Hawaii Island
Live! 
  Veterans Day Parade

(Registered Organizations As of 6 Nov 2025) Entry Name and Description (Line up may change slightly parade day)

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2025 Parade Announcer NARRATIVE

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1. Hawaii Police Department escort

Escorting today’s parade is the Hawai‘i Police Department. Their Special Duty Officers work hard to keep our community and this celebration safe. Mahalo to our officers for protecting and serving with dedication and aloha!

 

2. “Aloha Thunder” Hawaii Island Motorcycles

Feel the rumble! “Aloha Thunder” brings together riders from across Hawai‘i Island to honor our Veterans and start our parade right. Led today by Marine Veteran Terry Bachelor, they love to hand out flags, smiles, and patriotic pride wherever they roll. Let’s wave and salute these riders of freedom!

 

3. US Marine Corps Recruiting Command (Carry Parade banner)

Here come the few, the proud — the Marines! Carrying our Overall Parade Banner, these newly minted members of the US Marine Corps represent a legacy of Honor, Courage, and Commitment since 1775. When duty calls, they answer. Let’s salute our Marines — Semper Fi!

 

4. Civil Air Patrol (Color Guard)

Presenting the colors of the United States, the State of Hawai‘i, and the America250 flag — marking our nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary —is the Civil Air Patrol’s Lyman Field Squadron Color Guard. These symbols remind us of freedom’s cost, our need for continuing unity as Americans, and to honor those who serve. Please stand and show your respect as the colors pass.

 

5. Hawaii County Band (Music)

Founded in 1883, the Hawai‘i County Band has been sharing music and pride for 142 years — the second-oldest band in the state! Under Director Paul Arceo, they bring rhythm and joy across the island with monthly concerts, both in Hilo and Kailua-Kona. Let’s give them a big hand for keeping this tradition alive and helping us “celebrate service” in style!

 

6. Island of Hawaii, OVS – Office of Veterans Services

Here comes the Office of Veterans Services — connecting Hawai‘i Island Veterans and families with the State and Federal benefits they’ve earned. Led by Kelcie Figueira and her OVS team, they advocate with heart and honor to help all Veterans receive the support they deserve. Let’s give her a big mahalo!

 

7. State Senator Lorraine R. Inouye [Vehicle]

Senator Lorraine R. Inouye proudly represents Senate District 1 (Hilo, Paukaa, Papaikou and Pepeekeo) and shared this “I am honored to be here today to be a part of this well-deserved Veterans parade to recognize and honor our veterans. Mahalo nui for your commitment, dedication and service you gave for our beautiful country, the United States of America.

 

8. State Senator Joy San Buenaventura

State Senator Joy San Buenaventura represents District 2, comprising Puna. As a legislator, Senator San Buenaventura supported Filipino veteran burial rights and sponsored legislation establishing a monument honoring WWII veterans of Filipino ancestry. Her brother and in-laws are veterans and she is humbled by the valor, courage, and selflessness of all veterans

 

9. State and County Elected Officials (Past & Present) 

Let’s show some aloha to our elected leaders — past and present — who’ve served our island and state with heart. Wave and cheer as they pass by. Thank them for the countless hours they’ve given to our community.

 

10. Old School Cruzas (Vet Supporters) 3 Vehicles

US Army Iraq War Veteran Randall Laronal  enjoys hanging out with friends who share a love of classic cars. Randall is driving his 1970 Chevy Nova Super Sport. Engines revving, his Cruising Veteran Supporters with us today are: (1)James Franco driving a red 1946 Willys Jeep Jeep and (2) Veny Yagin driving his 2000 Chevy Corvette.

 

11. Veterans Advisory Council (Teal Thunderbird)

The Veterans Advisory Committee guides county leaders on island-wide veteran matters. Chaired by Vietnam Veteran Michael Doolittle – he’s the one driving his teal Thunderbird today. He, his Vice-Chair Marcia Brinkley, along with today’s parade chair Colonel Deb Lewis, are just a few of this committee’s caring members from around the island who actively support our veterans in many ways. Each one embodies service, leadership, and aloha for all Veterans!

