The Mana O Ke Koa Award, which translates to “Spirit of the Warrior,” is presented to leaders who exemplify warrior ethos through service, community building, and steadfast support to Soldiers, veterans, and families.
This year’s recipient, MG (Ret.) Suzanne Vares-Lum, a Native Hawaiian and the first woman of Native Hawaiian descent to attain the rank of major general in the U.S. Army, was recognized for her 34 years of distinguished service across the Active Army, National Guard, and Army Reserve. Following her military retirement, she continued to serve by promoting partnerships and understanding across the Indo-Pacific region through diplomacy, education, and strategic leadership.
Gen. Ronald P. Clark described Vares-Lum...
