Senator Daniel K Inouye

Today Hawaii and the entire United States lost a true American hero, Sen. Daniel K. Inoye.  In ways that will go far beyond politics, the State of Hawai‘i, including the military, airline, travel, agricultural, aviation, science and high technology industries all gained much from the senator's tenure in office and his senior ranking on several of the most powerful committees in government.

The senator was a true American hero. He was a World War II veteran, a soldier in the 442nd, "Go For Broke", Regimental Combat Team, the most decorated unit for its size and length of service, in the entire history of the U.S. Military.  He lost his right arm in combat near San Terenzo, Italy and earned the highest military honor the country awards, the Congressional Medal of Honor.  He served in the Hawaii Territorial legislature after the war, and went on to represent Hawaii in Washington, D.C. when statehood came in 1959.  He was the most senior member of the Senate and third in line to the US presidency. 

I was fortunate enough to meet Senator Inouye on several occasions in connection with Hawaii Airports Division projects, including the siting and construction of the new FAA air traffic control tower at Kona, during a dedication for new ARFF vehicles at Kona, and at a briefing I prepared and delivered to him and his staff once during a Hawaii visit. 

Sen. Inouye was often a man of few words, but when he spoke they all had meaning.  When he listened he did so quietly and respectfully and you always knew he missed nothing.  He however, will be missed by many.

"Aloha" to you and RIP, Senator.