Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2005

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Education and Military Affairs, to which was referred H.B. No. 8, H.D. 1, entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to establish a Hawaii Medal of Honor to be awarded to those who have been killed in action while serving in the United States armed forces or reserves.

Testimony in support of the measure was submitted by the Department of Defense, Office of Veterans' Services, Hawaii National Guard Enlisted Association, Hawaii National Guard Association, and an individual.

Your Committee finds that the current state of the world has changed dramatically since the United States declared war on terrorism. Higher rates of deployment are being recorded with the various branches of the nation's military. Meanwhile, it is the nation's duty to support those who have been called to active duty and deployed to hostile regions and to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. This measure provides the State with a means to honor those who have laid down their lives in defense of our nation and its freedoms.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Education and Military Affairs that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 8, H.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be placed on the calendar for Third Reading.