KFD, OSB hold promotion and welcome ceremony Tuesday
LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Fire Department (KFD) and Ocean Safety Bureau (OSB) held a ceremony Tuesday morning at the Līhu‘e Civic Center to promote nine KFD firefighters and welcome nine OSB officers to the team.
Kaua‘i Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson addressed the 18 first responders in front of a crowd of family, friends, and supporters.
“We thank all of you who accepted the challenge to contribute to the future success of the Kaua‘i Fire Department and Ocean Safety Bureau,” said Fire Chief Gibson. “Remember who you are, remember what this department stands for, and remember the people who came before you and ensure that you honor them as well.”
Administrative Battalion Chief Jayson Pablo was the emcee in today’s ceremony.
“It is my honor to present your family member, friend, companion, and son for their promotions within the Kaua‘i Fire Department and as newest additions with the Ocean Safety Bureau,” said BC Pablo.
“Every one of these 18 first responders had gone through tremendous sacrifice and effort to get where they are today. We welcome and promote these Bravehearts who watch over our keiki, our visitors, and our local residents. They dedicate their lives and their own safety to make sure that our community is safe,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “On behalf of the Office of the Mayor, the departments, and the people of Kaua‘i, we want to say thank you to the families, chiefs, first responder community, and everyone being promoted and getting on board today.”
Fire Captain Michael Thompson: Fire Captain Michael Thompson hails from Kansas, the proud home of the Super Bowl champions, the Chiefs. With 20 years of firefighting experience under his belt, including three years in the Prevention Bureau, he brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to his role. Graduating from Kaiser High School, he furthered his education with an Associate of Science in Fire Protection Technology from Portland Community College and a BA in Advertising from the University of Hawai‘i. He attributes much of his strength and inspiration to his wife, Alexandra Thompson, whose selflessness and resilience, including donating a kidney to save a friend and battling cancer with a smile, serve as constant reminders of true bravery and generosity.
Fire Captain Russell Nohili Vierra: Hailing from Kalāheo and raised on the Westside of Kaua‘i, Fire Captain Russell Nohili Vierra boasts an impressive 24-year tenure in the Fire Service, with 15 years dedicated to the Kaua‘i Fire Department. In addition to his firefighting duties, he serves as the Chairman of the Apparatus Committee and PADO Cadre Director, while also instructing in various areas including Fire Ground Ops, Driver training, and CPR. Grateful for the guidance provided by past captains and senior personnel, he remains committed to upholding the high standards set forth by his predecessors. He extends heartfelt thanks to his wife, Toni Vierra, for her unwavering support and sacrifices throughout his career.
Firefighter III Raymond Keahi: A proud native of the east side of Kaua‘i, Firefighter III Raymond Keahi has dedicated 14 years to the Kaua‘i Fire Department, steadily progressing from FFI to FF3. Assigned to the Prevention Bureau since 2023, he diligently ensures public safety through inspections, investigations, and educational outreach. Beyond his duties, he actively participates in various committees and volunteer efforts, including the Vehicle Extrication cadre and Peer Support Committee. Grateful for the unwavering support of his family, he acknowledges their role in his journey, along with the invaluable guidance of his mentors and colleagues.
Firefighter III Abraham Mohr: Originally from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Firefighter III Abraham Mohr brings 8 years of dedicated service to the Kaua‘i Fire Department. With a focus on hazmat operations and program management, he plays a crucial role in ensuring community safety. Grateful for the support of his wife, Kari, and inspired by his colleagues and mentors, he remains committed to serving his community with excellence and dedication.
Firefighter III Ryan Nagaoka: Born and raised on Kaua‘i, Firefighter III Ryan Nagaoka has served the Kaua‘i Fire Department for 14 years. With a focus on Fire Ground Ops and EMS, he is dedicated to protecting and serving his community. He extends heartfelt gratitude to his family for their unwavering support throughout his career.