 

12. Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home (Van)

Please welcome the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home! Our island’s post-acute care and rehabilitation service provider specifically designed to serve the special needs of veterans. Each day they honor the brave men and women who have served our nation with courage and Aloha. They remind us that caring for our heroes is a duty of the heart. 20 enthusiastic members from the home are in the parade or watching from the official tents along Kamehameha Avenue, supported by the home’s staff who make it all possible. Mahalo to the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home!

 

13. Hawaii Carriage Driving Society (Karen Fitzgerald- horse) [Carriage]

Step back in time with Karen Fitzgerald, member of the Hawai‘i Carriage Driving Society that was founded in 2013 — the only carriage driving club in the islands! They host fun days, clinics, and elegant shows while keeping Hawai‘i’s equestrian traditions alive, and open to any like-minded people. Let’s give them a cheer for bringing classic beauty to today’s parade!

 

14. Horse Mounted Unit – Pū‘u Moi Riders [Horse Unit]

The next group is sure to make you smile. Here come the Pū‘u Moi Riders! From keiki to kupuna, Pū‘u Moi Riders range in age from five to eighty-six, proudly wear the red, white, and blue to honor America. This spirited group of riders shares their pride in Hawai‘i, their love of horses and for our Veterans as they celebrate service today.

 

15. Civil Air Patrol (near CAP Color Guard)

Please welcome the Lyman Field Composite Squadron of Hilo, Civil Air Patrol — the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. These dedicated volunteers serve through emergency response, youth leadership, and aerospace education. Guided by integrity, service, excellence, and respect, they truly are “Volunteers Serving America’s Communities, Saving Lives, and Shaping Futures.”

 

16. America250 12′ Banner (Carried by UH Hilo Basketball Team)

This banner, sponsored by the Hawai‘i America250 Commission, reminds us that on July 4, 2026, our nation marks 250 years of independence. Communities across Hawai‘i will reflect, celebrate, and honor our Veterans and ancestors shared story, grounded in local culture and the Spirit of Aloha in the coming months. Mahalo to the UH Hilo Basketball Team for carrying this special banner!

 

17. Hawai‘i Loa Chapter – Daughters of the American Revolution [Truck]

Here comes the Hawai‘i Loa Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution — descendants of America’s first Veterans! Through patriotism, education, and preservation, they keep our history alive and honor those who serve today. They’ve partnered with the Vietnam War 50th Commemoration, the Wall That Heals, and now the America250 commemoration. Let’s thank them for their devotion to country and community.

 

18. Grand Marshal Banner – UH Hilo Basketball Team (Carrying)

The UH Hilo Men’s Basketball Team carries our Grand Marshal Banner with Vulcan pride—celebrating Veterans, service, and aloha! It’s extra special because our Grand Marshal is a lifelong Vulcan fan and former UH Hilo Relations Director, whose dedication to our island and university continues to inspire. Go Vulcans!!!

 

19. Grand Marshal – Jerry Chang [Slingshot]

Let’s give a big cheer for our Grand Marshal Jerry Chang! In addition to being a beloved UH Hilo Vulcan fan and former University Relations Director, Jerry also spent 24 years as a member of Hawaii’s House of Representatives. Jerry joined the military in the 60’s and became a special Forces medic. Since then he’s spent decades lifting our students and community. Today we celebrate his heart for service and his aloha for Hilo and our Veterans!

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20. VFW Post 3875 / DAV Chapter 6 [Float – Truck & Trailer]

Wave your flags for the Veterans of Foreign Wars/ VFW Post 3875 & Auxiliary, and also Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Hilo Chapter 6 members! These organizations stand shoulder to shoulder for Veterans and their families — from combat service to care and community. They work hard to ensure that vets and their families have access to the full range of benefits available to them. Their message is clear: Every Veteran Counts! Let’s thank them for a lifetime of service.

 

21. Waiākea High School Warrior Band & Color Guard [MUSIC]

Let’s hear it for the Waiākea High School Warrior Band and Color Guard! Led by Drum Major Minako Matsui, they will perform “America on Parade” to honor our Veterans and thank you for your service to our country. Proud Warriors with music that inspires us all — mahalo for sharing your talent and aloha!

