The Ihe Award

In ancient Hawai’i, a warrior in service to the Chief kept himself in readiness to meet every challenge.  Perfect physical condition and mental alertness were essential to his quick response to meet any demand.  One symbol of this readiness was the spear, or Ihe, which was always at the warrior’s side.

Each year the Hawai’i Army Museum Society (HAMS) recognizes a member of our community for their contributions to both the military and civilian communities as well as their dedicated service to the people of Hawai’i.  Our Ihe Award was commissioned with these concepts in mind.  A warrior within our community always ready and quick to respond to the needs of both the military, civilian and local people of Hawai’i.

The design of the award characterizes and embodies the spear essential to a warrior’s readiness.   The award is constructed of koa wood and is supported by a block of ‘ohi’a wood, both unique to Hawai’i. They are strong and solid, and appropriate for the recognition of Hawai’i’s warriors, also known as koa. The base is of specially selected rock to indicate the solid foundation of the ever-ready warrior.  The artist Umi Kai enhanced the concept of preparedness by adding the essence of the ‘o’o, the ancient tool utilized by farmers, symbolizing the care and nurturing of the ‘aina, the land and its people.

Throughout the years we’ve honored a number of warriors and are happy to provide this video library of our more recent recipients.  We hope you will enjoy and choose to participate in November when we celebrate our next Ihe Award recipient.