KAILUA-KONA — Once a year, Hawaii County police officers take a moment to remember the brothers they’ve lost in the line of duty.
As National Police Week begins, the department hopes community members will join the ceremonies in Hilo and Kona to recognize these officers who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
“It’s so often a thankless job safeguarding the community,” said Hawaii Police Department Sgt. Jason Grouns. “Officers, day-to-day, see things no one would want to see.”
During Police Week, the department will pay tribute to five Hawaii Police Department officers who have fallen in the line of duty over the years. Officer Manuel Cadinha gave his life in 1918; Officer William “Red” Oili in 1936; Officer Ronald “Shige” Jitchaku fell in 1990; and Officer Kenneth Keliipio died in 1997. A National Park Service officer, Park Ranger Steve Makuakane-Jarrell, also gave his life in 1999.
Grouns encouraged everyone to attend the ceremonies.
“It’s is a way to give back and say thank you for what you do,” he said.
The ceremonies include a 21-gun salute and the playing of taps.
“It’s good to get that taste of reality,” Grouns said. “We’re somewhat separated from the mainland but that violence could happen here.”
Sgt. Thomas Koyanagi has been with department for nearly 17 years.
“I think a lot of people think it’s just a job, but it’s a sacrifice,” Koyanagi said. “Even when we’re off duty, we’re required to curb crime.”
Koyanagi has been injured on the job twice: once when his hand was broken breaking up a fight and another when he dislocated his pinky finger during a DUI traffic stop.
Koyanagi thinks Police Week gives the public a better feel that officers are human, too.
“And if there are improvements we can do, public input is always great,” he said.
The Police Week ceremony in Hilo will take place at 10 a.m. today at the Hilo Police Station, 349 Kapiolani St.
On Tuesday, a ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. at the Kealakehe Police Station, 74-611 Hale Makai Place.
Both events include pre-ceremony entertainment and a tribute to the fallen Hawaii County officers.