Hawaii’s military play a key role in supporting the growth of our state and in the welfare of our citizens. With over 6.8 billion in spending, resulting in direct and indirect impacts totaling $10.1 billion to Hawaii’s economy in 2008, defense and other federal expenditures represent the state’s second major source of revenues and a leading stimulator for sustaining our workforce.

The military’s presence has accounted for more than 92, 000 jobs and 6.4 billion in household earnings. Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard remains the largest industrial employer in Hawaii.

Today, the defense industry is viewed as Hawaii’s most stable source of revenues and has served as the economy’s critical buffer in times of recession.

Additionally, Hawaii’s armed forces support our community through many other activities such as disaster coordination and assistance, air and sea search and rescue, and assistance programs with our police and fire departments. For example, during 2008 Hawaii’s Coast Guard conducted more than 306 search and rescue missions, saved 276 lives and $9.6 million in property.

Equally important is the active involvement and community outreach our servicemen and women provide. Each year, Hawaii’s service members from the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and National Guard, volunteer thousands of hours to support local programs such as Special Olympics, Toys for Tots, The Great Aloha Run, Adopt-A-School programs and many other vital community projects. 

Hawaii’s military is an integral part of the fabric of our community.  It is for this reason, The Chamber through its Military Affairs Department, continues to maintain strong bonds between the military, business, and civilian communities.

In May, we will celebrate the 25th Anniversary of The Chamber’s Hawaii Military Appreciation Month. Business and community leaders, our government officials and Hawaii’s citizens will join together with The Chamber to honor Hawaii’s military and thank them for their service and the sacrifices they have made in the defense of our nation. Numerous activities will be held throughout the month to recognize their contributions and commemorate the important role they have played for two and half decades within our community.

On May 18th, The Chamber will hold its 25th Annual Military Recognition Luncheon to welcome home our soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Additionally we will present the “Outstanding Community Service” awards to those service members who went beyond to actively support community projects and programs.

I encourage all of you to join us at this event and participate in the activities that will take place in May in appreciation of our military ohana.