHEN | LT COL WILLIAM TAKESHIMA of 199 FS |
First Sergeant of the Year | MSGT JEFFREY ROMUALDO of 154 MDG |
Outstanding Unit Award | 204 AS |
Honor Guard of the Year | MSGT DARRELL BACTAD of 154 LRS |
2013
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2013
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | SRA EDWARD SIAOSI of 154 OSS | SRA KEN HAYASHI of 201 IS |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | TSGT MELISSA YORK of 109 AOG | TSGT SHANE GLOOR of 154 SFS |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | MSGT FRED GEBAUER of 109 AOG | MSGT NICHOLAS MARZAN of 154 FSS |
Company Grade Officer of Year | 1ST LT JONATHAN LAURION of 201 IS | CAPT KIMBERLY VAZQUEZ of 201 COS |
Field Grade Officer of Year | MAJ MATTHEW MASUYAMA of 154 FSS | MAJ FRANCIS SHEN of 109 AOG |
First Sergeant of the Year | MSGT JOHN KIM of 109 AOG |
Service Team Award | AIRMAN COMMITTED TO COMMUNITY EXCELLENCE TEAM |
Winning Team Award | TFI WG PLANNING CELL |
Outstanding Unit Award | 203 ARS |
Honor Guard of the Year | TSGT MARK CRABBE of 204 AS |
2012
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2012
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | SRA TARA BROAD of 154 CES | A1C KYLE BRISLAN 109 AOG |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | TSGT JASON LABRA of 109 AOG | SSGT CHRISTOPHER ULU of 154 SFS |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | MSGT SANDRA SERRANO of 201 IS | MSGT CLIFFORD RAMSON of 154 SFS |
Company Grade Officer of Year | CAPT LARIN WONG of 109 AOG | 1ST LT JONATHAN LAURION of 201 IS |
Field Grade Officer of Year | MAJ CYRUS LUNG of 154 CES | MAJ JAMES LOWE of HQ WG |
First Sergeant of the Year | MSGT ANTHONY COLON of 154 MSG |
Service Team Award | 154 CF |
Outstanding Unit Award | 154 LRS |
Honor Guard of the Year | MSGT DARRELL BACTAD of 154 LRS |
2011
April 19, 2012
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2011
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | SRA UYEN TRAN of 154 LRS | A1C MOSE MATILA of 154 SFS |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | TSGT YVONNE REYES of 154 AMXS | SSGT MELISSA SOUZA of 201 IS |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | MSGT RYAN SCHREINER of 154 SFS | MSGT JOHN KIM of 109 AOG |
Company Grade Officer of Year | ||
Field Grade Officer of Year | MAJ TROY CULLEN of 154 WG | LT COL KYLE MITSUMORI of 109 AOG |
First Sergeant of the Year | SMSGT KRISTEN STANLEY of 154 MXS |
Service Team Award | 154 SFS |
Winning Team Award | LOW OBSERVABLE STRUCTURAL |
Outstanding Unit Award | 109 AOG |
Honor Guard of the Year | TSGT MARCUS DELLASALA of 201 IS |
Read about the awards in Kukailimoku publication on page 10
2010
Launa ‘ole recognizes the outstanding performance of HIANG Airmen in 2010
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | SRA EVAN KUROSU of 154 AMXS | SRA MARYROCHELLE SMALL of 154 LRS |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | SSGT FRED OKURA 154 LRS | SSGT JEREMY POWELL of 201 IS |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | MSGT RICARDO NAMOCA of 154 SFS | MSGT DAWN TAFAOA 154 SFS |
Company Grade Officer of Year | 1ST LT RICHARD CLINE of 154 LRS | CAPT MATTHEW MASUYAMA of 154 FSS |
Field Grade Officer of Year | LT COL KYLE YANAGISAWA of 150 AOS | MAJ ERIK MARS of 203 ARS |
First Sergeant of the Year | MSGT MARCUS DELLASALA of 201 IS |
Service Team Award | MEDICAL INNOVATIVE READINESS TEAM |
Outstanding Unit Award | 203 ARS |
Honor Guard of the Year | TSGT RUSSELL MESINAS of 154 AMXS |
2008
2007
Hawaii Air National Guard Launa Ole awards
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | Senior Airman Pulepule M. Lauofo, 154th Operations Flight | Senior Airman Ryan W.H. Yung, 154th Operations Group |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | Tech. Sgt. Richard W. Costa Jr., 154th Mission Support Flight | Staff Sgt. Rita R. Miller, 291st Combat Communications Squadron |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | Master Sgt. Shawna LL. Gaskins, 154th Maintenance Squadron | Master Sgt. Peter K.Y. Kwok, 154th Maintenance Operations Flight |
Company Grade Officer of Year | 1st Lt. Jason N. Matsuoka, 154th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron | Capt. Brian K. Abrigo, HQ, HIANG |
Field Grade Officer of Year | Maj. Mark E. Ladtkow, 154th Operations Support Flight | Maj. Vern K. Sasaki, 154th Medical Group |
First Sergeant of the Year | Senior Master Sgt. Vernon J. Palomares, 154th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron |
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 8
2003
2004
2003 HIANG Recognition winners (Launa Ole)
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | Senior Airman Lanilio G. Baraoidan, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron | |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | ech. Sgt. Kurt H. Kawachi, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron | Staff Sgt. Leomer T. Domingo, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | Master Sgt. Colosse Eliapo Jr., HQ 154th Wing | Master Sgt. Gary A. Momohara, HQ 154th Wing |
Company Grade Officer of Year | Capt. Blane H. Viloria, 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron | |
Field Grade Officer of Year | Maj. Taison K. Tanaka, HQ 154th WG | Maj. Ryan T. Okahara, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron |
Service Team Award | 2003 Great Aloha Run Start Line Communications Team |
Outstanding Unit Award | 154th Medical Group, Col. Brett Wyrick, commander |
Winning Team Award | 154th Medical Group Executive Management Team |
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 8
2002
March 7, 2003
Launa Ole, Hawaii Air National Guard’s annual awards ceremony recognized both traditional, as well as fulltime airmen and outstanding units.
