Koa Kai Award - West

Geographic Scope: Pearl Harbor, Hawaii waterfront

Eligibility:

• Navy enlisted sailors (E-6 and junior)
• Must be stationed on a surface ship home-ported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii

Focus Areas: Recognition of sailors who have demonstrated exceptional professional competence based on:

• Watch team back up
• Leading from the front
• Proactive problem solving
• Investment in the training of peers and subordinates

Award Benefit: Incident to the award is a Hawaiian vacation experience fully funded by the Billy Hurley III Foundation

Background: Koa Kai is Hawaiian for "sea warrior" and became important to Billy Hurley III during his active duty time aboard USS CHUNG-HOON (DDG 93) whose motto is "Imua e, na koa kai" (Go forward, sea warriors).

Application Process

Application Period: Opens October 6, 2025; Closes October 22, 2025

Required Information:

1. Confirmation of Pearl Harbor, HI station assignment
2. First Name
3. Last Name
4. Preferred Name (if different)
5. Rank (written out and abbreviated)
6. Years of military service
7. Ship assignment
8. Duty Phone
9. Cell Phone
10. Email
11. Street Address
12. City
13. State
14. Zip Code
15. Spouse's Name
16. Children's Name(s) and Age(s)
17. Primary Shipboard Duties
18. Secondary Duties
19. Essay: Describe how you exemplify the Koa Kai award

Required Supporting Material:

• Endorsement from Chain of Command: One person in sailor's Chain of Command must send an endorsement email to KoaKaiAward@billyhurley3.com
  • Subject Line: "BH3F Koa Kai Award – West ICO [Sailor's Name]"

Note: All sections are required; if not applicable put "N/A"