 

22. Recycling with Sethie [He is walking w/wagon on side of units at his pace]

Let's make some noise to cheer on Hi5(High Five) Recycle with Sethie Linus. For over a decade, Sethie Linus has been rolling through town, cleaning up our island and teaching us all to care for the ‘āina. One person, one wagon, one big heart — let’s thank Sethie for keeping Hawai‘i Island beautiful!

 

23. American Legion Post 3 [Truck with Trailer]

Since 1919, American Legion Post 3 Hilo has stood tall for our veterans, families, and freedom. Guided by four pillars — security, service, family, and patriotism — they carry on over a century of aloha and duty. Let’s give a mahalo to Commander Lawrence Nahalea Sr., District Commander Antonio Gaspar, and the Post 3 ‘ohana!

 

24. Together With Veterans (TWV Hawai‘i) [near American Legion 3]

Together With Veterans Hawai‘i provides free “Coffee With Veterans,” Any is Too Many for Veteran Suicide-prevention awareness, and a Battle Buddy Network that connects veterans through outdoor activities, arts, and community outreach. They remind us that no veteran stands alone. Mahalo for caring for those who served!

 

25. Hilo Vet Center [Vehicle]

The Hilo Vet Center provides Community programs and confidential Readjust counseling for Veterans. They’ve opened up eligibility. You can call 808-969-3833 to learn more about RCS Counseling and joining group activities such as fishing and art. All Veterans, be sure to register at the Hilo Vet Center, so they can help you connect to the support you need. Let’s all thank them for supporting our island’s Veterans with such care and aloha!

 

26. VA Pacific Islands Health Care System [3 Vehicles]

A huge mahalo to the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System for celebrating Veterans Day with us. They’re here to salute our Veterans and their families. The VA Pacific Islands Health Care System's Hilo Clinic serves nearly 11,000 Veterans in Hawaii County, offering comprehensive healthcare services. This dedicated team provides personalized care, addressing Veterans' unique health challenges and needs. Join them in expressing gratitude and respect for our Veterans and welcoming the Hilo VA Clinic.

 

27. American Legion Post 4 Kohala [Vehicle]

The American Legion has been supporting veterans and active duty service members since 1919. Anyone who has served on active duty since World War II is eligible to join. The Post #4 Flag Bearer is proudly flying a special flag for today’s Parade —the America250 Flag. It is carried as a heartfelt tribute to our nation’s forthcoming 250th Anniversary on July 4, 2026, celebrating our rich history and shared values."

 

28. Ho‘ōla Farms [Vehicle]

Here comes Ho‘ōla Farms — a non-profit in Hilo growing food, hope, and healing! Their programs teach Veterans and families to farm, nourish communities, and strengthen Hawai‘i’s food system. Through “Veggies for Veterans,” they feed both body and spirit, and recently provided free produce to 90 Hilo Veterans. Mahalo to Ho‘ōla Farms for cultivating aloha! Learn more at hoolafarms.org

 

29. East Hawai‘i Rotary Clubs

Let’s cheer our East Hawai‘i Four Rotary Clubs! The clubs represented today are from Hilo, South Hilo and Hilo Bay. Rotarians serve locally and globally as “People of Action.” Through projects and grants, they bring clean water, education, and hope to millions. Mahalo to Rotary for living “Service Above Self.”

 

30. Red Ribbon Week Campaign

October 23-31 means Red Ribbon Week! It’s the longest serving drug prevention organization in America. In 1985, parents and youth began wearing Red Ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to raise awareness of the killing and destruction caused by drugs in America, and to inspire our kids and families to be drug-free. Join Nicole and Leland Nash and find out more by going to  redribbon.org

 

31. Mental Restorations Foundation [Truck with Trailer]

Let’s welcome the Mental Restorations Foundation. The Mental Restorations Foundation is a nonprofit serving Veterans, first responders, and families. Their programs promote healing, resilience, and connection to help heroes and their loved ones thrive.

 

32. U.S. Navy Recruiting (Business Parade Marshal Banner)

Anchors Aweigh! The U.S. Navy Recruiting Team carries our Business Parade Marshal Banner today. Led by Ensign Erica Williams in those legendary dress whites and Petty Officer Rosie Lutunauga, along with a few more of our Big Island's Sailors and Navy Veterans. They continue a proud tradition by deterring aggression and allowing freedom of the seas. Let’s hear a big Hooyah for our Navy!