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | Senior Airman Makani E. Miller, a communications computer systems supervisor, 291st Combat Communications Squadron | Sara Murakami, an apprentice, 154th Operations Support Flight |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | Staff Sgt. James N. Nakagawa, an F-15 aircraft maintenance specialist, 154th Aircraft Generation Squadron | Tech. Sgt. James S. Welch (not able to attend the ceremony), an information assurance technician, 154th Communications Flight |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | Master Sgt. Randal T. Hiyane, a financial management and services technician, 154th Wing | Senior Master Sgt. Miles K. Moriyama is assigned as first sergeant, 154th Aircraft Generation Squadron |
Company Grade Officer of Year | Capt. Duke M. Ota Jr., chief of supply, 154th Logistics Squadron | 1st Lt. Zachary M. Chang, an aircraft maintenance officer, 154th Maintenance Squadron |
Field Grade Officer of Year | Maj. Taison K. Tanaka, a financial management officer, 154th Wing |
Service Team Award | HIANG Base Honor Guard which includes airmen from units from all islands |
Outstanding Unit Award | 154th Security Forces Squadron, Capt. Wayne J. Acosta, commander |
Winning Team Award | 154th Aircraft Generation Squadron drug-testing team |
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 7
2001
March 2002
Hawaii Air National Guard Launa Ole Awards
Full Time | Traditional | |
Airmen of the Year | Senior Airman Kristen M. Higgins, 154th Communications Flight, Senior Airman Jessica Y. Yokoyama, 154th Operations Support Flight | Senior Airman Lee M. Dela Cruz, 297th Air Traffic Control Squadron |
Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | Tech. Sgt. Dominador 0. Molina, 154th Aircraft Generation Squadron, Tech. Sgt. Kelly J. Wilkinson, 154th Logistics Squadron | |
Senior Non Commissioned Officer of the Year | Senior Master Sgt. Denise M. Jelinski-Hall, 297th Air Traffic Control Squadron | Senior Master Sgt. Richard K. Shoda, 154th Maintenance Squadron |
Company Grade Officer of Year | Capt Basil M. Badley, 154th Communications Flight | 2nd Lt. Robert H. Millmann, 154th Logistics Squadron |
Field Grade Officer of Year | Maj. Jan Sue Heverly, 154th Aircraft Generation Squadron |
Outstanding Unit Award | 154th Communications Flight, unit commander: Capt Basil M. Badley |
Winning Team Award | Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) Migration Team, 154th Communications Flight |
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 6
Annual Awards Banquet
2000
February 17, 2001
Leaders from Hawaii’s National Guard, State government and civilian employers joined nominees and guests at the annual Hawaii Air National Guard Awards Banquet
Outstanding Airman – Senior Airman Shari M. Sugai, an air traffic controller from the 297th Air Traffic Control Squadron.
Outstanding Noncommissioned Officer – Tech. Sgt. Thomas Chock, from the 154th Logistics Squadron
Outstanding Senior NCO – Master Sgt. Brian Tom, a member of the Headquarters, 154th Wing finance section
Outstanding Company Grade Officer – Capt. Christopher Faurot, a 199th Fighter Squadron pilot
Outstanding Field Grade Officer – Maj. Jeffrey T. Namihira, a pilot with the 199th Fighter Squadron
Outstanding Service Team – Noncommissioned Officer Academy Graduates Association, Chapter 18.
