Captain Cook Post Office to get name change honoring Vietnam War Veteran Lt. Kauhaihao

President Joe Biden signed U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda’s bill into law, naming the Captain Cook Post Office on Hawaiʻi Island the “Army 1st Lt. John Ku‘ulei Kauhaihao Post Office Building.”

The post office at 82-6110 Māmalahoa Highway is being named after First Lt. John Ku‘ulei Kauhaihao of Hōnaunau, who was killed in action in Vietnam and posthumously awarded the US Army’s second highest award for valor, the Distinguished Service Cross.

On Sept. 5, 1969, at the age of 27, Kauhaihao was fatally injured during a reconnaissance-in-force operation in Tay Ninh Province. When his platoon came under enemy fire, Kauhaihao launched over 30 grenades in 15 minutes at enemy bunkers while simultaneously drawing fire on himself so his men could sight enemy gunners.

“Lieutenant Kauhaihao bravely fought for and defended his men and country, sacrificing his life so that all Americans could continue to live with their freedom. We can never repay those who served like Kauhaihao, but we can honor them and ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten,” said Rep. Tokuda. “I am grateful that President Biden is recognizing this local war hero with this much-deserved tribute, which helps to memorialize him in the community where generations of the Kauhaihao ʻohana still live.”

This is the first post office in Hawaiʻi designated since 2011 and the first in Hawaiʻi designated in honor of a Vietnam War veteran or an individual of Native Hawaiian descent.

Kauhaihao is survived by his widow and Konawaena High School sweetheart, Shirley, and their family.

“Our ʻohana is so grateful to Congresswoman Tokuda for introducing this bill to honor John’s memory and legacy of service to our country,” said Kauhaihaoʻs widow, Shirley Kauhaihao. ”It is our sincere hope that naming the post office after John will bring recognition to the service and sacrifice of all Vietnam War veterans who served and died, as well as those who came home and continue to serve their communities and country, especially those from Hawaiʻi. John was an excellent husband, father, and man, and he loved his role as a soldier because he loved his country. He truly was the greatest.” 

Maj. Gen. Kenneth Hara, Adjutant General of the State of Hawai‘i, said Kauhaihao’s exemplary bravery and ultimate sacrifice embody the highest ideals of U.S. military.

“Naming this post office in his honor ensures that his legacy of heroism and dedication to Hawai‘i and our nation will be remembered and will serve as an inspiration for all,” Hara added.

Read more about the bill here.