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C. Kimo Alameda, Ph.D. <br />Mayor <br />William V. Brilhante, Jr. <br />Managing Director <br />Merrick Nishimoto <br />Deputy Managing Director <br />County of Hawaii - Oytce of the -"Mayor <br />25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawai'i 96720 • Phone (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553 <br />KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy., Bldg C • Kailua-Kona, Hawai'i 96740 <br />Phone (808) 323-4444 • Fax (808) 323-4440 <br />CD <br />CZ <br />June 19, 2025 —52 <br />.,0 C)—< <br />Council Chair Dr. Holeka Goro Inaba <br />and Members of the Hawai'i County Council <br />County of Hawai'i <br />25 Aupuni Street, Suite 1402 <br />Hilo, HI 96720 <br />Re: Nomination of Wayne T. Nishijima to the Veterans Advisory Committee. <br />Aloha Council Chair Inaba and Council Members, <br />I am pleased to nominate Wayne T. Nishijima to the Veterans Advisory Committee. <br />As a long-time resident of Hawai'i Island for 79 years, Mr. Nishijima has demonstrated an <br />unwavering commitment to both our community and our nation. <br />With an impressive military background, Mr. Nishijima served actively in the Army for three <br />years, followed by 11 years in the Army Reserves and an additional 14 years in the Hawai'i <br />Army National Guard. His extensive military experience speaks volumes about his dedication <br />and service to our country, and I believe he will bring invaluable perspectives and insights into <br />the committee. <br />In addition to his military service, Mr. Nishijima is exceptionally qualified academically. He holds <br />a Bachelor of Science in Forest Sciences from the University of Washington, and a Master of <br />Science in Plant Pathology from the University of Hawai'i. Further enriching his expertise, he <br />earned a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology from the University of Wisconsin. His educational background <br />empowers him to contribute thoughtfully to veterans' issues, particularly those that intersect with <br />environmental and agricultural challenges. <br />Wayne's combination of military service and advanced academic achievements uniquely <br />positions him to advocate for our veterans and address their needs. I wholeheartedly believe he <br />would be a tremendous asset to the Veterans Advisory Committee, providing guidance and <br />support to enhance the lives of those who have served. <br />If confirmed, Mr. Nishijima will serve a term to expire on December 31, 2029. If you have any <br />questions, please feel free to reach out to me or my office. <br />NO 45-day4eadline 07) <br />Conm- <br />County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. <br />5 <br />Ref. Oate <br />