The Winning Team – 201st Combat Communications Group: Integrated Communications Access Package (ICAP) Conversion Team
Outstanding Unit – 154th Aircraft Generation Squadron
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 1
1999
2000
Hawaii Air Guard awards presented at yearly banquet
Field Grade Officer – Lt. Col. James A. Drake, 199th Fighter Squadron
Junior Officer – 1st Lt. Basil M. Badley, 154th Communication Flight
Senior Noncommissioned Officer – Master Sgt. Preston C. Nishie 169th Aircraft Control & Warning
Squadron Noncommissioned Officer – Tech. Sgt. Neil M. Uehara 297th Air Traffic Control Flight
Outstanding Airman – Senior Airman Anthony T. Ramirez 297th Air Traffic Control Flight
Outstanding Unit – 203rd Air Refueling Squadron
Winning Team Award – 154th Logistics Group
Service Team Award – 154th Aircraft Generation Squadron and 154th Logistics Squadron
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 8
1998
February 13, 1999
1999 Hawaii Air National Guard Awards Banquet Outrigger Prince Kuhio
Airman of the Year – Senior Airman Kathy K.H. Wai, 154th Aircraft Generations Squadron
Noncommissioned Officer of the Year – Tech Sgt. James Almedia Jr., 292nd Combat Communications Squadron, and Tech. Sgt. Darren R. Morris, 204th Airlift Squadron
Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year – Master Sgt. Scott E. Yerxa, 154th Aircraft Generations Squadron
Company Grade Officer of the Year – Capt. Duke M. Ota, 154th Logistics Squadron
Field Grade Officer of the Year – Maj. James T. Yuki, 204th Airlift Squadron
Outstanding Unit – 203rd Air Refueling Squadron
Outstanding Service – 154th Logistics Support Flight
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 3
1997
February 21, 1998
Outstanding Hawaii Air National Guard personnel and units were recognized at the annual award banquet
Airman of the year – Senior Airman Audra M. Sellers Joy from the 292nd Combat Communications Squadron
Noncommissioned officer of the year – Tech. Sgt. Robert J. Joy Jr. from the 154th Logistic Support Flight
Senior noncommissioned officer of the year – Senior Master Sgt. Gayle Y.H. Tom from the 169th Aircraft Control & Warning Squadron
Company grade officer of the year – Capt. Tracey J. Saiki from the Headquarters section of the 154th Wing
field grade officers of the year – Maj. Craig N. Ishizaki of the 297th Air Traffic Control Squadron and Maj. William S. Petti of the 154th Logistic Support Flight;
unit of the year – 204th Air Squadron
service unit of the year – 154th Wing/Comptroller Office
winning team award – Force Management Information Accessibility Team
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 8
1996
March 01, 1997
The HIANG held its annual awards banquet
Team Awards – Royal Guard and Scheduling Process Action Team
Safety Award – Maj. Ronald Han, 154th Logistics Squadron
Outstanding Airman of the Year – Senior Airman Zur Waki, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron
Outstanding NCO of the Year – Tech. Sgt. Bridget Komine, 154th Support Group
Outstanding Senior NCO of the Year – Master Sgt. Dan Kiyohiro, 154th Logistics Squadron
Outstanding Company Grade Officer(s) of the Year – Capt. Tamah-Lani Nakamoto, HQ HING; 2nd Lt. Basil Badley, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron
Outstanding Field Grade Officer of the Year – Maj. Norbert Luke, 169th Aircraft Control & Warning Squadron
Outstanding Unit of the Year – 291st Combat Communications Squadron and 203rd Air Refueling Squadron
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 5
1995
February 1996
Congratulations to the individuals and units who were honored at our annual awards banquet in February, as being the best in the HIANG:
Airman of the Year – Senior Airman Timothy L. Archer, 293rd Combat Communications Squadron
NCO of the Year – Tech. Sgt. Robert J. Santos, 154th Aircraft Generation Squadron
Senior NCO of the Year – Master Sgt. Colosse Elia po, 154th Wing
Company Grade Officer – Capt. Reynold T. Hioki, 297th Air Traffic Control Flight
Field Grade Officer – Maj. Maiy Ooka, 169th Air Control and Warning Squadron
Community Service Award – 150th Aircraft Control & Warning Squadron
Facilities Improvement – 169th Aircraft Control & W aming Squadron
Outstanding Unit Award – 292nd Combat Communications Squadron
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 8
1994
1994
Annual Hawaii Air Guard awards presented
Air Traffic Controller – Staff Sgt. Collin S. Sakuma, 297th Air Traffic Control Flight
Outstanding Fighter Pilot – Capt. Conal J. Brady III, 199th Fighter Squadron
Outstanding C-130 Pilot – Maj. Kevin D. Garcia, 204th Airlift Squadron
Outstanding Tanker Pilot – Maj. Darryll D.M. Wong, 203rd Air Refueling Squadron
George T. Miki Memorial Award – Maj. Dewey D.A. Arakawa, 169th Aircraft. Control and Warning Squadron
Individual Referral Award (Recruiting) – Staff Sgt. Donna N. Kim, 291st Combat Communication Squadron
Unit Referral Award (Recruiting) – Headquarters, 154th Group
