LĪHU‘E, Hawaii (KHON2) -- The Kaua‘i Fire Department honored personnel who rescued 26 individuals and two dogs during the flood event in the overnight hours April 11.
The honored firefighters are with Rescue 3 and the Kapa‘a and Kōloa fire stations.
“These firefighters that we are recognizing today were able to quickly adapt to the hazardous conditions, utilize their previous training, knowledge, and experiences to formulate a solid game plan and execute it safely,” said KFD Deputy Chief Roger Mills. “They performed bravely, and I want to sincerely thank them for attending today – as these men do not do this for recognition, they are dedicated to serving, and they do it exceptionally well.”
According to KFD, crews rescued a family of 10, including seven children, safely transporting them through a flooded roadway in Kapa‘a.
Meanwhile, rescue operations were also conducted on Apana Road in Wailua, at Aloha Place in Kōloa and on Waihohonou Road where they saved a family of seven as well as their pets and relocated two elderly occupants from their flooded home.
“I know all of you first responders present today will tell me you're just doing your job, but after listening to what you all did during the April flood event, you went over and beyond your job requirements,” said Fire Commission Chair Rodney Yama. “So I also thank you for what you did and congratulate you. We honor you today.”
The following firefighters were honored on Tuesday:
Kapa‘a Fire Station
Fire Fighter III Marc Beeby
Fire Fighter III Christopher Simpson
Fire Fighter I Charles Dubocage
Fire Fighter I Paul Haraguchi
Kōloa Fire Station
Fire Captain Aaron Hawthorne
Fire Fighter III Chad Tabuchi
Fire Fighter I Jetsen Wakuta
Fire Fighter I Ryan Allen
Firefighter III Marc Beeby
Rescue 3
Fire Captain Francisco Garcia
Fire Fighter III Maui Kjeldsen
Fire Fighter Il Byron Costa
Fire Fighter I Frederick Caoagas