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33. Business Parade Marshal – Ken’s House of Pancakes [Vehicle]

Let's give a big Mahalo nui to our Business Parade Marshal Ken's House of Pancakes and led by their talented and caring General Manager Debbie Ching Maiava. Ken's has been Jammin' since 1971 Ken’s brings smiles, great food, and huge aloha to East Hawai‘i. They’ve supported Veterans and the community for decades. Now… Everybody say it with me —(Ding) “Sumo!”

 

34. HOPE Services Hawai‘i [Truck with Trailer]

“Hope Services Hawai‘i proudly honors all Veterans today and every day. With gratitude for their courage and sacrifice, they walk alongside them by providing shelter, housing, and hope for those who served our nation. Together with our community, we celebrate service and stand united in ensuring no Veteran is left without the dignity of home.”

 

35. Kea‘au High School Cougar Band [MUSIC]

The Kea‘au High School Cougar Band honors our armed forces through music and teamwork. Founded in 1999, they represent school pride across parades, football games, and community events. Their school recently celebrated our 21st graduating class. Today the Keaau High School Cougar Band and Color Guard will perform a selection from the Patriotic Parade Sequence, arranged by Paul Lavender.

 

36 Hawai‘i Island Adult Care (HIAC) [Van]

A big mahalo to Hawai‘i Island Adult Care! For nearly 50 years, HIAC has helped kūpuna thrive through high quality and compassionate adult daycare, caregiver services and respite for families. Today they salute our Veterans for their courage and service — aloha from the HIAC ‘ohana!

 

37. Military Order of the Purple Heart [Vehicle]

The Military Order of the Purple Heart supports Hawai‘i’s wounded warriors through access to medical care and affordable housing. Local chapter leaders include combat Veterans Lt. Col. (Ret.) Bob Williams, Kimo Pihana, and Richard Suganuma — these wounded warriors continue to serve with courage and aloha. Kimo is also a Hawaiian Cultural Practitioner, author, and organizer for the international American Indian Pow Wow festivities annually held in Hilo Hawaii Let’s give them a hero’s cheer!

 

        HIVM - Our next truck is driven by HIVM Board Member Tom Fratinardo. Organized in 1997 to serve as a development entity for the island’s many veterans and veteran groups, HIVM’s all volunteer members of this 501c3 organization worked tirelessly to build an affordable senior independent living community and eventually support facilities for our island Veterans. Last year Ka Hui Koa with 92 housing units opened with priority to Veterans. 

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38. Big Island National Guard Retirees Association (BINGRA) [Vehicle]

The Big Island National Guard Retirees Association — or BINGRA — unites retired Army and Air Guard members who’ve served 20 years or more. Formed after Vietnam in 1969, they gather monthly over breakfast for socializing, camaraderie and to assist fellowVeterans across Hawai‘i with matters associated with aging, and Veterans issues.

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39. Fire Mission – Military Honors LLC [Truck and Trailer]

Fire Mission – Military Honors and the Lone Soldier Honor Guard pay final tribute to departed Veterans and First Responders with honor rides in a customized caisson, Rifle Salutes, and Taps. Since the 1990s, they’ve supported over 400 families with dignity and compassion.

 

40. Hawai‘i Island’s Teen 2025 – Olga Arianoff [MUSIC in Vehicle]

Please welcome Olga Lehua Arianoff, crowned Miss Hawai‘i Island’s Teen 2025! A talented singer and community advocate, she supports military families, raises awareness for their unique challenges, and provides much-needed resources to help them thrive.

 

41. PuroClean of the Big Island [Work Van & Truck]

PuroClean of The Big Island helps families and businesses overcome the devastating setbacks caused by water, fire, mold, and other conditions resulting in property damage. Call 808-640-4400 to learn more. Today, they thank all Veterans for their courage, strength, and dedication to keeping us safe and free. Your bravery and sacrifices for our nation do not go unnoticed. We are forever grateful for your service.

 

42. Botanical World Adventures (Segways) [Truck]

Get ready for excitement — it’s Botanical World Adventures! From thrilling Segway rides, to soaring ziplines through lush rainforests, scenic bike tours through paradise, and upcoming waterfall rappel and swim tours, they celebrate life and salute our Veterans. With special military year-round discounts and endless aloha, they remind us that adventure and gratitude go hand in hand. Mahalo to Botanical World Adventures for honoring service and sacrifice with adventure!

