Fifth-graders from Na Wai Ola Public Charter School in Mountain View were among those who joined the Hawaii Police Department in celebrating Police Week on Monday at the Hilo police station.
Fifth-graders from Na Wai Ola Public Charter School in Mountain View were among those who joined the Hawaii Police Department in celebrating Police Week on Monday at the Hilo police station.
A 21-gun salute, “Taps” and a candle-lighting ceremony were part of the tribute to the four Hawaii Police Department officers killed in the line of duty: Manuel Cadinha (1918), William “Red” Oili (1936), Ronald “Shige” Jitchaku (1990) and Kenneth Keliipio (1997).
Mayor Billy Kenoi honored the fallen officers and thanked current officers for their service.
“Everybody’s job in this county is much easier because of all your courage, all your service, all your aloha. So, mahalo,” he said.
Chief Harry Kubojiri thanked the officers for their “courage, dedication and perseverance” in protecting the island’s citizens.
“I am honored, proud and privileged to serve beside each and every one of you,” he said.
The mayor and chief also commended Momi Cazimero, the sister of Ronald “Shige” Jitchaku, for her years of work toward erecting a memorial for the department’s fallen officers. Following the ceremony, a blessing was hosted on a grassy area fronting Hualalai Street, the site of the future memorial, which is expected to be completed by Police Week 2016.
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as Police Week. Another Police Week ceremony is at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Kona police station. The public is invited.