Outstanding Medical Personnel – Maj. Richard E. Ando Jr., 154th Medical Squadron
Outstanding Training Manager – Master Sgt. Myles T. Shiroma, 291st Combat Communications Squadron
Outstanding Unit Career Advisor – Master Sgt. George J. Kawaguchi, 169th Aircraft. Control and Warning Squadron
Outstanding Enlisted Aircrew – Master Sgt. Stephen V. Cid, 203rdAir Refueling Squadron
Outstanding Navigator – Capt. Mervin H. Oyafuso, 203rd Air Refueling Squadron
Outstanding Maintenance – Staff Sgt. John T. Kikuyama, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron
Outstanding Operations – Staff Sgt. Laurie S. Bosque, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron
Outstanding Support – Staff Sgt. Joaddie A. Gionson, 154th Civil Engineering Squadron
Outstanding Airman – Senior Airman Cheron M. Canon, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron
Outstanding NCO – Tech. Sgt. Bill D. Cruz, 154th Maintenance Squadron
Outstanding Senior NCO – Senior.Master Sgt. Vincent A. Dacanay, 292ndCombat Communications Squadron
Outstanding HIANG Officer – 2nd Lt. Duke M. Ota Jr, 154th Resource Management Squadron
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 5
1993
November 20, 1993
The following Air Guard members received these awards at the annual Hawaii Air National Guard Awards Banquet
George T. Miki Memorial Award – Capt. Kevin K. Abe, 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (ACWS)
Outstanding Fighter Pilot Award – Capt. Stan W. Hong, 199th Fighter Squadron (FS)
Outstanding Air Traffic Controller – Tech. Sgt. Richard J. Sullivan, 297th Air Traffic Control Flight
Outstanding Recruiter of the Year – Tech. Sgt. Henry Languatan, 154th Mission Support Squadron (MSS)
Outstanding Unit Career Advisor – Tech. Sgt. James Y. Toyama, 199th FS
Outstanding Individual Referral Incentive – Senior Airman Joel A. Gushikuma, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron (CCSQ)
Outstanding Unit Referral – 154th MSS
Outstanding Maintenance Award for Enlisted Personnel – Staff Sgt. Craig F. Randa, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
Outstanding Medical Personnel – Tech. Sgt. Laura S. Masuda, 15th Tactical Hospital
Outstanding Operations Award for Enlisted Personnel – Staff Sgt. Dell-Fin J.Y.P. Saito, 292nd CCSQ
Outstanding Support Award for Enlisted Personnel – Master Sgt. Robert K. Davis, 154th Civil Engineering Squadron (CES)
Outstanding Enlisted Specialty Training Manager – Master Sgt. Debra A. Brownhill, 154th CES
Outstanding Airman of the Year – Senior Airman Jonathon A. Silva, 154th Security Police Flight
Outstanding NCO of the Year – Staff Sgt. James Almeida Jr., 292nd CCSQ
Outstanding Senior NCO of the Year – Chief Master Sgt. Melvin Kauahi, 150th ACWS
Outstanding Officer of the Year – Capt. Jeffrey T. Namihira, 199th FS
Outstanding HIANG Unit – 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 8
1992
November 20, 1992
The 1991 Hawaii Air National Guard (HIANG) Awards Banquet was held
The George T. Miki Memorial Trophy – LL Col. Gary Nitta, 150th Aircraft Control & Warning Squadron (ACWS)
Outstanding Fighter Pilot Award – Capt Craig Swaby, 199th Fighter Squadron (FS)
Outstanding Air Traffic Controller Award – Tech. Sgt Denise Jelinski-Hall, 297th Air Traffic Control Flight
Outstanding Unit Career Advisor Award – Tech. Sgt Mel Rapazo, 298th Air Traffic Control Flight
Outstanding Recruiter of the Year Award – Master Sgt Jun J. Arconado, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron (CCS)
Outstanding HIANG Medical Personnel Award – Staff Sgt Dana Harada, 154th Tactical Hospital
Outstanding HIANG Maintenance Award for Enlisted Personnel – Staff Sgt Marc Mendez, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (CAMS)
Outstanding HIANG Operation Award for Enlisted Personnel – Senior Mager Sgt William Crowell, 154th Aircraft Control Squadron, and Tech. Sgt George Andrade, 292nd CCS
Outstanding HIANG Support Award for Enlisted Personnel – Mager Sgt. Debra Brownhill, 154th Civil Engineering Squadron (CES), and Master Sgt Jerry Fme, 154th Mission Support Squadron (MSS)
Outstanding HIANG Airman Award – Senior Airman Cindy Engoring, 292nd CCS
Outstanding HIANG NCO Award – Staff Sgt Christina Luna, 154th Security Police Flight
Outstanding HIANG Senior NCO Award – Mager Sgt Clifford Ono, 154th CAMS
Outstanding HIANG Officer Award – U Col. Bruce Ellinwood, 199th FS
Outstanding HIANG Unit Award – 199th FS
Outstanding HIANG Individual Referral Incentives Award – Otief Master Sgt Walter Furuyama, 293nl CCS
Outstanding HIANG Unit Referral Award – 154th MSS
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 7
1991
November 15, 1991
More than 350 persons attended the Hawaii Air National Guard (HIANG) awards banquet
George T. Miki Memorial Trophy – Capt Scott Hoadley, 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron
Outstanding Fighter Pilot – Lt. Col. Edward Pickering, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron
