As many people spend this Memorial Day preparing for a barbecues or enjoying the day off, we give ho’omana’o (pronounced ho-oh-mah-nah-oh) or a remembrance to those who served our country and paid the ultimate price for our freedom. 

Hawaii, sadly, was the location of one of our nation’s most historic events:  the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. As the granddaughter of an army soldier that fought in World War II, I always go to Pearl Harbor to pay my respects to those who lost their lives on that horrible day. I find myself there wondering about their families and hoping that they realize that there are people who still think of them…and thank them. 

Tonight is the Shinnyo Floating Lantern Ceremony at Ala Moana Beach in Honolulu. Thousands of floating lanterns, with the names of those who have passed, those who we send ho’omana’o, will be released to the ocean. It is one of the more moving and powerful events I have ever seen. When not on the island, I am able to view the live stream. And I always keep a box of tissues close by. 

Who do you ho’omana’o this Memorial Day?

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