Firefighter III Andrew Oda: A lifelong resident of Kaua‘i, Firefighter III Andrew Oda has proudly served the Kaua‘i Fire Department for a decade. In addition to his duties, he serves as an instructor for EMS and Fire Ground Survival cadres, imparting his knowledge to the next generation of firefighters. He acknowledges the support of his family and colleagues, emphasizing the importance of their guidance and camaraderie.
Firefighter II Troy Schmidt: Proudly born and raised on Kaua‘i, Firefighter II Troy Schmidt brings a decade of firefighting experience to his role. With a focus on Hazmat operations and driver training, he plays a vital role in ensuring public safety. He extends heartfelt thanks to his family and colleagues for their unwavering support and guidance throughout his career.
Firefighter II Russell Fujimoto: With fourteen years of service to the department, Firefighter II Russell Fujimoto is a valued member of the Kaua‘i Fire Department. Engaged in various committees and cadres, he remains committed to excellence in his duties. He expresses gratitude to his wife, Lauren, and daughter, Daisy, for their unwavering support.
Firefighter II Chandler Forrest: A native of Kaua‘i, Firefighter II Chandler Forrest has dedicated seven years to the Kaua‘i Fire Department. Engaged in various committees and cadres, he remains committed to serving his community with dedication and excellence. He extends heartfelt thanks to his family, friends, and colleagues for their unwavering support.
Ocean Safety Officer I William Brown: Originally from Fullerton, CA, Ocean Safety Officer I Billy Brown has been serving the islands since 2002. Alongside his duties as a lifeguard, he works as a PE teacher and swim coach, embodying a lifelong dedication to water safety and education.
Ocean Safety Officer I Keale Hoff: A resident of Hawai‘i, Ocean Safety Officer I Keale Hoff brings a lifetime of waterman experience to his role. Inspired by his upbringing and service in the military, he is committed to protecting and serving his community. He extends heartfelt thanks to his wife, training officers, and colleagues for their unwavering support.
Ocean Safety Officer I Levi-Jon Ho’opi’i-Pascua: Originally from Maui, Ocean Safety Officer I Levi-Jon Ho’opi’i-Pascua proudly serves the south side of Kaua‘i. Grateful for the opportunity to serve his community, he acknowledges the support of his colleagues and family in his journey.
Ocean Safety Officer I Max Jordan: Born in Maui and raised in Hawai‘i, Ocean Safety Officer I Max Jordan brings a lifelong passion for the ocean to his role. Grateful for the support of his parents and colleagues, he remains committed to serving his community with dedication and excellence.
Ocean Safety Officer I Meleke Leasau: Hailing from Kaua‘i, Ocean Safety Officer I Meleke Leasau embodies a deep connection to the ocean and community. Grateful for the support of his family and colleagues, he remains dedicated to serving his community with excellence.
Ocean Safety Officer I Clifton Oliver: Clifton Oliver, born and raised in Kapa‘a, Kaua‘i. Currently working the Wanini roving tower in the north district. He would like to thank his mom, dad, girlfriend Natalie and her parents for all the love and support throughout his journey on becoming a lifeguard.
Ocean Safety Officer I Jesse Uemura: A proud graduate of Kapa‘a High School, Ocean Safety Officer I Jesse Uemura serves the south side of Kaua‘i with dedication and pride. Grateful for the support of his family and colleagues, he remains committed to serving his community with excellence.
Ocean Safety Officer I Kai Whitfield: Born and raised in Haena, Kaua‘i, Ocean Safety Officer I Kai Whitfield fulfills a lifelong dream of serving his community. Grateful for the support of his family, he remains dedicated to protecting and serving his community.
Ocean Safety Officer I Chad Kuboyama: Originally from Kaua‘i and currently residing in Wailua, Chad Kuboyama serves as a lifeguard at Hā‘ena tower. He expresses gratitude to his mentors, colleagues, and faith for their unwavering support.
The Kaua‘i Fire Department (KFD) and Ocean Safety Bureau (OSB) held a ceremony Tuesday morning at the Līhu‘e Civic Center to promote nine firefighters and welcome nine OSB officers.
 Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami addresses a crowd gathered at the Kaua‘i Fire Department and Ocean Safety Bureau promotional and welcome ceremony.
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