Honoring the service, sacrifice, and contributions of those who served our nation.
Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center (LMPSC), a program of Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi, welcomed veterans, community leaders, performers, and supporters for a special Veterans Day Celebration honoring the men and women who have served our country.
The morning began with pre-program music by the 111th Army Band Waihona Winds, setting a patriotic tone for the celebration. Veterans and guests joined in the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Veteran Richard Tada, followed by a performance of “God Bless America” and “Hawaiʻi Ponoʻi” by Veteran Frank Toma and Mona Bernardo.
Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi President and CEO Tina Andrade shared introductory remarks, recognizing the importance of honoring veterans and acknowledging their service and contributions to our community.
The celebration also featured remarks from Lt. Colonel John P. Alamodin, Director of the State of Hawaiʻi Office of Veterans Services, who recognized the importance of supporting and remembering those who have served.
Guests enjoyed special performances throughout the morning, including Victor’s Kapakahi Group performing “Nakoalele,” written by Hiroshi Kato, and additional music by the 111th Army Band Waihona Winds. The Royal Hawaiian Band Glee Club provided entertainment during lunch.
A special presentation of gifts and lei recognized the veterans in attendance, offering a heartfelt expression of gratitude for their service. The presentation was coordinated by Iris Hiramoto, LMPSC Membership Specialist, with support from community leaders and center representatives.
Following a prayer by Veteran Arlene Gray, guests gathered for lunch prepared by Uncle Glenn’s Hawaiian Food, providing an opportunity to share fellowship and celebrate the veterans who continue to be an important part of the Lanakila community.
The celebration was made possible through the generosity and support of the Honolulu Elks Lodge, the event sponsor, along with Starbucks, community partners, performers, volunteers, and the Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center staff.
A special presentation of gifts and lei recognized the veterans in attendance, offering a heartfelt expression of gratitude for their service. The presentation was coordinated by Iris Hiramoto, LMPSC Membership Specialist, with support from community leaders and center representatives.
Following a prayer by Veteran Arlene Gray, guests gathered for lunch prepared by Uncle Glenn’s Hawaiian Food, providing an opportunity to share fellowship and celebrate the veterans who continue to be an important part of the Lanakila community.
The celebration was made possible through the generosity and support of the Honolulu Elks Lodge, the event sponsor, along with Starbucks, community partners, performers, volunteers, and the Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center staff.
A Community That Remembers
Veterans Day is an opportunity to recognize the courage, dedication, and sacrifices of those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. At Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center, the celebration was also a reminder of the importance of bringing generations and community members together to express gratitude and ensure our veterans know they are appreciated.
Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi and Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center extend their heartfelt mahalo to all veterans for their service, and to everyone who helped make this celebration meaningful and memorable.
Mahalo to our event sponsor, performers, community partners, volunteers, and supporters for making this special day possible.
