Kāʻu police captain receives Hāweo award for leadership during and after Hurricane Lala
Police Capt. Pernell Hanoa, commander of the Hawaiʻi Police Department’s Kaʻū District, received the Haweo Award on Wednesday for his leadership and service to the community during and after Hurricane Lala.
Hanoa, a 21-year veteran of the department, was honored during a ceremony Wednesday at the Hawaiʻi County Council chambers in Kona.
The award was presented by the council’s Parks and Recreation and Public Safety Committee, which recognizes county police and fire personnel who go above and beyond the call of duty.
Hawaiʻi Police Department Assistant Chief Rio Amon-Wilkins, Hanoa’s commander, praised the captain.
“Captain Hanoa showed incredible character during this tragedy,” Amon-Wilkins said. “He remained calm and focused, and put his officers and the community before self. He doesn’t just put on his uniform and go to work in this community; he is a part of the community.”
Hanoa was recognized for leading his officers through one of the most devastating disasters Kaʻū has experienced. Hurricane Lala made landfall on Hawaiʻi Island on Aug. 15, leaving homes swept away or damaged, roads and bridges washed out, businesses severely damaged and forced to close, and two people dead.
As the community struggled with the destruction, Hanoa led his personnel with dedication and compassion, including officers who had been personally affected by the storm but continued reporting for duty in dangerous conditions.
The Kaʻū Police Station also lost electricity, running water and internet connectivity, while cellphone coverage disappeared and police radio communications were disrupted in some areas. The outages complicated emergency response efforts and the delivery of police services.
Despite those challenges, Hanoa balanced his administrative responsibilities as district commander with long hours in the field alongside his officers, Amon-Wilkins said.
The officers conducted numerous welfare checks, sometimes walking into neighborhoods where washed-out roads prevented vehicle access, to reach residents who lacked essential supplies and services.
Hanoa and his family also endured the storm’s aftermath at home. Although their residence sustained no substantial damage, they went without electricity and running water for more than a week.
Amon-Wilkins added that Hanoa and his wife are raising their children in Kaʻū, a relatively small, close-knit community where the people Hanoa serves are also his friends, family and neighbors.
“Captain Hanoa’s heart is in Kaʻū,” Amon-Wilkins said. “His service is truly exemplary and I am thankful for his dedication, and the dedication of those he serves alongside.”
The award’s name, Haweo, means to glow or be radiant. Hanoa received a lei and a certificate signed by every council member.
