2024 Military Appreciation

Iam honored to express my utmost gratitude and admiration for the remarkable courage and dedication demonstrated by the United States Armed Forces. Your commitment to safeguarding our nation’s freedom and security is truly commendable and serves as an inspiration to us all.

From active-duty personnel to reservists and veterans, each of you has selflessly chosen to don the military uniform, embracing the solemn responsibility of protecting our cherished liberties. Your sacrifices, alongside those of your families, are invaluable contributions that ensure the safety and well-being of our communities.

In reflecting on the sacrifices made by past and present service members, we are reminded of the profound significance of the oaths you uphold. To each service member and to your families, I extend my heartfelt mahalo nui loa. Your steadfast commitment to duty, honor, and country exemplifies the very essence of patriotism and serves as a beacon of hope for generations to come.

As we navigate through the challenges of the present, I also wish to acknowledge and offer my support to the thousands of military families. I am committed to advocating for your well-being and ensuring that you receive the care and support you deserve.

On behalf of the people of Hawaii, I urge all residents of the Aloha State to join me in honoring and recognizing the remarkable contributions of our service members and their families. Your loyalty and dedication to our nation are deeply appreciated, and your sacrifices will never be forgotten.

In honor of National Military Appreciation Month, I would like to extend a warm aloha and my sincere gratitude to the members of the United States Armed Forces, veterans, and their cherished ohana.

The honorable service you have dedicated to the United States is truly commendable. Your courage in the face of adversity and unwavering support for one another truly embodies the spirit of aloha.

Whether deployed overseas or stationed at home, your sacrifices resonate deeply with all Americans, extending far beyond the shores of Hawaii. Your dutiful service has ensured the freedom and safety of Hawaii residents.

As we reflect on the significance of this month, it is essential to recognize not only the valor displayed by our service members but also the steadfast support provided by their ohana. Their unwavering strength and support are integral to the success of our Armed Forces and deserve our utmost appreciation.

On behalf of the state of Hawaii and its people, I want to send a heartfelt mahalo to the members of the United States Armed Forces, veterans and their ohana. We are forever grateful for your dedication and the sacrifices you and your families have made. Your commitment to defending peace and freedom will forever be remembered.

With warm aloha,

JOSH GREEN, M.D.

With aloha, SYLVIA LUKE

SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM GOVERNOR JOSH GREEN

SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR SYLVIA LUKE

With genuine aloha and heartfelt gratitude,

OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels honors our military heroes and their families.

Mahalo for your service.

SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM U.S. SENATOR BRIAN SCHATZ

As we recognize Military Appreciation Month, I want to extend my sincerest thanks to all of our nation’s servicemembers and veterans for your service.

While we’ll never be able to fully repay you and your families for your extraordinary dedication, this month and every month, you have our deepest respect and gratitude. You exemplify American values every day, promoting democracy and defending freedom in every corner of the world. Your courage and commitment — often under the most difficult and dangerous circumstances — have made a difference in the lives of millions of people who are safe and secure because of it.

I also want to thank your parents, partners, children and other loved ones who help make your service possible. Military service is challenging and requires support from your families and those around you, and their contributions do not go unnoticed.

To everyone in the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserves, and National Guard — mahalo for your dedication to protecting our state and country. Best wishes during this National Military Appreciation Month.

SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM U.S. SENATOR MAZIE HIRONO

Ijoin the people of Hawaii in expressing gratitude and respect for our active duty military, veterans and their families.

Throughout this month, we recognize and honor the members of our military for their unwavering service. Their commitment and dedication are vital in keeping our country safe and protecting our democracy. I also extend a warm mahalo to the families and loved ones of our military members for the support they provide and the sacrifices they make.

At the end of this month, we will commemorate Memorial Day and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our country. This is a solemn day to reflect on their memories. We must honor their legacies and reaffirm our support for their Gold Star families as they continue to cherish memories of their loved ones.

As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I remain deeply committed to advocating for our active duty members and veterans here in Hawaii and across the country. Our nation owes them a debt of gratitude, and I will continue to ensure that we live up to the promises we made to provide access to quality housing, education, health care and behavioral health services.

