2011 Hawaii Medal of Honor

House and Senate members joined together in a somber moment today to recognize and honor our military service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The was marked by the presence of family members who lost their loved ones, including parents, spouses, and children. Senate President Shan S. Tsutsui offered these remarks to honor our fallen heroes:

Today, we gather so that we can honor and remember our fallen heroes, their families and friends.

As we go about with our busy everyday lives, whether it’s going to work, attending a baby luau, sporting events on the weekend, or even church on Sundays, it is easy to forget that there is a war going on, and that in other parts of the world combat in the streets is an all day and everyday occurrence for both civilians and soldiers. Through the distance, we are sometimes able to disassociate ourselves from the reality that our brave soldiers experience on a daily basis and from the ensuing heartache that is felt by their loved ones who long for their safe return home.

The Hawaii Medal of Honor is awarded on behalf of the people of Hawaii to soldiers who are connected to these islands and are a part of our ohana, our family, forever. Today, I am truly privileged and profoundly humbled to take part in this ceremony to honor those who have sacrificed their lives in defense of our nation and its freedoms.

No one can take the place of a lost loved one. Nothing can be said to fill the void that is left in the hearts and lives of those who are left behind. In many ways, today’s events bring up mixed emotions, . . . great sorrow, for those who have fallen, . . . and also the great pride in the bravery, dedication and commitment these soldiers possessed and demonstrated in their lives.

These individuals assumed their duties with the understanding of the potential danger they would face. In light of that, they still chose to dedicate themselves to a life of service to our country. Their courage, honor, and commitment, have forged an enduring legacy as common individuals demonstrating uncommon valor.

Let us pledge to each other that these brave soldiers that have fallen will not be in vain. Let us never forget the magnitude of their sacrifices and remain ever grateful. For the debt we owe can never be repaid, but through our continued commitment to the freedoms and ideals that define our country may we honor their memories.

Words cannot adequately express the appreciation and gratitude that the people of Hawaii have for the courageous members of our military, who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

To our fallen soldiers and their families and friends, thank you for your many sacrifices. Our thoughts and prayers remain with you all. You will be remembered always with honor and respect.

Thank you and Mahalo to everyone here today and may god continue to bless us all.

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HAWAII MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS

United States Army Specialist Toby R. Olsen

United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Timothy J. Poole Jr.

United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Noah M. Pier

United States Army Private First Class JR Salvacion

United States Army Private First Class Raymond N. Pacleb

United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Curtis M. Swenson

United States Marine Corps Private First Class Jake W. Suter

United States Marine Corps Corporal Joe L. Wrightsman

United States Army First Lieutenant Michael L. Runyan

United States Army Sergeant Jamal M. Rhett

United States Army Staff Sergeant Philip C. Jenkins

United States Army Private First Class James F. McClamrock

United States Marine Corps First Lieutenant Scott J. Fleming

United States Army Sergeant Aracely Gonzalez O’Malley

United States Army Sergeant David J. Luff Jr.

United States Marine Corps Sergeant Matthew T. Abbate

United States Army Corporal Sean M. Collins