My oldest son, Andrew, is creating a "Hickam Heritage Trail" for his Eagle Scout project. He is publishing a brochure for a family friendly walk to the base's historical sites. He led a team of volunteers to write the directions and descriptions ... I followed with my camera. Above is the Nellis Chapel.
It is named for Army PFC Nellis, Chaplain's Assistant, who was killed in action on December 7, 1941.
Two sites overlook the Pearl Harbor Channel - Hickam Elementary School and the Freedom Tower.
The statue of an Oahu ali'i (chief) greets students as they arrive at Hickam Elementary School.
From the school's website,
Kalani I Ka Lewa
Ascend to the Heavens
Kalani I Ka Lewa by artist Viliami Toluta’u was inspired by the natural instinct in humanity to be free as we are in America. The young Ali’i (chief) is releasing an eagle into the heavens, symbolizing the potential of children to soar high in life with education as their wings. The young Ali’i also pay homage to the spirit of the Freedom Tower with hope that the children emulate the eagle in exploring and scouting their horizons and its limitless possibilities. A grant from the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts (Art in Public Places Program) provided the funding for this special work of art.
The ali'i looks up to the Freedom Tower ...
... the water tower was renamed the Freedom Tower in honor of Hickam Field's 50th anniversary.
From the school, we rambled over to the Pearl Harbor channel walkway, popular with runners, strollers, and dogs. In the distance, the Wai'anae Range rises over the Ewa Plain.
The Wright Bros. Cafe offered a refreshment break.
The channel trail leads to the Missing Man Formation, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. One randomly selected commenter from this week's blogs wins a book choice from my convention stash. This giveaway is open to all readers. Comments are open through Saturday, March 9, 10 pm in Hawaii. I'll post the winner on Sunday, March 10.
Mahalo,
Kim in Hawaii
The librarian noted the school grounds previously served as the base's nursery. Hence, Hickam has an abundance of flowers, including the Bird of Paradise.