Mahalo to all the members of our Armed Forces and their families. We thank you for your dedication and courage, and we honor you during this Military Appreciation Month, and throughout the year.

Mahalo, BRIAN SCHATZ

Aloha, MAZIE HIRONO

WAIKOLOA VILLAGE®

HAWAIIAN VILLAGE® WAIKIKI BEACH RESORT

It is my deep honor, on behalf of all I am privileged to represent in Congress, to extend my warm congratulations and sincere appreciation to all of the men and women who have served, are serving and will serve in our nation’s Armed Forces.

It is impossible to convey the full measure of gratitude and respect for your service. While “freedom is not free”, the burden of paying the price of freedom is not borne equally but falls on you, and we are always in your debt.

We must honor that debt by ensuring that you are mission ready with the manpower, training and material you need, that your families are cared for, and that when your service ends you and yours receive all of what we have committed to you. That is my commitment to you as one Member of Congress.

U.S. REPRESENTATIVE JILL TOKUDA

In honor of National Military Appreciation Month, I extend my sincerest appreciation to all who serve and have served in our Armed Forces.

This past year has tested our people and communities in unimaginable ways. As fires blazed on Maui and Hawaii Island, our military personnel were there on the scene to provide support, and they’ve been there every day since, playing an active role in the recovery and rebuilding of Lahaina.  In a whole of government response, dedicated men and women from every branch of our military have helped with rescue and recovery, debris removal, restoring power and communications, and transporting cargo, equipment and supplies to areas in need.

Serving on the House Armed Services Committee, I am committed to making sure we invest in and care for the men and women on the frontlines and their families as much as we do armaments and installations.  From demanding transparency and accountability on Red Hill, to ensuring the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) focuses on housing impacts, fair cost-of-living allowances for service members in Hawaii, and safety standards for childcare development centers—I am committed to taking care of those who defend and protect all of us.

As the granddaughter, sister, and daughter-in-law of veterans, I have a deep personal commitment to our men and women in uniform and their families. I am constantly reminded that we can never fully repay them for the sacrifices they have made, but we can honor them by taking care of them. This is something I continue to fight for through my work in Hawaii and in Washington, D.C.

While we celebrate May as National Military Appreciation Month in Hawaii and across the country, let us not forget that those who serve deserve our appreciation and support each and every day. Mahalo to all our service members and their families here in Hawaii and our kamaaina abroad for your contributions to a most grateful nation.

Respectfully,

JILL TOKUDA

With warm aloha, ED CASE

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Selfless Hickam airman Massey saves lives

STORY BY SENIOR AIRMAN MAKENSIE COOPER 154TH WING

When the time came to save a life, one airman found that he was in the right place at the right time, not once, but twice. A loadmaster with the 535th Airlift Squadron at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam did not hesitate to step up and act when the emergencies presented themselves to him.

During a sunset cruise with his family off the coast of Waikiki, Tech. Sgt. Christopher Massey, 535th AS loadmaster, noticed an individual in distress and panic due to rough waters. While in the water with his family, Massey swam over to the troubled swimmer and tried to calm her down. Despite the person’s

frantic movements, he was able to gain safe control of her by securing her back to his chest. Massey then had to swim 50 yards through significant swells back to safety.

“I had no time to yell to get someone to throw me something,” states Massey, describing the event. “My son was like, ‘I can’t believe you just saved that woman’s life,’ and I was like, ‘Yeah, I wasn’t going to let her drown.’”

Massey acted on instinct, and employed the water survival skills he learned in aircrew training to provide aid to save the individual. He used the same instincts several months earlier while on temporary duty assignment in Japan.

Massey’s instincts led him to recognize a fellow airman who was struggling

plating suicide.

“It wasn’t just training, it was the need or desire to help somebody. If it were me, I would want that empathy because I have lost people to suicide,” Massey states. “I didn’t just do it because I have the ability. I was helping because I genuinely care about the welfare of people in general.”

