In this season of gratitude, we recognize the selfless first responders who run toward danger while others seek safety. We honor these brave souls who carry the weight of our community's hardest moments, yet continue to show up ready to serve with aloha.
“First responders are building something intangible. You can’t really quantify or put your hands to it, but the product is out there. It’s walking all around us every day. You just don’t know that they were saved by firefighters, protected by police officers or pulled out of the ocean by a lifeguard,” says Battalion Chief Springer, marking 22 years with the Hawaiʻi Fire Department.
“Being able to give back to the community where I grew up is huge. I wouldn’t want to do anything else,” shares Fire Captain Manases of the Makalei Fire Station, in his 19th year of service.
“People see the glory of what firefighters do, like saving people, but they don’t see the daily grind. I’m happy we’re becoming more aware and getting these guys the help they need for the mental health aspect that comes with the accumulation of calls over their career,” says Fire Captain Hawthorn of the Keauhou Fire Station, with 18 years on the force.
“When waves start to come in, it's unpredictable. Our job changes with the tides and creates chaos, but our job is to manage that chaos,” says Ocean Safety Captain Alvarez, with 27 years of service.
“The men and women in my unit genuinely care. They’re proactive, engaging, want good relationships and come to work every day enthusiastic,” shares Sergeant Nahale of the Kona Community Policing Section, who has served for 19 years.
"People see the glory of what firefighters do, like saving people, but they don’t see the daily grind."—Fire Captain Hawthorn.
"When waves start to come in, it's unpredictable. Our job changes with the tides and creates chaos, but our job is to manage that chaos."—Ocean Safety Captain Alvarez.