Outstanding Air Traffic Controller – Tech. Sgt. Alejandre Quibilan, 298th Air Traffic Control Flight
Outstanding Recruiter – Tech. Sgt. Benjamin Ormita, 154th Mission Support Squadron
Outstanding Individual Referral – Senior Ainnan Lloyd Llaneza
Outstanding Unit Referral – 298th Air Traffic Control Flight
Outstanding Medical Personnel – Maj. Walton Auyong, 154th Tactical Hospital
Outstanding HIANG Maintenance Award for Enlisted Personnel – Tech. Sgt. Eric Wada, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
Outstanding HIANG Operations Award for Enlisted Personnel – Master Sgt. George Mori, 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron
Outstanding HIANG Support Award for Enlisted Personnel – Tech. Sgt. Dane Kuni, 154th Civil Engineering Squadron
Outstanding HIANG Ainnan – Ainnan 1st Class Carmelo Lopez, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
Outstanding HIANG Noncommissioned Officer – Staff Sgt. John Huey, 297th Air Traffic Control Flight
Outstanding HIANG Senior Noncommissioned Officer – Chief Master Sgt. Melvin Kauahi, 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron
Outstanding HIANG Officer – Maj. Stanley Ossennan, 154th Mission Support Squadron
Outstanding HIANG Unit – 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 10
1990
November 16, 1990
Outstanding Hawaii Air Guard officers and airmen were honored at the 1990 HIANG Awards Banquet
George T. Miki Memorial Trophy – Capt. Stacy A. Clowe. 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron
Outstanding Fighter Pilot Award – Capt. David W. Lilly. 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron
Outstanding Air Traffic Controller Award – Staff Sgt. John P. Huey. 297th Air Traffic Control Flight
Outstanding Oahu Recruiter of the Year Award – Tech. Sgt. Norman K.C. Hu, 154th Mission Support Squadron
Outstanding HIAG Maintenance Award for Enlisted Personnel – Master Sgt. Lester T. Matsushima, 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron
Outstanding HIANG Operations Award for Enlisted Personnel – Senior Master Sgt. Carl T . Nakamura , Headquarters, 201st Combat Communications Group
Outstanding HIANG Operations Award for Enlisted Personnel – Tech. Sgt. Mitchell Maeda, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron
Outstanding HIANG Support Award for Enlisted Personnel – Master Sgt. Don H. Miyamoto
Outstanding HIANG Airman – Senior Airman Brent T. Bonnell. 154th Security Police Flight
Outstanding HIANG NCO Award – Tech. Sgt. Anthony L. Kepaa, 154th Civil Engineering Squadron
Outstanding HIANG Senior NCO Award – Senior Master Sgt. John K.L. Wahinekapu, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
Outstanding HIANG Officer Award – Maj. Mary C.P. Ooka, 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron
Outstanding HIANG Unit Award – 154th Security Police Flight and 199th Weather Flight
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 5
1989
November 17, 1989
The Hawaii Air National Guard recognized the outstanding performances and contributions of its officers and airmen
Outstanding Officers – 1st Lt. Craig N. lshizaki, 297th Air Traffic Control Flight and 1st Lt.Margaret R. Miller, 154th Tactical Hospital.
Noncommissioned Officer – Master Sgt. Robert J. Finley, Headquarters, 201st Combat Communications Group, coordinated and directed the transportation of 300 personnel and 400 tons of equipment to and from the Republic of Korea for exercise Team Spirit 89.
Outstanding Noncommissioned Officer – Sgt. Nancy T. Vendiola, 154th Tactical Hospital, is the noncommissioned officer-in-charge of the physical examination section.
Outstanding Airman Senior Airman – Donna H. Derryberry, 154th Resource Management Squadron, is a financial services specialist in the comptroller’s office. She provided exceptional service and assistance in the travel/ pay section.
Outstanding Unit for 1989 The 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron is undergoing reorganization and a new mission.
George T. Miki Memorial Trophy – 1st Lt. Dennis K. Matsuura, 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron.
Outstanding HIANG Fighter Pilot – Capt. Darrell Y .H. Ching, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron.
Outstanding HIANG Air Traffic Controller – Sgt. Hidetaka J. Murakami, 297th Air Traffic Control Flight.
Outstanding Oahu Recruiter of the Year – Tech. Sgt. Carl J. Simmons, 154th Mission Support Squadron.
Outstanding On-theJob-Training Manager – Tech. Sgt. Thomas R. Sciulli, 154th Mission Support Squadron.
Outstanding HIANG Operations Award for Enlisted Personnel – Tech. Sgt. James W. Placek, 29 I st Combat Communications Squadron.
Outstanding HIANG Maintenance Award for Enlisted Personnel – Sgt. James M. Chun, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
Outstanding HIANG Support Award for Enlisted Personnel – Master Sgt. Iris T. Kabazawa, 154th Mission Support Squadron and Tech. Sgt. Roselina B. Vendiola, 154th Resource Management Squadron.