 

43. Hawai‘i Island Veterans Club [Truck]

The Hawaiʻi Island Veterans Club fosters connection, healing, and service among veterans and the community through peer support, cultural sharing, and wellness initiatives rooted in aloha, kuleana, and lōkahi. All are welcome—no UH affiliation required. Let’s thank them for making important connections, lifting spirits and serving others!

 

44. East Hawai‘i Lions Clubs [Vehicle]

The East Hawai‘i Lions Clubs — Akaka Falls, Hilo Crescent City, Waiākea, and Hilo — work together to empower partners, volunteers, and Lion's clubs to improve health and well-being, support communities and those in need through humanitarian services and grants that impact lives globally. Their motto says it all — “We Serve.” Let’s thank our Lions for leading with kindness and courage!

 

45. Hilo Christmas Lights Parade (next to Lions)

It’s never too early for Christmas spirit! The East Hawai‘i Lions Clubs invite you to the Hilo Christmas Lights Parade — kicking off the holidays in true island style Saturday, November 29, 2025 starting at 6 pm in downtown Hilo.. Bring your smiles, your family, and your aloha to share the joy and anticipation of the holidays with family, friends and our community.

 

46. Scouting America – Aloha Council / Big Island District

Let’s welcome Scouting America’s Aloha Council. They train Hawai‘i’s youth to be leaders through outdoor adventure, service, and teamwork. Their mottos, “Be Prepared” and “Do Your Best,” guide scouts to serve with courage and kindness at all times & in all places.

 

47. Hawai‘i Horse Owners Association – Pana‘ewa Stampede Rodeo [Horses]

Yee-haw and aloha! The Hawai‘i Horse Owners Association is a family-oriented club celebrating paniolo traditions. Families, friends, and keiki enjoying horses, parades, and rodeos together. Don’t miss their Pana‘ewa Stampede Rodeo this Valentine’s Weekend February 14-15, 2026! Let’s cheer our cowboys and cowgirls of aloha!

 

48. AARP

AARP Hawai‘i is proud to honor all our Veterans today! They continue to serve our kūpuna with heart—hosting community events, sharing vital information, and standing up for Hawai‘i’s seniors. Let’s hear it for AARP Hawai‘i for keeping our kūpuna safe, connected, and cared for!

 

49. Zonta Club of Hilo [Vehicle]

Chartered in 1950, The Zonta Club of Hilo is celebrating 75 years of building a better world for women and girls in our community through our service projects, scholarship and award programs, and advocacy work on behalf of women and children. They prove that when women rise, communities shine!

 

50. Hawai‘i Life Flight [Vehicle]

Since 2010, Hawaii Life Flight has been your friendly air ambulance company, zipping patients from remote spots to top-notch care across the Hawaiian Islands! With skilled pilots and expert medical crews, they're on call 24/7 making sure help is just a flight away! Let’s give a huge mahalo to Hawai‘i Life Flight for keeping Hawai‘i residents safe and cared for!

 

51. Hawai‘i Care Choices (formerly Hospice) [Vehicle with Trailer]

Marching with aloha — Hawai‘i Care Choices! For more than 40 years, they’ve provided Hospice, Palliative, and Bereavement Care, guiding families through illness and loss with compassion and grace. Through their “We Honor Veterans” program, they recognize and support our heroes with dignity and love. Let’s thank them for their care and kindness! To learn more visit hawaiicarechoices.org

 

52. East Hawai‘i County Republicans [2 Vehicles with Trailer & MUSIC]

East Hawaii County Republicans proudly honor our Veterans whose selfless service and sacrifice have made and keep America a country of Faith, Family and Freedom.  Because of you, our Nation is "The Land of the Free and Home of the Brave."  With grateful hearts we salute our Veterans!

 

53. Hawai‘i Community College

At Hawaii Community College we promote lifelong learning, to promote academic achievement and workforce readiness for our Military-Connected Students and our Hawaii Island Community. Their programs build brighter futures across the island and prepare the next generation to serve our communities with skill and heart.

