Three Maui Men Commended for Acts of Bravery

Mayor Charmaine Tavares today recognized several Maui men for acts of bravery in helping to save the lives of a mother and her son at Keanae on February 14, 2010.

Photo Courtesy: Office of the Mayor.

Among those recognized were:  Jeremy “Lako” Miller, of Pukalani; Kelly Ha`ole, of Makawao; and Aukai Hu`eu of Keanae. Ha`ole’s brother, Kai, was also recognized but was unable to attend.

Lako’s sister, Puali’i, who was celebrating her 13th birthday with family members at Keanae the day of the rescue, was also present. “She was the reason we were even there!” Lako noted.

“We live in a spectator culture nowadays, but these young men jumped in without hesitation, risking their own lives, to save the lives of others,” said Tavares.  “There are no words to describe our gratitude for their extraordinary heroism and the valor they demonstrated that day,” she said.

Following the Mayor’s ceremony, the County Council presented the men with a ceremonial resolution introduced by East Maui Council Member Bill Kauakea Medeiros.