Drawing on his experience as an acting first sergeant, he was able to unite three wings from two major commands to help the distressed member, and ensured a safe and secure journey home. The airman expressed appreciation for the assistance.

ment of what we are,” states Massey. “Whether I take off my rank and name or the flag, I’m still going to be me and I just try to look at it as what I can do to the best of my abilities to help as many people and to just be a good person.”

Massey was recently nominated for an achievement medal and an award for his exemplary actions.

PHOTO BY SENIOR AIRMAN MAKENSIE COOPER

in a distraught state. While waiting in his hotel lobby, he noticed the individual and offered assistance. This would lead Massey to find that the airman was contem-

“I’m a firm believer that you’re put in a place at the right time. I like to tell people that the uniform doesn’t identify us, it’s just a characteristic or an ele-

“Tech. Sgt. Massey’s selfless actions and unwavering commitment to the well-being of his fellow Airmen exemplify the core values of the United States Air Force,” states Senior Master Sgt. Paul Garcia, 535th Airlift Squadron senior enlisted leader. “He has demonstrated courage, leadership and compassion in two critical incidents, leaving an indelible mark on the Air Force community.”

Breaking ground on new all-abilities playground

The U.S. Air Force’s 15th Wing at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam hosted a ceremony to celebrate the groundbreaking on the Hickam Field of Dreams all-abilities playground in March.

The new playground will be the first of its kind on Oahu, featuring structures that can support the weight of children and adults, encouraging parents and caregivers to play alongside children of all physical and cognitive abilities.

“Hickam Field of Dreams is different in that it (will be) an inclusive park with a focus on providing a space for members of all abilities to be able to come together,” states Master Sgt. Brennen

Defazio, former 15th Wing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility representative. “By providing opportunities for children of all abilities to play and learn together, we create a more equitable and compassionate world for future generations.”

The project will feature inclusive elements like parent-and-me swings, wheelchair access points, multilevel slides and a gravity rail zipline structure — all designed to encourage integrated play.

Captain Anna Davis, 15th Wing executive officer, discussed how the project is addressing families that are part of the Exceptional Family Member Program, a service that works with military and civilian agencies to provide comprehensive and coordinated community support, housing, and educa -

15th Wing commander, Col. Michele Lo Bianco, who is personally invested in providing a playground for families like her own.

“As an EFMP mother to a nonverbal autistic son, we are often forgotten and our needs are not considered when planning parks and play spaces. My son, just like other children, wants to play, explore and be a kid,” she states. “We have a large number of EFMP children and moreover, we have so many families that want to connect and have fun. This playground, Hickam Field of Dreams, is the first step in investing in our families and their future. ”

U.S.

tional, medical and personnel services to families with special needs.

“We want our military families to feel heard, seen

and valued. EFMP families belong here. Their children belong here,” states Davis. The playground has been a passion project for the

Lo Bianco expressed how the playground may open more doors to families on the installation and how she hopes to expand the use of the playground to the surrounding community after its construction.

“The local community also has the same requirements and needs (as military families). This park is a great opportunity to bring in the community and connect. I envision a shared space where both military and community members and their children share joy and create great memories,” states Lo Bianco.

The playground is expected to finish construction in July of this year and will be open to service members and their families on and off base.

“We want to have community spaces where we can connect, have fun and be accepted,” Lo Bianco states.

“I am proud of the entire team that continues to make this dream a reality for generations to come. They truly embrace our Wing motto of ‘Make it Matter!’”

Tech. Sgt. Christopher Massey, 535th Airlift Squadron loadmaster, shares his story about being in the right place at the right time at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam on Nov. 1, 2023. Massey was recently nominated for an achievement medal and an award for his exemplary actions.

Pacific Air Forces and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam leadership participated in a groundbreaking ceremony with the project contractor at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in March. The Hickam Field of Dreams playground, the first of its kind on Oahu, is designed to encourage parents and caregivers to play with children of all physical and cognitive abilities.