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 8
1988
1989
The 1988 Hawaii Air National Guard (HIANG) Awards Banquet was a night for winners
George T. Miki Memorial Trophy – Maj. Jerry Bona, 169th Aircraft Control & Warning Squadron, in the air weapons controller career field.
Outstanding Fighter Pilot Award – Capt. Marcus Rosehill, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron, in performing successful intercepts and assistance to aircraft in distress/ emergency situations.
Outstanding Air Traffic Controller Award (noncommissioned officer/NCO) – Master Sgt. Ronald Marushige, 297th Air Traffic Control Flight.
Outstanding Oahu Recruiter of the Year Award – Tech. Sgt. Carl Simmons, 154th Mission Support Squadron.
Outstanding Hawaii Air National Guard (HIANG) Airman Award – Senior Airman Susan Sakoda, 298th Air Traffic Control Flight.
Outstanding HIANG NCO Award – Staff Sgt. Gary Hema, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
Outstanding HIANG Senior NCO Award – Master Sgt. Moses Akana, 297th Air Traffic Control Flight.
Outstanding HIANG Officer Award – Lt. Col. Jerald Aoki, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron.
Outstanding HIANG Maintenance Award for Enlisted Personnel – Master Sgt. Reuben Kaneshiro, 293rd Combat Communications Squadron and Tech. Sgt. Wescott Lee, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
Outstanding HIANG Operations Award for Enlisted Personnel – Master Sgt. Vincent Dacanay, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron.
Outstanding HIANG Support Award for Enlisted Personnel – Master Sgt. Randall Hiyane, 154th Resource Management Squadron and Staff Sgt. Norton Malina, 169th Aircraft Control & Warning Squadron.
Outstanding HIANG Unit Award – 297th Air Traffic Control Flight.
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 4
1987
1987
The 1987 Hawaii Air National Guard Awards Banquet concluded a successful year for the Air Guard
George T. Miki Memorial Trophy (outstanding air weapons controller) – Maj. Arthur I. Kimura, 169th ACWS
Outstanding Weapons Systems Officer – Maj. Jeffery H. Nishimura. 199th TFS
Outstanding Fighter Pilot – Capt. Chris K. Sakamoto, 199th TFS
Outstanding Air Traffic Controller – Tech. Sgt. Francis K. Akana, 297th ATCF
Outstanding Oahu Recruiter of the Year – Tech. Sgt. Norman K.C Hu. 154th MSS
Outstanding HIANG Airman – Airman 1st Class Rochelle L.t.. Flores, 154th C S
Outstanding HIANG NCO – Tech. Sgt. James S. Taniguchi, 154th CES
Outstanding HIANG Senior NCO – Master Sgt. Joseph J. Kaaikaula. 154th CES
Outstanding HIANG Officer – Maj. Judith L. Fadrowskv, 154th TAC
Outstanding HIANG Unit – 154th Civil Engineering Squadron
Outstanding HIANG Maintenance Award for Enlisted Personnel (new) – Tech. Sgt. Mathias P. Thornley, 291st CCSQ
Outstanding HIANG Operations Award for Enlisted Personnel ( new) – Tech. Sgt. Thomas E. Arizumi, 199th TFS
Outstanding HIANG Support Award for Enlisted Personnel (new) – Tech. Sgt. Claire L. Mivamoto, 291st CCSQ and Tech. Sgt. Ronald S. Biho, 154th MSS
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 4
1986
November 22, 1986
Air Guard celebrates a ”Tradition of Excellence”
George T. Miki Memorial Trophy – 2nd Lt. Myles M. Moriguchi, 150th Aircraft Control & Warning Squadron.
Outstanding Air Traffic Controller – Master Sgt. Eric M. Kuniyoshi, 202nd Air Traffic Control Flight
Outstanding Weapons System Officer – Capt. Clyde Y. Torigoe, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron.
Outstanding Fighter Pilot – Capt. William C.Benton, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron.
Outstanding Recruiter of the Year – Master Sgt. Richard P. Saunders, 154th Combat Support Squadron.
Outstanding Airman – Senior Airman Douglas T. Michihara, 201st Air Traffic Control Flight.
Outstanding Noncommissioned Officer – Tech. Sgt. Lowell T. Agena, 202nd Air Traffic Control Flight.
Outstanding Senior Noncommissioned Officer – Senior Master Sgt. Norman M. Uyechi, 154th Civil Engineering Squadron.
Outstanding Officer – Lt. Col. Norman C. Ault, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
Outstanding Unit – 154th Tactical Hospital.
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 6
1982
November 20, 1982
The Hawaii Air National Guard’s top members were honored
Outstanding Unit – 199th Weather Flight.
Outstanding Airman – Airman 1st Class Brian H. Nakaguchi, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance
Squadron.
Outstanding Non-Commissioned Officer – Tech. Sgt. Godwin T. Hashimoto, 154th Civil Engineering Flight.
