The Hawaii Police Department is committed to preserving the spirit of aloha. Beginning Monday, the public is invited to salute the officers who serve and protect Big Island communities during Police Week events planned in Hilo and Kona through May
The Hawaii Police Department is committed to preserving the spirit of aloha. Beginning Monday, the public is invited to salute the officers who serve and protect Big Island communities during Police Week events planned in Hilo and Kona through May 20.
Police Week ceremonies will take place at 10 a.m. Monday at the Hilo police station and 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Kona police station. Both ceremonies include pre-event entertainment and a tribute to Hawaii County police officers who gave their lives in the line of duty.
Police will pay tribute to four fallen officers: Manuel Cadinha, who died in 1918; William “Red” Oili, who died in 1936; Ronald “Shige” Jitchaku, who died in 1990; and Kenneth Keliipio, who died in 1997.
During this year’s Hilo event, there will be a dedication ceremony for the new Police Memorial, “Ka Malu Aloha,” which was erected adjacent to the East Hawaii Detention Facility.
In a statement from the office of Police Chief Harry S. Kubojiri, “The wall will stand forever, in remembrance of these fallen heroes, who gave the ultimate sacrifice while protecting and serving the residents of the County of Hawaii.”
The public also is invited to tour the Hilo police station at 9 a.m. or 1 p.m. Tuesday. Call Officer Jason Grouns at 961-3066 to schedule an appointment.
