21ST ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY SERVICE AT THE WAIKIKI WAR MEMORIAL NATATORIUM

Sunday, May 24, 10 a.m.
“Kupa’a i ke kuleana, Ka ‘ihi, Ka mahalo, a me ke kupili”
Committed to Responsibility, Respect, Reverence and Reason

Since 1989, the Friends of the Natatorium have sponsored this annual Memorial Day Weekend ceremony in memory of Hawaii’s beloved lost from all American wars and in honor of the state’s military veterans. This highly visual ceremony at the Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium annually attracts hundreds to the state’s official memorial to the 101 from Hawaii who died in World War I. The ceremony is open to all and covered seating will be available.

The ceremony includes both somber and joyful moments, celebrating the sacrifice of our soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines and coast guards and the triumph of the freedom and democratic values they fought to defend. This year’s event will include a keynote speech by Brig. Gen. Gary Hara (chief of staff of the Hawaii Army National Guard) and remarks by former congressman and current congressional candidate Ed Case and former councilman and current congressional candidate John Henry Felix.

Also featured will be the traditional bugle call “Taps” and a 21-gun salute. Performances include patriotic music from the Royal Hawaiian Band and Hawaiian songs and hula from Hula Halau Olana, The Prince Kuhio Civic Club Chorale and soloist, Nalani Olds.


The Friends of the Natatorium is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and restoration of the Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium, the state’s official memorial to those from Hawaii who died in the cause of freedom in World War I.