Retiree News

The establishment of the Hawaii Naval Militia in 1915 marked a significant, albeit short-lived, development in the evolution of territorial military forces in the Hawaiian Islands during the early twentieth century. Created under Act 151 of the 1915 Territorial Legislature, the Naval Militia was envisioned as a complement to the National Guard, reflecting growing recognition of maritime defense needs amidst increasing global tensions.

Despite the enabling legislation, Act 151 failed to appropriate funds for the militia’s support. This absence of financial backing was partially mitigated by the personal initiative of Gov. Lucius E. Pinkham, who allotted $250 per month from his Contingent Fund.

This early support enabled the formation of the Naval Militia Board and the preliminary organization of two of the four authorized divisions. The board convened in January 1916 and by mid-year, the Hawaii Naval Militia had formed both a Deck Division and Engineer Division and commenced active recruitment and training.

Material and logistical challenges were omnipresent. Requisitioned equipment — including small arms, clothing, hammocks and boats — arrived in time for the Militia’s first public appearance during the Memorial Day ceremonies in 1916. Weekly drills were held regularly, covering infantry tactics, naval signaling, first aid, and seamanship.

The most significant training event during this period occurred in September of that year, when members of the Militia embarked on a 15-day training exercise aboard the USS St. Louis, a light cruiser stationed at Pearl Harbor. The vessel visited Waimea (Kaua‘i), Lahaina and Hilo, providing hands-on instruction that mirrored regular Navy standards. This cruise demonstrated the Militia’s capacity to integrate effectively with U.S. Navy operations and garnered favorable reports from naval officers.

By the close of 1916, the Naval Militia had reached a strength of 100 enlisted personnel and nine officers under the command of Lt. Cmdr. William H. Stroud. Deteriorating headquarter conditions, along with inadequate waterfront storage facilities for boats and equipment, underscored the fragile infrastructure supporting the Militia.

In early 1917, as the United States entered the First World War, the Hawaii Naval Militia was drafted into federal service. Of the full roster, only seven officers and 43 enlisted men met the rigorous physical standards required for active duty. These individuals were assigned to the USS St. Louis and deployed to the Atlantic theater, where they served through the duration of the conflict.

The remainder of the force, 49 enlisted personnel, were discharged during 1918. With the demobilization of its members and absence of renewed legislative or financial support, the Hawaii Naval Militia effectively ceased to exist following World War I.

References: History of the Hawaii National Guard, 1915-1916 Annual Report, 1917-1918 Biennial Report