Kaua’i Bravery Celebrated as Local Heroes Honored for Vital Role in Summer Wildfire Response

The courageous actions of Kaua‘i’s local heroes fighting the wildfires this past summer earned them well-earned recognition, solidifying their roles as community defenders and demonstrating interagency collaboration. During a recent meeting of the Fire Commission, the Kaua‘i Fire Department recognized members of the Department of Public Works and the employees of Gay & Robinson, Inc. for their heroic response to the Hanap p -Kaumakani and K ke e wildfires. Their actions were crucial in controlling the fires and ensuring the safety of the community.

Kaua’i Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson praised the bravery and dedication of these teams as they came together not only to combat the fires but also to prevent potentially devastating losses for numerous residents, according to a press release from Kaua’i County. Gibson also highlighted the crucial intervention these teams provided during the fires on July 15, 2024. At the Fire Commission meeting, Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami expressed his sincere gratitude, noting that he had seen a clear sense of purpose among individuals who went above and beyond their regular responsibilities to protect their neighborhood.

Pride was a common emotion during the honor, with Rodney Yama, chair of the Kaua i Fire Commission, highlighting the firefighters’ commitment to going above and beyond their call of duty. Numerous homes and lives were spared from the destructive course of the wildfire because to this incredible effort. In her humble acknowledgement of the distinction, Puni Waialeale of Gay & Robinson emphasized the sense of ‘kuleana,’ or responsibility, that her coworkers had for the environment in which they lived and worked. She also thanked the National Guard, which had been deployed under Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, and the Kaua i Emergency Management Agency, among other supportive organizations.

Other agencies such as KEMA, the Kauai Police Department (KPD), the State of Hawaii Department of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW), and the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) were also recognized for their contributions, further solidifying the spirit of cooperation that ultimately prevailed over the fires. KPD Deputy Chief Mark Ozaki was present to praise their partners for their courage, calling them the County of Kaua‘i’s real superheroes.

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