SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii (May 24, 2013) -- Honoring years of service to the school and community, the first Harry Kwon Scholarships were awarded at May Day ceremonies, here, May 17.
A foundation honoring retired Command Sgt. Maj. Harry Kwon, who serves the school as a safety officer, recognized him for his leadership, dedication, mentorship, integrity and loyalty.
Students who exemplify his traits were also honored.
"When I think of Mr. Kwon, two words come to mind, 'selfless dedication.' He is always so supportive and always dedicated to the Solomon ohana," said Theresa Hopkins, military spouse who helped create the Kwon foundation.
The scholarship foundation was established to support military students in their future endeavors after high school. Though military families undergo permanent change of station (PCS) and expiration of term of service (ETS) moves, Solomon officials still wanted a way for all students to know how much they are valued, even at a young age.
Students were nominated by their peers and rated for qualities Kwon exhibits on a daily basis.
"Mr. Kwon is one of the best teachers I had in high school," said Elizabeth Jondreau, a former student of Kwon. "He is and always will be a great role model."
Born and raised on Maui, Kwon served with distinction in the Army for 27 years, including two tours of duty in Vietnam. Since his retirement from the military, he has been actively working with adults and young people as an adult corrections officer and as an Army JROTC instructor for Leilehua High School. He retired after 15 years in the latter position. The last eight years he has served as Solomon Elementary School security attendant.
While at Solomon, Kwon has volunteered his time as the junior police officer adviser. For seven years under his guidance and dedication, JPOs received six superior ratings by the Honolulu Police Department.
Kwon was also selected for the "Ola Pono" award in 2005. His love for children provides him with the motivation to stay active and young.
"Mr. Kwon is a genuine treasure at Solomon Elementary. His dedication to the students, families and staff are cherished by all," said Ajifu Solomon, principal, Solomon Elementary. "Mr. Kwon graciously serves the Solomon Elementary community to ensure the success of all students."
"Mr. Kwon is as much a part of Solomon Elementary as anyone could ever be," said Ana Sanchez, school transition coordinator. "His loyalty and dedication to our military families never goes unnoticed, and we are very blessed that we have had the honor to know him and to learn from him."
2013 Harry Kwon Foundation Scholarship Recipients
Each recipient, below, received a $50 savings bond and a Solomon coin for exemplary achievements.
•Ashley Adams (daughter of Sgt. Roy Adams , Company C, 209th Aviation Support Bn., 25th Combat Avn. Bde., 25th Infantry Division, and Mrs. Adams)
•Cheyenne Meeks (daughter of Staff Sgt. Nathan Meeks, Headquarters and Headquarters Co., 45th Sustainment Bde., 8th Theater Sust. Command, and Mrs. Meeks)
•Gabrielle Pino (daughter of Staff Sgt. Loren Pino, 643rd Maintenance Co., 84th Engineer Bn., 130th Eng. Bde., 8th TSC, and Mrs. Pino)
•Miranda Uribe (daughter of Spc. Andrew Uribe, 84th Bn., 561st MP Bde., 8th TSC, and Mrs. Uribe)
•Gracelyn Willis (daughter of Staff Sgt. Justin Willis, HHD, 728th MP Bn., 8th MP Bde., 8th TSC, and Mrs. Willis)
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