 

54. Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Agency [Command Vehicle]

When disaster strikes, these next heroes answer first! The Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Agency coordinates emergency preparedness and response for the island — ensuring quick, effective action during natural or man-made disasters to keep our island ready, safe, and informed through storms, eruptions, and emergencies. Mahalo for protecting us through every storm and crisis!

 

55. American Red Cross [Truck]

Here comes the American Red Cross — answering the call to help when emergencies strike! Their volunteers bring hope and healing through the generosity of donors and the strength of aloha. Today, they send a heartfelt salute to all our Veterans. Let’s hear it for the Red Cross, always there when we need them most!

 

56. Hilo Woman’s Club

Celebrating more than 100 years of service — it’s the Hilo Woman’s Club! Since 1921, these dedicated women have uplifted East Hawai‘i through various educational, social, and civic development projects; scholarships to East Hawaii students, and offering their clubhouse for rent to benefit the community and families. Let’s honor the Hilo Woman’s Club for their century of compassion and leadership!

 

57. Orchidland Neighbors [Electric Cart]

Orchidland Neighbors wants to say “Aloha friends and neighbors!!! And a special aloha to all our veterans and their families as we remember and thank them for their loyalty and service. Orchidland Neighbors is a Puna community group with big dreams — to build a community center for gatherings, after-school programs, a kitchen, playgrounds, and a space for Veterans to enjoy. They share aloha for community and country and invite you to work with them.
 

58. Armed Services 6 Flags (In front of Aloha Exchange Club)

Who can name the six armed forces in the US and when they were established? Carrying all six of the military service flags in order of precedence (from the viewer's left to right) you see the flags of the U.S. Army (1775), U.S. Marine Corps (1775), U.S. Navy (1794), U.S. Air Force (1951), U.S. Space Force (2020), and U.S. Coast Guard (1790).

 

59. Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawai‘i & UH Hilo Baseball Team (large flag)

The Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawai‘i serves our community with heart — honoring first responders and preventing child abuse through service and education. From their Police and Firefighter of the Year banquet to child abuse prevention, they live aloha every day. Helping carry their massive flag today is the UH Hilo Baseball Team. Go Vulcans!

 

60. Hilo High School JROTC

The Hilo High School Junior Officer Reserve Corps or JROTC is lead by Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Keoni Randolph and Cadet Command Sergeant Major Caitlin Inada and is advised by Retired Sergeant First Class Dustin Amaral. These cadets learn to lead with honor, discipline, and service to their community.
 

61. Hilo High School Viking Band [MUSIC]

Feel the pride — it’s the Hilo High Viking Band! Founded in 1906, Hilo High School is rich in tradition and honor. Under the direction of Mrs. Kuʻulei Arceo, the Hilo High School Viking Band is led by Drum Major, River Flynn. Performing God Bless America, the band proudly represents the blue and gold pride of Hilo High School. “Once a Viking, always a Viking!”

 

62. Exchange Club of Hilo [Truck]

Wave those flags for the Exchange Club of Hilo! For more than five decades, they’ve shared patriotism and hope through youth programs and their beloved “Give A Kid A Flag To Wave.” Let’s thank them for sharing Americanism, Community, Youth And Prevention Of Child Abuse programs as they spread pride and aloha throughout Hilo!

 

63. Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks #759

Aloha to the Hilo Elks Lodge #759 - part of the national Elks organization with guiding principles of Justice, Brotherly Love, Fidelity and Charity. The Elks are American citizens who support our Veterans, Honor the American Flag and sponsor Youth Activities in the community. Go to elks.org for more information.

 

64. Auntie’s Angels HI LLC [Vehicle with Trailer]

Here come Auntie’s Angels — caring for Hawai‘i’s kūpuna with hearts full of aloha! They help seniors stay happy, healthy, and independent at home. And today, they send a big mahalo to our Veterans, firefighters, and police officers for protecting and serving with such devotion.

 

65. University of Hawai‘i at Hilo Athletics [Truck]

Let’s hear it for The University of Hawai‘i at Hilo Athletics –You may have noticed, the women’s and men’s basketball teams and the baseball team – are helping in a number of ways today to make this parade possible. They proudly march in honor of the courage and sacrifice of our veterans, service members, and their families. Whose dedication inspires the strength, teamwork, and spirit of our Vulcan ‘ohana. They want to say “Mahalo for your service—from all of us at UH Hilo Athletics!”

