Hawaii News Now - KGMB and KHNL HomeHawaii Medals of Honor Bestowed

Hawaii Medals of Honor Bestowed

(KHNL) - The war on terror has claimed the lives of more than 120 people with Hawaii ties.

The state paid tribute to them Tuesday, by presenting their families with the new Hawaii Medal of Honor.

"There's nothing we can do to take away the pain and emptiness that you feel," said Gov. Linda Lingle. "We want you to know we appreciate what they did for us as Americans, so that our way of life could continue."

The Hawaii Medal of Honor was created by lawmakers this year, to honor the state's fallen servicemen and women.

120 of them were killed in Iraq and Afghanistan between March 2003 and February 2006. They were from every branch of the military, the reserves, and the National Guard.

"So great knowing that we are honoring the men and women of the Armed Services," said Keith Bolor. His twin brother, Kelly, was killed in Iraq in 2003. Kelly was a Guardsman from Maui, stationed in California.

"This is bringing back memories, knowing that we haven't forgotten on what they've done for our freedom," said Keith Bolor.

State officials say they created this Medal of Honor to make sure these servicemen who made the ultimate sacrifice are never forgotten.

"They were great Americans," said Lingle. "They are part of our ohana here in Hawaii."