Military: Experience PTA Day a huge success

Almost 900 visitors came to Experience PTA (Pōhakuloa Training Area) Day on April 20 on the Big Island.

Visitors learned about Pōhakuloa Training Area’s expansive environmental program and got to talk to archeologists, biologists and more to learn about what the military does to protect endangered and rare plants and animals.

Attendees saw U.S. Army helicopters and U.S. Marine aircraft flyovers, and went to the airfield to sit in the pilot seats, walk through aircrafts and talk to crew members. They learned about Pōhakuloa Training Area’s recycling program which diverts more than 50% of waste from landfills; 500,000+ pounds in 2022.

Visitors also learned through hands-on activities that community partners such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 3Rs program (Recognize, Retreat, Report), Mauna Loa Observatories, Hawaii Firewise, American Red Cross, and many more.

“We’re part of the community and we’re super excited to have this dedicated day where everyone sets up alongside the community to welcome the public to show the incredible work that happens every day at PTA and the community,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Cronin.