KPD Recognizes Officer for Heroic Life-Saving Response
LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Police Department (KPD) recognized Officer Joseph Himongala as the Employee of the Month for January and presented him with the Life Saving Medal during the Kaua‘i Police Commission meeting this morning for his heroic response during a traffic incident.
On December 23, 2025, a single-vehicle crash occurred on Kūhiō Highway in which a child was ejected from the vehicle and sustained critical injuries. Officer Himongala, off duty and on his way home, was first to arrive at the scene and demonstrated calm, decisive leadership during a life-threatening situation.
Assessing the child’s severe condition, Officer Himongala immediately rendered lifesaving first aid with skill and composure. While administering care, he also provided reassurance, keeping the child calm and conscious until medical personnel arrived. This swift response directly contributed to preserving the child’s life and exemplifies the criteria for the Life Saving Medal, a recognition that honors employees whose immediate actions directly protect human life. This is Officer Himongala’s second time receiving the Life Saving Medal during his career with KPD.
Officer Himongala’s actions during this incident reflect years of specialized training and dedicated service. Prior to joining KPD’s Traffic Safety Section, he served as a Field Training Officer, mentoring new recruits, and continues to train department personnel in traffic control, speed enforcement, standardized field sobriety testing, and impaired driving investigations. As a Traffic Crash Reconstructionist and Drug Recognition Expert, he regularly handles complex collision investigations. He is also a member of KPD’s Crisis Negotiator Team. These roles have honed his ability to manage critical situations with precision and calm.
“Officer Himongala stepped in at a moment when seconds mattered,” said Deputy Chief Mark Ozaki. “His ability to deliver compassionate, lifesaving care under unimaginable pressure is a testament to his character and expertise. That day, he was exactly where he was needed most, and we are so grateful for his outstanding service to our community.”
Ready to make a difference in your community? The Kaua‘i Police Department is hiring police officers, dispatchers, public safety workers, and other civil service positions. Officer salaries range from $76,000 to over $118,000, with a robust benefits package. To qualify for officer roles, applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver’s license, be at least 20 years old, and have no misdemeanor, felony, or domestic violence convictions. Visit joinkauaipd.com for details and to apply.
Deputy Chief Mark Ozaki and Officer Jospeh Himongala at the Kaua‘i Police Commission meeting, where Officer Himongala was honored for his exceptional response during a traffic incident.
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