NEWS RELEASE: Statement of HI-EMA Administrator Vern T. Miyagi on resignation

HONOLULU — Hawaii Emergency Agency Administrator Vern T. Miyagi today issued the following statement on his resignation from the agency:

“I want to thank Governor David Ige and Maj. Gen. Joe Logan for giving me the opportunity to administer the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency and serve the people of Hawaii. It has been an honor and a privilege, and I will always look upon it as one of the finest most rewarding challenges in my life.

“To everyone I have worked with at HI-EMA, thank you. None of us could have done this alone; it took an effort by a skilled, dedicated and professional team who shared an absolute commitment to the safety and security of our community. We faced some big events, from Iselle and the Iao Valley flood, to threats like the Puna Lava Flow and Dengue Fever. We prepared for numerous tsunamis and hurricanes, and helped Hawaii come to grips with the idea of a North Korean missile. I encourage you to look back on each of those events and remember how important your efforts were to our families and neighbors, the people who rely on us. You have the skills and capacity to do what Hawaii needs. Don’t give up. Never quit. Lives depend on you.

“And to the people of Hawaii, recent events have cast a bright light on our emergency preparedness, and caused many of you to consider whether you are ready for the emergencies we will surely face. Don’t let that feeling pass without taking action. Here it is from me one last time: Know where to go, what to do, and when to do it. Have a plan. Be safe, and know that whatever happens, good and courageous people will be there to help.”

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Contact:

Richard Rapoza
Public Information Officer
[email protected]
808-392-0780

Arlina Agbayani
Public Relations Officer
[email protected]
808-620-5423

Hawaii Emergency Management Agency
[email protected]