A 17-year-old Hawaii student named Kahiau Kawai was rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard after spending nearly 12 hours treading water and clinging to his kayak. The student had become separated from his high school paddling group and was found by an off-duty lifeguard from the Honolulu Ocean Safety Department. Kawai had capsized on a 20-foot surf ski and was not wearing a life jacket, which prompted an urgent rescue operation by the Coast Guard. The operation involved the deployment of an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter, an HC-130 Hercules airplane, and a Response Boat-Medium crew.
The rescue took place in the waters of the Pacific Ocean, approximately half a mile south of the Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort. Kawai was spotted by the off-duty lifeguard around 4 a.m. on Thursday, and he was brought to safety. Despite his ordeal, Kawai remained remarkably calm and expressed concern for his mother, who was worried about him. The teenager was treated for injuries and hypothermia resulting from his prolonged exposure to the water. The U.S. Coast Guard Pacific described the rescue operation as amazing, highlighting Kawai’s resilience and the efforts of the rescue teams involved.
Kawai’s parents expressed their gratitude to the State, City & County, and Federal agency rescue teams that worked tirelessly through the night to search for their son. They praised Kawai for his strength, resilience, and bravery during the 11.5 hours he spent alone in the dark. The statement released by Kawai’s parents also thanked the doctors and nurses caring for him and acknowledged the support of everyone who prayed for his safe return. The community came together to support the Kawai family and celebrate the successful rescue of Kahiau.
The Coast Guard released video footage showing the moment Kawai was rescued from the water, adding to the dramatic story of his survival. The off-duty lifeguard who found Kawai described the emotional moment when he realized that the teenager was safe. Kawai’s calm demeanor and concern for his mother stood out to those involved in the rescue operation, demonstrating his maturity and courage in a crisis. The successful outcome of the rescue mission was a testament to the teamwork and dedication of the rescue teams, who worked tirelessly to locate and save Kawai from the ocean.
The teenager’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of water safety measures, such as wearing a life jacket when participating in water activities. Kawai’s ordeal could have ended tragically if not for the quick response of the Coast Guard and the off-duty lifeguard who spotted him. The community rallied around the Kawai family during the ordeal, offering prayers and support until Kahiau was safely reunited with his loved ones. The story of Kawai’s survival is a testament to the power of faith, courage, and the commitment of rescuers to saving lives in challenging circumstances.
In the aftermath of his rescue, Kawai expressed his gratitude for being back with his family and friends, emphasizing the importance of belief and perseverance in the face of adversity. His parents’ statement highlighted Kahiau’s strength and the unwavering support they received from the rescue teams and the community. The rescue of Kahiau Kawai from the waters of the Pacific Ocean was a heartwarming example of courage, resilience, and the power of hope in the face of adversity.
