LIHU‘E — A dozen local first responders were promoted during a special ceremony held by the Kaua‘i Fire Department and Ocean Safety Bureau on Friday at the Lihu‘e Civic Center Mo‘ikeha Building rotunda.
The ceremony honored seven fire department and five Ocean Safety Bureau members before family, friends, dignitaries and supporters.
“We thank all of you who accepted the challenge to contribute to the future success of the Kaua‘i Fire Department and Ocean Safety Bureau,” said Fire Chief Michael Gibson in a statement.
“Remember who you are, remember what this department stands for, and remember the people who came before you and ensure that you honor them as well.”
The following is a list of the promoted KFD members and their new ranks:
Deputy Chief Roger Mills, Battalion Chief Reid Tanita, Fire Captain Mathew Ballard, Fire Captain Michael Imai Karratti, Fire Captain Raymond Veeck, Firefighter III Cadin Crane and Firefighter II Shane Pope.
The following is a list of the promoted OSB employees and their new ranks:
Ocean Safety Officer I Micah Hanano, Ocean Safety Officer I Sierra “Lei” Deguchi, Ocean Safety Officer I Ian Baker, Ocean Safety Officer I Kenui Topp and Ocean Safety Officer I Asher Encinas.
“Mahalo to the Kaua‘i Fire Department, Ocean Safety Bureau, and most importantly, the support of your families and friends. To our new first responders, thank you for being willing to protect our most precious resource, the residents and visitors of Kaua‘i,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami in a statement.
“To everyone promoted today, the hard work, sacrifice and dedication your family members have given you so you can be successful are priceless. The people of Kaua‘i, County of Kaua‘i, and myself are very thankful,” the mayor said.
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Wyatt Haupt Jr., editor, can be reached at 808-245-0457 or whaupt@thegardenisland.com.
