Thank you very much for the opportunity to serve as Chair of the Military Affairs Committee (MAC).  I am very humbled to follow in the footsteps of previous Chair Keith Marrack.  MAC Chair Keith and his Committee did a great job coordinating the various activities of the MAC as well as developing a relationship between Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA) and the Hawaii Island Chamber of Commerce.

The MAC’s objectives will be to continue our relationship with Lt Colonel Kevin Cronin and PTA through the various activities we’ve developed as well as new activities.  There are several tours at PTA including, but not limited to the Fire Department, Conservation and Environmental efforts. 

We are also looking to build relationships with Lt. Colonel Thomas Naldrett and the Keaukaha Military Reservation (KMR) and the Hawaii National Guard (HING). We will be involved with several activities at both facilities. One activity I look forward to implementing, subject to the National Guard approval is the Bosslift which involves riding the KC135 Aircraft to Honolulu and Helicopter ride in Hilo.    

We encourage members to join the MAC and experience PTA, KMR, HING and become familiar with these organizations.  The MAC meets every 2nd Wednesday at 12:00-1:00.  We are currently meeting via Zoom.

Should you have any questions about the MAC, PTA or KMR/HING please contact me or the Hawaii Island Chamber of Commerce office.

Thank you very much.

Aloha, Gordon Takaki