HAWAII AIR NATIONAL GUARD ANNOUNCES OUTSTANDING PERFORMERS FOR 2009
The Hawaii Air National Guard (HIANG) today announced the recipients of its annual “Launa Ole” awards. The Launa Ole (meanings include: unequalled, superior) awards are for outstanding performance for individuals and teams over the past year.
For Immediate Release: April 5, 2009
HAWAII AIR NATIONAL GUARD ANNOUNCES OUTSTANDING PERFORMERS FOR 2009
WHEN: Sunday, April 5, 2:00 p.m.
WHAT: Launa Ole Awards for 2009
WHO: Members of the Hawaii Air National Guard (HIANG)
WHERE: Hickam Air Force Base
The Hawaii Air National Guard (HIANG) today announced the recipients of its annual “Launa Ole” awards. The Launa Ole (meanings include: unequalled, superior) awards are for outstanding performance for individuals and teams over the past year. The competition to be named the most outstanding airman or officer in each category is very tough, as the HIANG is the most diverse Air National Guard in the nation in terms of roles and missions. There are approximately 2,500 officers and airmen in the HIANG spread over the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the Big Island. There are three flying units (F-15s, KC-135s and C-17s) under the 154th Wing, one of the largest wings in the Total Force. Other HIANG units include the 201st Combat Communications Group, the 109th Air Operations Group and the 199th Weather Flight. The 154th Wing received and over-all “excellent” rating during its recent Operational Readiness Inspection.
The winners of the 2009 Launa Ole awards are:
SrA. Ryan Yung, 154th Wing Financial Management, Traditional Airman of the Year
SrA. Kristen Kaikala, 199th Fighter Squadron, Full-time Airman of the Year
TSgt. Robert Kim, 154th Security Forces Squadron, Traditional NCO of the Year
TSgt. Douglas Motonaga, 154th Mission Support Flight, Full-time NCO of the Year
MSgt. Damon Duhaylonsod, 154 Operations Support Flight, Traditional Senior NCO of the Year
SMSgt. Terry Yonamine, 154th Communications Flight, Full-time Senior NCO of the Year
MSgt. Ramon Quizon, 154th Wing HQ, First Sergeant of the Year
1st Lt. Taryn Chung, 154th Operations Support Flight, Outstanding Traditional Company Grade Officer of the Year
1st Lt. Glen Hayase, 154th Operations Support Flight, Outstanding Full-time Company Grade Officer of the Year
Maj. Michael Blake, 154th Operations Support Flight, Outstanding Traditional Field Grade Officer of the Year
Lt. Col. Lawrence Otto, 199th Fighter Squadron, Outstanding Full-time Field Grade Officer of the Year
154th Security Forces Squadron, Outstanding Unit of the Year
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Photos of award winners will be furnished upon request.
For more information, contact:
Lt. Col. Charles Anthony
Public Affairs Officer
Office: (808) 733-4258
