Salute to the Troops

Hawaii Paso Finos hosted a wounded soldier and his wife for an extended vacation in Kohala this past November 11th.  Sgt. Bill Carlson, and his wife Kelly, were given a five night stay at the luxurious Hawaii Island Retreat in Kapaau, an Alamo rental car, and all meals courtesy of our generous local restauranteurs, all part of Operation Vacation, directed by Joe Vitorino.  The Carlsons came out to ride our horses one day, and also took the BIEA zipline tour.  The Sergeant, along with a public affairs team from Fort Shafter, Oahu, were also guest speakers at the annual Kohala National Guard Veterans Day ceremony, and were guests of honor at our ranch the next day for a special "Salute to the Troops" luncheon and concert.  The day began with a blessing of the troops led by Kaniela Akaka, Jr., followed by the National Anthem sung by Ms. Pat Coughlin, music by local guitarist David Gomes, singer and ukulele player Joey Bradley, Matthew and Rosalind Kupukaa, and master of ceremony and renowned musician, Rodney Cazimero.  The Operation Vacation Hawaii experience was videotaped and written up by Sgt. Galen Lowers and Sgt. Jesse Untalan in the Hawaii Army Weekly newspaper and online service. Previous to the Carlson's visit, Sgt. Jeremiah Walker and his family were also treated to a free Kohala Vacation in August. The family was able to attend the annual Lion's Club Luau, and greatly appreciated the local hospitality shown to them during their stay.  They loved exploring Kohala's great outdoor adventures, including, hiking, ziplining and horseback riding.   To read more about the families hosted by Operation Vacaton Hawaii, see these articles:  Operation Vacation, Hawaii Army Weekly ; West Hawaii Today ; Giving Back to Those Who Serve; KM News Veterans Day

CARLSON VACATION PHOTOS

WALKER VACATION PHOTOS

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