KAILUA-KONA — With the county budget tightening because of recent natural disasters, the Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation once again came to the rescue with a $45,233.74 donation to refurbish the Radon Rescue Boat for Rescue 7 at the Kailua-Kona Fire Station.
The boat was last refurbished about 10 years ago, but with consistent use it was long overdue for an overhaul.
Steve Riddle of Riddle Boatworks custom made vital additions to the boat, including a fiberglass cab and seats, new electronics, radar, depth sounder, radios, swim step and a heavy duty wrap-around railing with tow bits.
Fire rescue specialist Dusty Frechette said the boat previously had a soft canopy, causing equipment and personnel to get soaked in rough seas. The fiberglass cab will protect the new electronics and stowed equipment, as well as provide shelter for rescue personnel. A water-level swim step the length of the stern will make boarding from the water easier for rescuers and those being rescued.
Hawaii Fire Department Battalion Chief Gerald Kosaki expressed his gratitude to the foundation at Saturday’s gifting ceremony. He said the refurbished boat will make it much safer for rescue personnel on long days, going long distances.
“We couldn’t do what we do without the equipment,” Kosaki said. “We couldn’t have done it the last 21 years without the Sayres donating over $3 million. All the equipment is keeping us safe and allowing us to do our job.”
Laura Mallery-Sayre emphasized community support for firefighters.
“They realize what you do and are grateful you are here,” she said, citing recent fires and rescues that have pushed the department to the limits.
As for future items on the department’s wish list, Kosaki expressed the need for more personal watercraft used in ocean rescues, specifically for Kahaluu and Punaluu beaches.
“They have really made a difference at Hapuna and Richardson,” he said, referring to the watercraft purchased by the county in 2015. He went on to say they fill the gap between ocean safety and rescue, providing faster response, which translates to better outcomes.
With the 21st annual Daniel R. Sayre Foundation fundraiser and awards dinner coming up Saturday at The Fairmont Orchid on the Kohala coast, community generosity could make that dream come true.
“The foundation is the community,” said co-founder Dr. Frank Sayre.
Email Laura Ruminski at lruminski@westhawaiitoday.com.
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Reserve your tickets
The 21th annual Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation Awards Dinner and Fundraiser begins at 4:30 p.m. Saturday (Sept. 1) at The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii on the Kohala coast. The gala event includes silent and live auctions, a gourmet buffet dinner and live music by Vizion 20/20. Tickets are $114 for adults, $58 for children 12 and younger. Patrons also can choose to sponsor a dinner for a firefighter and/or spouse for $100 per person. Registration is available online at DanielSayreFoundation.net.