SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii — The 25th Infantry Division “Tropic Lightning” hosted the University of Hawaii at Manoa Rainbow Warriors football team for a team building day, here, and at East Range, on June 23, 2018.
The Rainbow Warriors were greeted by the 25th ID’s Hui Ha’a team performed “the dance of the warrior” at the 1st Lt. Nainoa K. Hoe Mission Training Complex to welcome the Rainbow Warriors.
University of Hawaii at Manoa Rainbow Warriors football coach, Nick Rolovich, asked for the Tropic Lightning Soldiers permission to learn the ways of the warriors, kicking off the day.
J.R. Hensley, an offensive lineman with the Rainbow Warriors paid tribute to the 1st Lt. Nainoa K. Hoe memorial at the MTC, for which the area is named after, by placing lei on the memorial.
Allen Hoe, father of Lt. Hoe, thanked the coaches and players of team and told them sacrifice his son had given during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007.
“You have probably heard about the 16th star on your shirt,” Hoe said. “Now let me introduce you to the young boy who was the 15th star the shirt you wear today, First Lieutenant Nainoa K. Hoe.”
He spoke of his son was outgoing, loved water sports, surfing and school. His son earned his undergraduate and master’s degree, and as well as his commission from the University of Hawaii Reserve Officers’ Training Corps.
“And it was nothing better that he loved to do than be with his team, his Soldiers,” he said.
Maj. Gen. Ronald Clark, commander, 25th ID, gave his own remarks during this special occasion.
“Where you stand is on hallowed ground,” Clark said. “It’s hallowed because historically Hawaii warriors trained right here. In the ancient times on the Leilehua Plateau. Where they trained to fight off the enemies of these islands. In that same tradition, October 1st, 1941. The 25th Infantry Division was founded here at Schofield Barracks. We’re the only division that serves where it was born in the same location.”
He stated on the lives lost here during when the Empire of Japan attacked not only Pearl Harbor, but at various locations, including Wheeler Army Airfield.
“We draw our energy, our power, our heritage from those brave warriors that served right here,” said. “And we want you to do that with us again today.”