New Flagpole Restores American Flag at Honolulu Veterans Building

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The American flag is once again displayed at the 100th Infantry Battalion Memorial Building in Honolulu with the installation of a new flagpole. This improvement came about through the efforts of apprentices from the Hawaii Laborers Apprenticeship and Training Program along with Green Thumb Landscape, following the discovery of significant deterioration in the previous flagpole.

Kathi Hayashi of the 100th Infantry Battalion Veterans noted that the old flagpole, over 70 years old, had become damaged, with a considerable hole revealing its decay. Initial estimates for replacement were as high as $17,000. Fortunately, the apprentices took on the project pro bono. Peter Ganaban from the Laborers’ International Union of North America, Local 368, emphasized that honoring the military’s sacrifices is essential, creating a lasting memory for the community.

Retired Army Col. Edward Crookshank from the Oahu Veterans Council remarked on the significance of such gestures, illustrating the dedication to acknowledging those who serve. This new flagpole symbolizes the legacy of the 100th Infantry Battalion, comprised of Japanese American soldiers who fought bravely despite facing discrimination.