AIR FORCE PHOTO BY STAFF SGT. ALAN RICKER

Soldiers host a ‘Charity Ruck’ to support Maui

STORY BY 1ST LT. DAVID BLOCK 25TH INFANTRY DIVISION

Soldiers and leaders from Headquarters and Headquarters Battery (HHB), 25th Division Artillery (DIVARTY), demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the local community by organizing and executing a “Charity Ruck” march to aid citizens affected by the devastating fires on Maui.

In a remarkable display of solidarity, participants collectively carried more than 945 pounds of donations such as nonperishable foods, diapers, baby formula and other essential items, to the designated drop-off point.

Cpt. Susan A. Chiarella is the commander of HHB DIVARTY and was filled with

pride at the selflessness of the individuals in her formation.

“Our soldiers have once again demonstrated their selfless service and commitment to helping others,” she states. “Their efforts today showcase the true essence of the Army values: loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage.”

1st Sgt. of HHB DIVARTY

Gerald H. Dejohn was also vital to the success of the event and felt a strong sense of pride over what was accomplished.

“The soldiers of HHB, 25th DIVARTY, proved that their dedication to service extends far beyond the gun line,” states Dejohn. “Their ‘Charity Ruck’ march for Maui fire victims serves as a shining example of the Army’s relationship with the state of Hawaii.”

Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 25th Division Artillery (DIVARTY), including its soldiers and leaders, demonstrated their unwavering

community by organizing a “Charity Ruck” march to help all those affected by the devastating fires on Maui.

PHOTO BY 1ST LT. DAVID BLOCK

Soldier receives medal for saving woman’s life

STORY BY SGT. ALVIN CONLEY

25TH INFANTRY DIVISION

A25th Infantry Division Soldier was recognized for his heroic actions during a Soldier’s Medal Award Ceremony at Schofield Barracks on July 19, 2023.

The ceremony was held to honor U.S. Army Spc. Rene Rodriguez, an El Paso, Texas, native and combat medic assigned to 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, for his acts of heroism on Oct. 20, 2022.

Leaving Schofield Barracks that afternoon, Rodriguez was heading to the North Shore to enjoy the weekend, when he noticed a group of bystanders outside of a coffee shop in Wahiawa,

surrounding a woman being violently assaulted. With action and complete disregard for his own safety, Rodriguez made the split-second decision to intervene.

Putting himself between the attacker and the woman, Rodriguez took the brunt of the attack, allowing the woman to seek safety in his vehicle. Rodriguez was successfully able to protect the woman and get her to safety until law enforcement and emergency services arrived.

A witness of the events reported Rodriguez’s selfless act to his chain of command. Without contact with the witness, his chain of command would not have known about the incident.

“Without question, Spc. Rodriguez risked his life to save the life of another,” states U.S. Army Col. Robert

U.S. Army Spc. Rene Rodriguez (center), a combat medic assigned to 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, stands with his parents to be recognized after receiving the Soldier’s Medal, July 19, 2023, at Schofield Barracks.

U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY SGT. RICHARD MOHR

Shaw, the 3rd IBCT, 25th Infantry Division commander. “Spc. Rodriguez did what

was right, helping a Hawaiian woman he didn’t know. There were others there that

day who did not act, but Rene Rodriguez did.”

“This honor is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice displayed by soldiers who have come before me, as well as those who serve alongside me,” states Rodriguez. “Receiving the Soldier’s Medal is a humbling experience that reminds me of the values we hold dear as soldiers: courage, selflessness and dedication to the greater good.”

Introduced in July 1926, the Soldier’s Medal is the highest Army individual decoration honor a Soldier can receive for an act of valor in a non-combat event. More than 18,500 soldiers have received the decoration since its inception.

In accepting the medal, Rodriguez thanked his family and leadership for their continued support.

“I am deeply grateful to my family for their love, understanding and unwavering support throughout my military journey,” states Rodriguez.

“I extend my sincere thanks to my mentors and leaders, whose guidance and wisdom have shaped me as a Soldier. I will continue to serve with dedication and uphold the values that this award represents.”

