Retiree News

In a compelling look back at a little-known chapter of World War II, Lt. Col. Kawika Hosea sheds light on the tragic sinking of the USAT Royal T. Frank off the coast of the Big Island in January 1942. This transport vessel, carrying Hawaii National Guard Soldiers, was struck by a Japanese submarine torpedo — just weeks after the attack on Pearl Harbor.

The survivors, later known as the “Torpedo Gang” endured the unthinkable and lived to tell a story of courage, resilience, and sacrifice that few have heard — but none should forget.

This moment in history reminds us of the many untold stories that shaped the legacy of the Hawaii National Guard and our nation’s defense. Watch the podcast below:

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