 

66. Hawai‘i Association of Filipino Educators (HAFE) and Fil-Am Community of East Hawai‘i (FACEH) [Vehicle]

Let’s welcome two special non-profits supporting our island - Hawai‘i Association of Filipino Educators -HAFE and Fil-Am Community of East Hawai‘i! - FACEH.

-HAFE teachers and researchers across the islands support Filipino educators, strengthening community ties, and promoting Filipino culture and values.
-FACEH members unite people of all backgrounds, preserving Filipino heritage through cultural events and community service.
Together, they honor Filipino-American Veterans and celebrate the pride, culture, and aloha they share with Hawai‘i.

 

67. UH Hilo Basketball Team (Community Marshal Banner)

The UH Hilo Basketball Team carries the Community Parade Marshal Banner with pride! These dedicated student-athletes bring Vulcan energy and aloha to every game and every community event. Today, they honor our Veterans and remind us that teamwork, gratitude, and service make Hawai‘i stronger. Go Vulcans!

 

68. Community Parade Marshal – Vibrant Hawai‘i

Vibrant Hawai‘i builds strong, resilient communities through partnerships and programs that support families in need. Their “Aloha in Action” effort is distributing food island-wide during federal shutdowns and emergencies. They show that when times get tough, Hawai‘i stands together. Riding today in Cyrus Johnasen’s new truck is Navy Veteran and Vibrant Hawai‘i’s Chief Operating Officer, Maurice Messina. Mahalo for the support of the entire Vibrant Hawai‘i leadership team and cheer them for putting “aloha in action” every day!

 

69. Hilo Knights of Columbus [Vehicle]

The 4th Degree of the Knights of Columbus is the Patriot Degree with the Knights being addressed as Sir Knights. Many members are Veterans and retirees, living their faith through charity and service. Their focus is to honor those who have served and those who have sacrificed their lives for our Country.

 

70. ‘Ohana Pacific Health – Legacy Hilo Rehab & Nursing [Minivan & Truck]

Let’s give a warm welcome to Legacy Hilo Rehab and Nursing! With 100 beds and round-the-clock care, their team serves kūpuna and Veterans recovering from an illness or injury with love, patience, and dignity. It takes a special heart to do what they do — mahalo to the Legacy Hilo ‘ohana for their care and compassion.

 

71. Taishoji Taiko [Truck]

We’re thrilled to have Taishoji Taiko here to close out our parade with such class and skill. Celebrating 36 years, Taishoji Taiko blends tradition and innovation through their powerful performances – and are widely recognized for their engaging and energetic performances at various community events, to include Waimea’s annual Cherry Blossom Festival. Honored to be here as well, they want to dedicate this performance in gratitude to our veterans. (note- taiko drums on stands, some drummers will walk)

 

72. Save the Date Banner – November 7, 2026 (Back of Taiko Truck)

Save the date, everyone! The 19th Annual Hawai‘i Island Veterans Day Parade happens November 7, 2026. Same place, same aloha, even more spirit! Write it down and plan to join us for another amazing celebration of service and community.

 

73. Pepe‘ekeo Volunteer Fire Company 1-Alpha

Here come our hometown heroes — Pepe‘ekeo Volunteer Fire Company 1-Alpha! From their plantation beginnings to today’s 12-member team, they stand ready around the clock. Let’s make some noise for these volunteers who protect our island with courage and aloha!

 

74. Hawai‘i Island Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals & Kiwanis Volunteers (Supporting Announcers)

Let’s give a warm mahalo to the Hawai‘i Island Chamber Young Professionals and Kiwanis Volunteers! They’re the friendly faces helping our announcers and keeping this celebration on cue. Mahalo for your hard work and for sharing your aloha behind the scenes!

 

75. Staging Area and Veteran Tent Volunteers (Lions, HCC, Kiwanis & more)

Before a single float rolls, these heroes are hard at work! Led by Kirk Mikami, our Lions Clubs, HCC, Kiwanis, UH Hilo teams, volunteers from many more places who come together to organize, park, guide, support and cheer everyone on. Let’s give a standing ovation to the crew who makes this parade happen!