Two women recently were celebrated at Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home after turning 101 years old.
Yachiyo Hamada and Jeanette Rhamsey turned 101 and were honored by their fellow residents, families, staff and friends from the community.
The ladies were presented with certificates by Mayor Mitch Roth and a special hula performance by the Hula Sisters. The celebration ended with the singing of “Happy Birthday” and a cake donated by the members of the VFW Auxiliary Post 3830.
Hamada turned 101 on Saturday, March 11, and exemplifies a life of faith and service as a longtime member of Hilo Hongwanji Mission and put in 30 years of service at Ben Franklin Crafts.
Hamada lives by her own words of wisdom: “Take good care of yourself so you can be of help to others; exercise and stay healthy; be thankful and happy; and live an honest life.”
Rhamsey turned 101 on Sunday, March 19, and continues to bring joy to her community through her stories. She earned her Silver Wings in the Women’s Air Force Service Pilots Program by flying military aircraft in noncombat roles during World War II.
Rhamsey also was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2010 in recognition of her pioneering military service, exemplary record, and revolutionary reform in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Over her life, Rhamsey has travelled the world as a military wife and mother, followed by a career in social work. She also spent time in India in spiritual study.