Kaua‘i Fire, county officials bless new engine for Kalāheo station

The Kaua‘i Fire Department held a blessing at the Kalāheo Fire Station for a new fire truck, replacing its 16-year-old front-line emergency response engine.

The blessing, which took place on Aug. 16, was attended by representatives from the Kaua‘i Fire Department, Kaua‘i Fire Commission, Hawai‘i Fire Fighters Association, Friends of Kaua‘i Fire Service, the Kaua‘i County Council, and others.

KFD Deputy Chief Roger Mills thanked Elton Ushio, Solomon Kanoho, Stephen Hall, Ernest Barreira, Reiko Matsuyama, Mayor Derek Kawakami, administrative staff, and Kaua‘i County Council members for making the new fire truck a reality.

“Their commitment to the safety and well-being of our community has been nothing short of extraordinary,” Mills said.

The old engine will now become a reserve engine for the department.

“The addition of Engine 5 to the Kalāheo Fire Station will undoubtedly enhance our ability to protect and serve the community, ensuring that we are always ready to respond in times of need,” added Mills.