Since 1986, McKinley High School has acknowledged alumni who have made a difference in the community. On Jan. 26, Major General Vern Miyagi was inducted into this distinguished group.

Introducing him, student activities coordinator April Nakamura said, “Mr. Miyagi, you’ve always put people ahead of yourself. …And the only time you’ve ever stepped in front of somebody else was to take that hit for them. But not today. Today, we put you in front. Today, we honor you.”

During his high school career, Miyagi participated in JROTC and won a state title in judo. He graduated from MHS in 1966, then attended the University of Manoa and got his Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and a Masters of Business Administration degree. He worked full time for over 37 years in the United States Army, and was a certified Public Accountant for 11 years. Major General Miyagi was administrator for the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency. HEMA is responsible for providing relief and support during major disasters and emergencies. Miyagi also held a primary leadership position in the Hawaii State Civil Defense.

Former Governor of Hawaii Linda Lingle was present at the assembly and had a few words about Miyagi.

“You live (life) with respect for others. You live it with integrity and you live it the way he showed recently in front of a million people. And that is, you take responsibility. You step up when it requires you to step up. And he’s a role model for every student and faculty member in this school and he’s a role model for the people of Hawaii for the way he conducted himself these past two weeks.”

During the Hall of Honor assembly, Miyagi encouraged students to aspire to do great things.

“All of you have the same opportunities that we had then. Make the most of what you learn and experience,” Miyagi said. “Achieve your goals. You have so much to look forward to. You are our hope and future. Go for it.”