PHOTOS: Gabbard Visits Maui Airport, Coast Guard Facilities
By Wendy Osher
Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard attended several events on Maui as part of a week long visit to the 2nd Congressional District.
During her Maui visit, Rep. Gabbard met with officials and constituents to discuss issues related to her work in Congress with a focus on immigration, veterans affairs, and education.
The Maui visit included a tour of the Maui Airport Fire Department and Kahului Runway.
While there, she was briefed on the MAFD’s priorities and needs, including federal funding for firefighting equipment and water rescue concerns.
Rep. Gabbard also attended a surprise ceremony to honor US Coast Guard Auxiliarist Michael Champley for his volunteerism and dedication to the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Champley has logged 3,040 hours with the Auxiliary, with about 2,500 of those hours on Maui.
In his volunteer capacity, he streamlined the CG Station Maui communications watch position and volunteered on most holidays so that Active Duty members could spend time with their loved ones. He is currently attending American Military University and his major is Homeland Security studies.
On Wednesday afternoon, Congresswoman Gabbard held a forum to hear concerns and suggestions from local veterans and veterans organizations at Maui Tropical Plantation.
There, she listened to issues of concern, including pending claims, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and female-specific veterans issues. Organizations in attendance included the DAV Maui Chapter, Maui Vietnam Veterans, and the Maui County Veterans Council.
Her visit concluded with attendance at the Mayor’s State of the County Address, held last night in Wailuku.