Outstanding Senior Non-Commissioned Officer – Master Sgt. Rodney K. H. Leong, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
Outstanding Officer – Lt. Col. Norman C. Ault, Jr., 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
Outstanding Fighter Pilot – I st Lt. Gregory B. Gardner, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron.
Outstanding Weapons System Officer – Capt. Michael J. Melich, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron.
George T. Miki Memorial Trophy – Capt. Eric S. Kanja, 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron.
Outstanding Recruiters – Tech. Sgt. Norman K. C. Hu was named top Oahu recruiter.
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 7
1981
1981
The Hawaii Air National Guard’s top members were honored recently at a special awards banquet
Outstanding Unit – 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron.
Outstanding Airman – Senior Airman Lisa A. Rodrigues, 154th Civil Engineering Flight.
Outstanding Non-Commissioned Officer – Tech. Sgt. Bertram T. Narita, 202nd Combat Communications Flight.
Outstanding Senior Non-Commissioned Officer – Master Sgt. Rex Y. Koga, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
Outstanding Fighter Pilot – Capt. Leroy T. Perry, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron.
Outstanding Weapons System Officer – Capt. Leonard N. Sporik, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron.
Outstanding Officer – Lt. Col. Reginald Y. Doi, 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron.
George T. Miki Memorial Trophy – Lt. Col. Clarence F.L. Jim, 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron.
Top Recruiter – Master Sgt. Richard Saunders, Headquarters, Hawaii Air National Guard.
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 10
1980
November 22, 1980
The fourth annual Hawaii Air National Guard awards banquet was held
Outstanding Unit – 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron.
Outstanding Airman – SrA. Antonio Querubin Jr., 199th Weather Flight.
Outstanding Non-Commissioned Officer – SSgt. Jack U brig, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
Outstanding Senior Non-Commissioned Officer – MSgt. RichardDeVeas, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
George T. Miki Memorial Trophy – Capt. Arthur Kimura, 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron.
Outstanding Fighter Pilot – Maj. Jerald Aoki, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron.
Outstanding Weapons System Officer – Capt. Richard Dove, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron.
Outstanding Officer – Maj. Myron Dobashi, 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron.
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 1
1979
November 17, 1979
The Hawaii Air National Guard recently held its Third Annual Awards Banquet to acknowledge Air Guard personnel and their accomplishments.
George R. Miki Trophy – Lt.Col. Norman G. E. Chang, 169th Aircraft Conan outstanding air weapons controller who excells in performing and advancing the air weapons controller specialty.
Outstanding Weapons System Officer – Capt. Richard C. Hastings, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron, received this perpetual trophy for his high level of knowledge, skill, leadership and devotion to duty as demonstrated in sustained superior performance.
Outstanding Fighter Pilot Award – Lt. Col. Joseph A. Ah New Jr., 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron, received this perpetual trophy for outstanding skill and knowledge in performing successful intercepts, assistance to aircrafts in distress/ emergency situations, devotion to duty, leadership and efforts to better squadron capabilities.
Outstanding HANG Airman Award – Amn Napua N. Sugai, 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, was presented this wooden tiki as the outstanding airman/ senior airman who best exemplifies the skills, attitude and personal attributes necessary for enhancing a successful career as a guardmember.
Outstanding HANG NCO Award – TSgt. Rodney N. Correa, 154th Composite Group, was presented this award as the outstanding NCO (E-4 through E-6) who best exemplifies high level quality ability and
leadership in enhancing the mission effectiveness and image of the Air Guard.
Outstanding HANG Senior NCO Award – MSgt. Seiichi Tsutsui, 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, was presented this award as the outstanding Senior NCO (E-7 through E-9) for his leadership, skills, and personal attributes which enhances mission accomplishment and community involvement.
Outstanding HANG Officer Award – Maj. Gerald J. Revuelto, 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, was awarded this trophy, a wooden replica of an old Hawaiian idol, for his leadership and effort to increase the capability of the Air Guard.
Outstanding HANG Unit Award – 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron was presented this award. Appraisal factors considered in the selecting of this award were combat readiness, strength and retention, attendance, military bearing, inspection and safety records.
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 3
1978
1978
The Hawaii Air National Guard recently held it’s second Annual Awards Banquet
Outstanding HANG Airman – Senior Airman Allan Bactad 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron
Outstanding HANG NCO – Staff Sgt. Ernest Dela Cruz 202d Air Traffic Control Flight
Outstanding HANG Senior NCO – Senior Master Sgt. Lawrence Sugihara 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron
Outstanding HANG Officer – Lt. Col. Edward Richardson 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron
Outstanding Fighter Pilot – Maj. Harold Schatz 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron
Outstanding Weapons Systems Officer – Capt. David Nishioka 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron
George R. Miki Memorial Award – 1st Lt. Jerry Bona, 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron
James Y. Sato Memorial Award – Capt. Myron Dobashi 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron
Capt. Dobashi Wins ’78 Efficiency Award
By Dennis Fujii
Associate EditorHONOLULU. Hawaii – Captain Myron Dobashi. 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron. of Kauai. was awarded the James Y. Sato Memorial Award for 1978.