“There are only 241 soldiers in the regular Army who’ve been awarded the Soldier’s Medal — about 1/20 of 1% of all soldiers on active duty,” states Shaw. “Spc. Rodriguez, as the citation reads, you are absolutely a great credit to our division and our Army, and we all owe you a debt of gratitude.”

Final lighthouse keeper returns after 50 years

BY U.S. COAST GUARD

Ron Cianfarani, retired U.S. Coast Guard Senior Chief Petty Officer and the final manual caretaker of the Makapuu Lighthouse, received a guided tour from the Coast Guard’s Aids to Navigation Team (ANT) Honolulu on Jan. 24.

Built in 1909, the Makapuu lighthouse was a fully manned and operational station until becoming automated in 1974. The lighthouse has been under the maintenance and care of ANT Honolulu for the past 50 years. Cianfarani, currently in retirement, took the opportunity during his vacation to revisit the lighthouse and the grounds where he served.

The visit provided Cianfarani with a chance to reflect on the earlier era when lighthouse keepers and crews lived on-site, managing maintenance, repairs, and responding to emergencies such as shipwrecks.

Significant changes incorporating solar panels, batteries, and modern LED lights have improved efficiency and visibility to the lighthouse, allowing the beacon to continue assisting mariners for years to come.

Established in 1789, the U.S. Lighthouse Establishment played a key role in constructing, maintaining and repairing lighthouses, providing navigational aid to mariners.

Evolving into the U.S. Lighthouse Service in 1910, it eventually merged with

the United States Coast Guard in 1939. While the responsibilities of a lighthouse keeper have evolved with technological advancements, the fundamental mission persists: ensuring the safety and navigation of mariners along coastlines.

Cianfarani’s visit underscores the enduring legacy of maritime history and the United States Coast Guard’s commitment to safeguarding coastal waters.

Ron Cianfarani, retired U.S. Coast Guard Senior Chief Petty Officer and the final manual caretaker of the Makapuu Lighthouse, received a guided tour from the Coast Guard’s Aids to Navigation Team Honolulu on Jan. 24.

PHOTO COURTESY PETTY OFFICER 2ND CLASS TYLER ROBERTSON

Groups focus on humpback whale safety

BY U.S. COAST GUARD

The U.S. Coast Guard joined partners during Operation Kohola Guardian to reduce risk to humpback whales in waters around the Hawaiian Islands, Jan. 1 through March 31.

U.S. Coast Guard District 14 partnered with the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration Office of Law Enforcement and the Hawaii Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement.

Operation Kohola Guardians was a focused mission that occurred during peak whale season, from January to March, that was designed to monitor and protect humpback whales, enforce humpback whale regulations, provide outreach and educa-

tion to the community, and respond to distressed whales.

Thousands of humpback whales seasonally use the waters around the Hawaiian Islands as their principal breeding and calving wintering grounds.

Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary is one of 15 National Marine Sanctuaries designated as special areas set aside for long-term protection and conservation, and provides extremely important habitat for humpback whales.

Mariners and visitors are reminded that the following activities are prohibited and unlawful:

• A vessel, individual or drone approaching within 100 yards of any humpback whale.

• Operating an aircraft

within 1,000 feet of any humpback whale, except as necessary for takeoff or landing from an airport or runway.

• Harassing, hunting, capturing or killing — or any attempt to do any of these actions — of any humpback whale in the sanctuary.

“Operation Kohola Guardian is a shining example of how the Coast Guard, alongside our invaluable partners at NOAA and the Hawaii Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement, effectively safeguard the fragile marine ecosystems of the Hawaiian Islands,” states Lt. Cmdr. Nic Iannarone, chief of enforcement at U.S. Coast Guard Sector Honolulu.

“Through collaborative efforts, shared intelligence

and coordinated patrols, we ensure the safety of protected and iconic species like humpback whales, while simultaneously fostering responsible practices amongst ocean users. This

collaborative approach is not only crucial for enforcing regulations, but also for educating the public and fostering appreciation for the delicate balance of our marine environment.”

If you see a violation or are involved in a collision with a humpback whale, call the NOAA Hotline at 1-800853-1964. If a phone call is not possible, hail the Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16.

