U.S. Army Garrison Pohakuloa Training Area was named as a recipient of the 2024 Army Community Partnership Award, highlighting the exceptional collaboration between the Army and Hawaii Fire Department to improve readiness, adaptability and quality of life for military and community members.

The award, presented at the Pentagon on May 15, was accepted by PTA Commander Lt. Col. Timothy Alvarado and HFD Fire Chief Kazuo Todd.

The honor recognizes a dedication to joint training, integrated resources and enhanced capabilities demonstrating a marked impact in recent years, according to a press release.

“This distinction reflects our deep commitment to build lasting relationships with our surrounding communities,” Alvarado said in the press release. “Together, we are stronger, more resilient, and better prepared to support both the Army mission and the well-being of our neighbors.”

PTA is utilized by state and local government agencies in addition to all military branches and the Hawaii National Guard.

Over the last five years, the continuing collaboration with HFD resulted in approximately 13,000 hours of training at PTA by firefighters and recruits, including those from across all islands. PTA personnel successfully responded to 37 requests for mutual aid emergencies from local first responders in the last six months alone.

“It is great to be recognized at this level for the efforts Hawaii County’s fire department is putting in to support the Army,” Mike Diehl, PTA fire chief, said in the release. “With the history of our two organizations and what we have accomplished together over the past few years, we can serve our community better.”

The Army Community Partnership Program recognizes installations that take initiative on community engagement by developing shared service agreements and joint directives with local municipalities, schools, and local organizations.