Vets show appreciation for 100-year-old hotel always playing host

DAV Kona Chapter 7 Commander Greg Alip, right, and Hawaii State Commander Tony Brigoli present Dwight Manago, center, an appreciation plaque in honor of Manago Hotel’s 100th Anniversary and 67 years of hosting the veterans organization’s monthly meetings. (Laura Ruminski/West Hawaii Today)
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CAPTAIN COOK — In 1955 a group of wounded World War II veterans from the famed 100th Battalion 442 Infantry Regimental Combat Team formed the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Kona Chapter 7 and began holding monthly meetings at Manago Hotel in Captain Cook.

On Wednesday evening, the DAV expressed its appreciation, presenting a plaque to proprietor Dwight Manago for the hotel’s 100th anniversary.

“It is our honor to have you here with the great service you have given our country. We are very honored,” said Manago.

DAV Kona Chapter 7, along with Kona American Legion Post 20 and Kona Korean War Veterans Association provide military honors for deceased veterans including a short military service, 21-gun salute, playing of taps and presentation of the American flag to the family at the West Hawaii Veterans Cemetery.

The organization also provides transportation for veterans who must meet medical appointments, and participates in Veterans Day and Memorial Day ceremonies at the cemetery.