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(Above left and right) The U.S. Coast Guard joined partners in reducing risk to humpback whales around the Hawaiian Islands during Operation Kohola Guardian.

U.S. COAST GUARD PHOTO COURTESY PETTY OFFICER 3RD CLASS BENJAMIN BERKOW

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VMGR-153 assists in Maui response efforts

STORY BY 2ND LT. HANNAH VENABLES

1ST MARINE AIRCRAFT WING

U.S. Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 153 (VMGR-153), Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, answered the call last Aug. 14 and Aug. 22 to assist Joint Task Force 50 (JTF-50) in their efforts to provide relief in the wake of the devastating Maui wildfires of Aug. 8. VMGR-153 at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay facilitated the transport of personnel and equipment with their KC-130J Hercules in support of Maui response efforts.

The KC-130J Hercules is most recognized for its incredible versatility, including medical evacuations, cargo and personnel transportation,

air support and reconnaissance, and the ability to land in austere environments. The aircraft can support humanitarian, special operations, aerial refueling, firefighting, and search and rescue missions around the globe.

VMGR-153’s flight on Aug. 14 transported Hawaii National Guardsmen with JTF-50, the command-and-control element that will coordinate Department of Defense response efforts. The Aug. 22 flight transported personnel and equipment with the U.S. Navy’s Mobile Dive and Salvage unit.

VMGR-153 is a relatively new squadron in Hawaii, formally activated about a year ago, that has quickly demonstrated dedication to service and professionalism with adept pilots, aircrew and maintainers.

tance highlights the importance of unified joint-force efforts and how they can be critical in disaster response. As the island of Maui looks toward a road to recovery, VMGR-153 remains steadfast in its commitment to stand by the community’s side. The squadron’s ability to rapidly respond and provide support in times of need embodies the principles of service and dedication that define the United States Marine Corps.

“Our squadron was on standby, and when we heard that JTF-50 requested our support, we were excited to help. Times like this are why we work and train so hard, to excel in both combat and humanitarian missions at

a moment’s notice. We are always happy to help when needed,” states Capt. Ezekiel Cary, who piloted the Aug. 14 flight.

“Joining the Marine Corps, that’s one of the things that I wanted to do,

is to be able to be ready to support in any way that I can during humanitarian and disaster relief events. I was glad we could answer the call because we were here and ready,” Cary adds.

VMGR-153’s recent assis-

U.S. Marines in Hawaii remain postured to support emergency relief efforts to the island of Maui in accordance with U.S. federal law and upon appropriate government authorities. The Marine Corps remains prepared to continue support once the Federal Emergency Management Agency determines what is necessary.

U.S. Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 153 (VMGR-153), Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, prepare to load equipment into a KC-130J Hercules at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay at Marine Corps Base

Hawaii on Aug. 22, 2023.

U.S. MARINE CORPS PHOTO BY LANCE CPL. LOGAN BEENEY

Indo-Pacific sector participates in Keen Edge 24

STORY BY MAJ. SARAH BABCOCK SPACE OPERATIONS COMMAND PUBLIC AFFAIRS

U.S. Space Forces

Indo-Pacific — headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii — participated in Keen Edge 24 Feb. 1-8, throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

Keen Edge 24 was a bilateral command post exercise with the U.S. and the Japan Self Defense Forces, with Australian Defense Force participation. This year’s exercise explored critical space and cyberspace issues within a multi-domain environment across the spectrum of conflict.

As space continues to remain an increasingly essential domain for military operations, communication and intelligence gathering, strong partnerships and collaborations with international allies, such as those in Keen Edge 24, are considered imperative for ensuring the security and safety of spacebased assets.

“This is the first time that our component field command has participated in Keen Edge,” said Maj. Justin Cunningham, logistics and cyber director, U.S. Space Forces, Indo-Pacific. “This exercise solidifies the sheer effectiveness and capabilities provided by SPACEFOR-INDOPAC.”

