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Aloha everyone,
Are there any military stores, exchanges or medical facilities available on the island? Also how is the military and the retired military viewed there? Is there a strong mistrust of the military or are they generaly accepted as in other locations?
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There is a small PX at the KMC in Volcano National Park. Vacation cabins are available to Military and retired Military. Google KMC for details.
Hawaii is blessed with one of the better VA healthcare systems in the country(IMHO). In Hilo we have a primary care facility, which arranges neccessary specialized care through local Doctors, or by sending vets to the excellent Sparks Matsunaga VA facility in the Tripler complex on Oahu.
Most military presence here are reservists; well respected and from all walks of life. There are a lot of vets here that represent virtually every socio economic strata.
Hope this helps, thanks for serving.
Stoneface
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I believe there is a more substantial PX facility at the Hilo Airport. Opposite side of the road from the Post Office. The military compound there is currently under expansion.
As for the reception.... be careful at the prince Kuhio Mall in Hilo. I have seen service members in uniform approached by citizens and randomly thanked for their service. Done it myself in fact.
Assume the best and ask questions.
Punaweb moderator
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Ditto to the "Thanks for Your service"!! I'm not sure where/when you served or why we sent you but I'm damn sure thankful that you were there for us when we asked. God Bless You and yours.. [:I]
Blessings,
dave
"It doesn't mean that much to me.. to mean that much to you." Neil Young
Blessings,
dave
"It doesn't mean that much to me.. to mean that much to you." Neil Young
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Just a heads up, if you are looking for a transfer to PTA - it is not a tropical location - 6,000' altitude, miles from just about ANYTHING, in the middle of a high altitude desert/lava field, fairly cool temps. too (but some pretty good pig & wild bird hunting not too far away).
Only giving the heads up 'cuase I know some that have transfered & had a big surprise!
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Aloha, Every six months or so one of the big commissarys from Oahu comes to the National Guard facility and has a case lot sale. The savings are good but in most instances you need to buy a case off whatever. There is a Big Island Military Retired Association ( BIRMA) that meets for lunch at various spots around the Island. contact: nfherbert@hawaiiantel.net
for info.
Ron E Smith
