Maui Fire Department Promotes Two to Battalion Chief

BC Amos Lonokailua-Hewett, Mayor Alan Arakawa, BC Richard Kawasaki. Photo courtesy MFD.

By Wendy Osher

The Maui Fire Department today announced the promotion of two long-time members to the rank of battalion chief.

Amos Lonokailua-Hewett and Richard Kawasaki were promoted during a badge-pinning ceremony held at the Kahului Fire Station on Wednesday.

Their advancement to the administrative ranks of the department comes after decades of service from both individuals.

“Both men have over 40 years of service combined between them,” said Maui Fire Chief Jeffrey Murray in a press release today.

He continued saying, “They have provided a high level commitment of service to the community of Maui County.  I am honored with the opportunity to promote them to battalion chiefs.”

Fire Chief Jeffrey Murray, BC Amos Lonokailua-Hewett, BC Richard Kawasaki, Deputy Chief Robert Shimada. MFD courtesy photo.

Lonokailua-Hewett is a 19-year veteran of the Maui Fire Department.

Over the course of his career, he has worked at five different stations, most recently serving as captain of the Training Bureau at the Kahului Fire Station.

That post will be filled by Kris Sakamoto whose promotion to captain takes effect on April 1.

In his new capacity as battalion chief, Lonokailua-Hewett will manage the 2nd Battalion, First Watch, according to department officials.

Kawasaki is a 22-year-veteran of the department, having served at various stations over the course of his career, the most recent of which was captain of the 2nd Watch at the Makawao Station.

In his new capacity as battalion chief, department officials say Kawasaki will manage the 1st Battalion, Third Watch.

***Supporting information courtesy Maui Fire Department.

Battalion Chief Richard Kawasaki and Battalion Chief Amos Lonokailua-Hewett. Photos courtesy MFD.