The James Y. Sato Memorial Award is presented annually to a Hawaii Air National Guard officer for hist her exceptional effort in improving the efficiency of his her unit and of the Hawaii Air National Guard.
Capt. Dobashi. an air weapons controller. is a guardsman with many personal attributes which have distinguished him in the selection for the coveted Air Guard award.
Lt. Col. Raymond Moriguchi, commander of the 150th AC&W, recently wrote a letter of recommendation for Dobashi. Moriguchi cites him as a leader with an abundance of initiative and drive. As a result of his actions, Dobashi has motivated and involved personnel to work harder in their duties and assignments.
His crew has developed into one of the best in operations. During a recent Air Force standardization evaluation visit, all personnel assigned to Dobashi’s air defense crew passed with excellent or outstanding scores. As a direct result of Dobashi’s personal counseling and assistance, personnel previously considered marginal on examinations passed without difficulty.
As a manager, Capt. Dobashi is resourceful and thrift conscious. During a shortage of qualified personnel, Dobashi was assigned
additional duties which included security police officer. security manager, weapon explosive safety officer and civilian security guard supervisor. Normally, two officers are assigned to share these duties. The undertaking of these duties by Dobashi equated to a savings of about $3,000 in military pay for monthly drill and annual training periods for, the Air Guard.
Additionally, during an austere funding period imposed upon the Air Force civilian security section. Dobashi ingeniously used his Air Guard security section during the emergency to augment the security of the Kokee installation. The results of Dobashi’s actions saved approximately $200 for a four day period. But more importantly, it ensured the continuous security protection of the Air Guard’s Kauai installation.
One might ask, “With all his concerns for the 150th and its personnel, how is he doing as an individual officer of the Hawaii Air National Guard?”
As a result of his initiative and proficiency in all phases of air defense operations, he was recently upgraded to expert air weapons controller and was appointed officer in charge of a 24-hour air defense crew at the Kokee facility .
And how does the commander of his unit feel about Capt. Dobashi? In the closing comments of his letter of commendation, Lt. Col. Moriguchi reflected, “It is indeed a pleasure to have Capt. Dobashi in my organization, and I can truthfully say that I wish I had 10 more officers like him.
–1979 March Pupukahi
Outstanding HANG Unit Award – 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 8
1977
1977
The Hawaii Air National Guard held the First Annual Awards Banquet at the Pearl Harbor Officer’s Club to acknowledge HANG personnel and their accomplishments.
High Recruiter- SSgt. Kenneth Enoki, 201st Combat Communications Squadron (Hilo) was awarded a check for being the person who recruited the highest number of individuals during HANG’s recruiting competition, THE SKY’S THE LIMIT, held between April 1-Sept. 30, 1977.
High Team- The 201st Combat Communications Group was recognized as the unit that accrued the highest number of points resulting from referrals and enlistments during HANG’s recruiting competition. The unit received a check also donated by the Hawaii National Guard Association.
George R. Miki Memorial Trophy- Maj. Walter 0. Watanabe, 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, received this perpetual trophy. It is awarded annually to an outstanding air weapons controller who excels in performing and advancing the air weapons controller specialty.
Outstanding Weapons System Officer Award- Capt. William Jelks, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron, received this perpetual trophy for his high level of knowledge, skill, leadership and devotion to duty as demonstrated in sustained superior performance.
Outstanding Fighter Pilot Award- Capt. Michael Tice, 199th Tactical Fighter Squadron, received this
perpetual trophy for outstanding skill and knowledge in performing successful intercepts, assistance to aircrafts in distress/emergency situations, devotion to duty, leadership and efforts to better squadron capabilities.
Outstanding HANG Airman Award- AlC Kelly Kim, Jr., 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, was presented this wooden tiki as the outstanding airman/senior airman who best exemplifies the skills, attitudes and personal attributes necessary for enhancing a successful career as a guardsman.
Outstanding HANG NCO Award- TSgt. Galen Yamada, 154th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, was presented this award as the outstanding NCO (E-4 through E-6) who best exemplifies high level quality, ability and leadership in enhancing the mission effectiveness and image of the HANG.
Outstanding HANG Senior NCO Award- MSgt. Ronald lzutsu, 154th Supply Squadron, was presented this award as the outstanding Senior NCO (E-7 through E-9) for his leadership, skills, and personal attributes which enhance mission accomplishment and community involvement.
Outstanding HANG Officer Award- Maj. George Koga, 150th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, was awarded the trophy, a wooden replica of an old Hawaiian idol, for his leadership and efforts to increase the capability of the HANG.
Outstanding HANG Unit Award- The 169th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron was awarded the HANG’s Outstanding Unit Award. Appraisal factors considered in the selection of this award were combat readiness, strength and retention, attendance, military bearing, inspections and safety records.
Read about the awards in the Pupukahi on page 7