The exercise was a series of joint-multilateral command post exercises designed to increase integrated joint operational capability, refine command

and control procedures and enhance interoperability of all participants. Cooperation alongside allies and partners is critical in ensuring and maintaining the safety, security, stability and sustainability of the domain.

“Like every other component of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, our goal was to train interdependently with our allies and partners,”

Cunningham said. “We’re not alone out here in the Pacific, and we’re not alone in the defense of space.”

Approximately 125 people making up the total joint force — from Guardians, Airmen, Soldiers, Marines and civilians directly supported SPACEFOR-INDOPAC’s team.

“I’m incredibly proud of the work the team accom-

plished during this exercise. The level of integration and synchronization across all domains was the best I’ve seen,” states Brig. Gen. Anthony Mastalir. “Space is a critical component of the joint force, and the opportunity to integrate with space forces from Japan and Australia better informs how we must fight in the Indo-Pacific. This was no small feat for the newest service.”

Keen Edge is part of the annual U.S.-Japan exercise series that alternates between field training exercises (Keen Sword) and command post exercises. During Keen Edge 24, Japanese, U.S. and Australian headquarters staffs employed computer simulations to practice responses in the event of a crisis or contingency.

(From left) U.S. Space Force Maj. Jerra Brown, National Space Defense Center director of force development, U.S. Navy Lt. Matthew Dring, NSDC space planner, and U.S. Army Maj. Mitchell Daugherty, NSDC special technical operations chief and chief of combat operations, look at a computer screen in support of Keen Edge 24 at Schriever Space Force Base in Colorado on Feb. 8. U.S. SPACE FORCE PHOTO COURTESY TIANA WILLIAMS

Federal firefighters save Army sergeant’s life

STORY BY ANNA MARIE GONZALES NAVY REGION HAWAII

Waking up two and a half weeks later, Sgt. Dustin Woodmansee, an Army service member assigned to the 13th Military Police Detachment at Schofield Barracks, experienced his first sudden cardiac arrest. To his surprise, he woke up in a hospital bed unable to remember what had happened.

The last thing he could recall was working out at the gym, going home to his Army residence at Helemano Military Reservation in Wahiawa and falling asleep.

In the fall of last year, at about 7:50 in the morning, Navy Region Hawaii’s Federal Fire Department Station 10-Engine 110 (E110), located on HMR received an emergency call and responded to Woodmansee having a seizure at his home.

Arriving on scene, the firefighters discovered him going into cardiac arrest. Immediately, the firefighters deployed their AED or automated external defibrillator and started CPR along with basic life support care. As the incident was getting critical, mutual aid was requested.

With the mutual aid agreement, the Honolulu Fire Department BLS Engine company and a Honolulu Emergency Medical Services Advanced Life Support ambulance rushed to the scene providing prompt care.

Woodmansee was then taken in critical condition to the nearest emergency department where he was stabilized and was shortly transported to Tripler Army Medical Center.

Among the FFD firefighters who performed this life-saving event were Curtis Yoshikane, Tyler Agtang, Norman Lugo and Stephen Taheny.

Federal firefighters Curtis Yoshikane, Tyler Agtang, Stephen Taheny and Norman Lugo pose for a photo with Britney and Dustin Woodmansee (center) at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Fire Department-Station 10 on Helemano Military Reservation on Nov. 14, 2023. The firefighters, along with Honolulu Emergency Medical Services, performed basic and advanced life support on Dustin Woodmansee after he experienced sudden cardiac arrest in September.

Yoshikane, driver operator and emergency medical technician, established incident command, communicated with the Regional Dispatch Center, coordinated BLS resuscitation efforts, and ventilated the patient.

“As the lieutenant, I was focused on effectively communicating the game plan with my personnel based on

the nature of the call to ensure we were all on the same page,” states Yoshikane.

Agtang, firefighter and emergency medical technician, applied AED, delivered defibrillation, performed manual CPR, and assisted with extrication of Woodmansee for transport.

“The first thing that ran through my mind was making

sure we arrived at the address as quickly and safely as possible,” said Agtang.

