Kona’s Yano Hall Reopens Following Renovations

Government officials past and present today celebrated the renovation of a popular recreational facility in Kona.

Three buildings at the Sgt. Rodney J.T. Yano Memorial Hall in Captain Cook received new roofs under the $702,978 contract.

The seven-month project included repainting, replacing of floor tiles, accessibility improvements and removal of hazardous materials at the county facility.

Yano Hall hosts a variety of senior programs and community events.

The project was paid for by federal grants and county capital funds.

Department of Parks and Recreation staff also provided in-house improvements that included installation of new counters, cabinets and appliances in the kitchen and primping of the facility’s exterior.

The hall which opened in December 1970 is named after Sgt. First Class Rodney James Takahashi Yano, a Kealakekua native who was killed in Vietnam.

Yano was aboard a helicopter when a grenade exploded inside. Although he suffered what would prove to be fatal injuries, Yano managed to throw burning ammunition out of the aircraft, saving the rest of his crew.

He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

Glenn Yano, Rodney’s brother, and other members of the Yano family attended today’s ceremony.