Hawaiʻi National Guard Highlights Outstanding Spouses for Military Spouse Appreciation Day
Behind every uniform is a foundation of unwavering support, resilience and quiet sacrifice. Military Spouse Appreciation Day honors the unsung heroes of our Armed Forces, the spouses who navigate the profound challenges of deployments and the unpredictable demands of military life. Their steadfast dedication not only sustains their families on the home front but directly enables the operational readiness and strength of our national defense. As we recognize their quiet service, we celebrate the vital and enduring role they play within the broader military community.
Within the Hawaiʻi National Guard, this spirit of enduring commitment is seamlessly captured by four remarkable spouses nominated for recognition this year. Their unwavering dedication stands as a testament to the vital support system behind our Guardsmen. These are their stories.
Hawaiʻi Air National Guard
Chris Wong, Spouse of Senior Master Sgt. Angela Dela Cruz, 154th Wing
Among this year’s nominees is Chris Wong, the dedicated spouse of Senior Master Sgt. Angela Dela Cruz from the 154th Wing. Senior Master Sgt. Dela Cruz said,
“He is my hero not because of one big moment, but because of the countless quiet ways he shows up every single day. From the very beginning, he supported my decision to serve, and together we’ve grown through this journey navigating military life side by side, even with his own background as a military child. He often knows what I need before I even have to say it.
Through Basic Military Training, tech school, deployments, temporary duty, drill weekends, late nights and everything in between, he has been my steady constant whether that meant stepping in to handle life at home or simply being there to listen.
Now, with two little ones, he continues to hold down the home front, managing school, appointments and sports with patience and love. Our kids follow his example, showing up to events to help set up, pitch in where they can and bring the kind energy that keeps us all grounded and smiling.
In this season of increased responsibility, they all stand beside me, supporting in every way possible. I am beyond grateful for his unwavering support, selflessness and the quiet sacrifices he makes he truly is a Hawaiʻi Air National Guard spouse hero.”
Sharon Banaag, Spouse of Maj. Aris Banaag, 292nd Combat Communications Squadron
One of this year’s nominees is Sharon Banaag, the devoted spouse of Maj. Aris Banaag from the 292nd Combat Communications Squadron. Maj. Banaag said,
“I wanted to nominate my wife Sharon, for all the work she has continuously done to help the 292nd Combat Communications Squadron, as well as all those affected during the past government shut down.
Her commitment to service was most evident in her coordinated efforts with the local food bank. As precisely documented in the official Pop-Up Food Distribution Armory Report 2025, the pop-up distributions successfully served 2,346 individuals, including 1,747 new recipients who had not previously required assistance. Her efforts directly supported 779 families, 563 of which were new families. She was part of the 88 volunteers, generating an impressive 440 total volunteer hours.
Sharon has also started a nonprofit foundation, Hale Koa O Maui Foundation, that supports military families that are need.”
Hawaiʻi Army National Guard
Vicky Cabacongan, Spouse of Command Sgt. Maj.Gary Cabacongan, Recruiting and Retention Battalion
Amid this year’s nominees is Vicky Cabacongan, the committed spouse of Command Sgt. Maj. Gary Cabacongan, from the Recruiting and Retention Battalion. Command Sgt. Maj. Cabacongan said,
“Vicky has been a devoted partner for over a decade, providing steadfast support since 2011. Throughout our journey together, she has made significant sacrifices and shown unwavering dedication, enabling myself to fulfill my roles and responsibilities effectively. Vicky’s support has been a crucial pillar in my career, contributing to the success and the well-being of our ʻohana.
In addition to her role as a supportive spouse, Vicky showcases her strong commitment to the military community through her professional position at Navy Federal Credit Union. In this capacity, she engages with service members and their families daily, ensuring they receive the financial assistance and guidance they need.
Vicky consistently demonstrates an exceptional work ethic, dedicating herself to providing high-quality service that exceeds expectations. Vicky’s genuine passion for helping others is evident in her proactive approach, as she frequently goes the extra mile to advocate for the financial interests of those who serve our country. Through her efforts, Vicky plays an integral role in fostering a supportive environment for military families, reflecting her strong dedication our ohana and the military community as a whole.”
Leiliʻa Leong, Spouse of Maj. Keoki Leong, 299th Cavalry Regiment, 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team
This year’s final nominee is Leiliʻa Leong, the steadfast spouse of Maj. Keoki Leong from the 299th Cavalry Regiment, 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. Maj. Leong said,
“The motto Noblesse Oblige — to whom much is given, much is expected — is not merely a family slogan for Leiliʻa; it is the quiet, steady rhythm of her life. For over twenty-five years, she has been the anchor of our ‘ohana, transforming the daunting challenges of service into a testament of grace and resilience.
While the uniform demands my presence at the frontlines of our Nation and State’s most trying moments, Leili’a provides the calming blanket that makes that service possible. She balances the weight of a demanding career and motherhood with the intricate roles of a military spouse. Whether she is navigating the lonely storms of overseas deployments, hosting senior leadership, or leading the Hula Ministry at our church, she leads with a heart centered on service.
More than two decades ago, I prayed for a partner, and God answered with a blessing that exceeds words. Leili’a embodies the strength required to endure sacrifice and the warmth required to keep a family whole. Through every deployment and every exercise, her unwavering love remains our North Star. She proves daily that true nobility isn’t found in status, but in the selfless devotion she offers to her family, her faith, and our community.”
The dedication demonstrated by Chris Wong, Sharon Banaag, Vicky Cabacongan and Leiliʻa Leong serves as a powerful reminder that the Hawaiʻi National Guard’s mission is truly a family endeavor. While we cannot individually recognize every spouse across our organization today, these stories represent the thousands of family members who serve alongside our Guardsmen.
Our readiness is inextricably linked to the resilience of the ʻohana that sustains our force. The Hawaiʻi National Guard honors their collective sacrifice and celebrates the vital, enduring role they play in our mission success.
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