Lugo, firefighter and emergency medical technician, performed CPR, ventilated the patient, and assisted with extrication of patient for transport. He shared his thoughts on how it made him feel to save a life.

“After seeing Woodmansee walking and talking so shortly after the event, all I could feel was relief,” states Lugo.

“Knowing that everyone on my team contributed to saving a life made me feel proud and validated that the continuous training we go through on a daily basis paid off.”

Taheny, firefighter and emergency medical technician, inserted BLS airway adjunct, ventilated the patient, and assisted with extrication of patient for transport.

As a first responder himself, Woodmansee understands being in an emergency and shows his gratitude to thank the firefighters and emergency medical technicians for a job well done in saving his life.

“I’m grateful for them as a survivor, the witnesses, firefighters and first responders, you guys executed extremely well. And as a first responder, I’ve worked with a lot of you and I’m grateful for the outcome. I’m just grateful to be here and to the people that helped me survive,” Woodmansee states.

The Navy Region Hawaii Federal Fire Department firefighters’ motto is “Protecting those who defend America” which proves them to be the Department of Defense’s role model for fire and emergency services. Teamwork is what really made the difference among these first responders, not just within the federal department but partnering with Hawaii’s emergency medical technicians to save a life.

JBPHH hosts Navy Warriors in Navy team trials

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and Iolani School hosted the Navy Wounded Warrior Team Trials Feb. 21-March 4 in adaptive sports and competitions. NWW gives the opportunity for sailors and coast guardsmen who are seriously wounded, ill and injured to compete in a variety of adaptive sports that provide reconditioning including archery, cycling, track and field, indoor rowing, powerlifting, shooting, swimming, wheelchair rugby, sitting volleyball and wheelchair basketball.

According to the NWW website, the adaptive sports and recreation program promotes the mental and physical well-being of

wounded, ill and injured service members as part of a larger continuum of care that service members receive through Navy Wounded Warrior.

The top athletes from these trials were selected for a spot on Team Navy to advance and compete against all branches of the military at the Department of Defense Warrior Games at in Orlando, Florida, June 21-30.

Formed in 2010, the DoD Warrior Games introduce wounded, ill, and injured service members and veterans to Paralympic-style sports that showcases the resilient spirit of the athletes and compete in adaptive sports as part of their recovery journeys.

Navy Wounded Warrior hosted the 2024 Navy Team Trials at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Feb. 22-March 4. Sailors and Coast Guardsmen who are seriously wounded, ill, or injured are competed across 11 sports that have been adapted to their individual abilities.

NAVY

This year will be the 14th anniversary of the games, as it highlights members representing the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard and Special Operations Command.

“The Warrior Games celebrates the exceptional triumph over adversity that many of the athletes have been facing. After getting their diagnoses, many of

these service members are told, ‘You can’t do that anymore,’ which is demoralizing,” states Lt. Cmdr.

Teckolar Seals, the Navy Wounded Warrior program manager. “Through the adaptive sports program, they are told, ‘You still can but with some adjustments.’ Adaptive sports rebuild their self-esteem, which ripples into other parts of the service members’ personal and professional lives. They are steadfast and tenacious in a way that should inspire us all to keep going when faced with a challenge that seems unsurmountable.”

NWW organizes the non-medical care of sailors and coast guardsmen and makes available the resources and support to families and caregivers along their path to recovery

and gives them an opportunity to meet other wounded warriors who face similar challenges. Wounded warriors enrolled in NWW are encouraged to include adaptive sports in their recovery plans to build strength and endurance in order to build self-esteem, lower stress levels, and prevent secondary medical conditions from developing.

Sailors and coast guardsmen may self-refer to the NWW program or be referred by a family member, their command leadership, or their medical team. Call NWW at 1-855NAVY-WWP/855-628-9997 or email navywoundedwarrior.fct@navy.mil for more information.

You can also follow them on Facebook at facebook. com/navywoundedwarrior.

STORY BY RAQUEL CLOMA NAVY REGION HAWAII

U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MELVIN GONZALVO

U.S.

PHOTO BY MELVIN GONZALVO

Julia Sorensen Shaw