Orders, decorations, and medals of Hawaii facts for kids
Have you ever wondered how people are honored for doing great things? In Hawaiʻi, just like in many other places around the world, there are special awards called orders, decorations, and medals. These are given to people who have shown amazing courage, served their country, or achieved something truly special. These awards were given out during different times in Hawaiʻi's history: when it was a kingdom, then a republic, and now as a state of the United States.
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Kingdom of Hawaiʻi Awards
When Hawaiʻi was a kingdom, its rulers gave out special awards to honor people. These awards showed how much the kingdom valued their service and achievements.
Royal Orders
Royal Orders were like special clubs or groups that people could join if they were recognized by the King or Queen. Each order had its own special medal or badge.
The Royal Order of Kamehameha I was named after the great King Kamehameha I, who united the Hawaiian Islands. It was given for outstanding service to the kingdom.
The Royal Order of Kalākaua I was created by King Kalākaua. It honored people who did great things for Hawaiʻi, especially in arts, sciences, or government.
The Royal Order of Kapiʻolani was named after Queen Kapiʻolani, King Kalākaua's wife. This order recognized people who helped with education, health, or other good causes.
The Royal Order of the Crown of Hawaiʻi was another award from King Kalākaua. It honored people who served the Hawaiian Crown with loyalty and dedication.
The Royal Order of the Star of Oceania was meant to honor people who helped Hawaiʻi connect with other nations in the Pacific Ocean.
The Royal Household Order for Ladies was a special award just for women who served the royal family.
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Royal Medals
Besides the Royal Orders, there were also special medals given for specific events or achievements.
The King David Kalākaua Election Medal was given to celebrate King Kalākaua's election as monarch.
The Professional Career's Cross honored people who had long and successful careers serving the kingdom.
The Royal Hawaiian Agricultural Society Medal was given to people who helped improve farming and agriculture in Hawaiʻi.
The Coronation Medal of Kalākaua I was created to remember the special ceremony where King Kalākaua was officially crowned.- The The Round the World Medal was given to people who traveled around the world, perhaps with the King himself.
Republic of Hawaiʻi Awards
After the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi ended, a new government called the Republic of Hawaiʻi was formed. This republic also had its own awards.
- The National Guard of Hawaiʻi Medal was given to members of the National Guard, who helped protect the republic.
State of Hawaiʻi Awards
Today, Hawaiʻi is a state of the United States. The state continues to honor its citizens, especially those in the Hawaii National Guard.
Hawaii National Guard State Awards
The Hawaii National Guard is a group of soldiers and airmen who serve both the state and the country. They receive special awards for their bravery and service.
The Hawaii Medal of Honor is the highest award for extreme bravery.
The Hawaii Medal for Valor is given for heroic actions.
The Hawaii Distinguished Service Order recognizes outstanding service.
The Hawaii Medal for Merit is for excellent performance.
The Hawaii Commendation Medal is for notable achievements.
The Hawaii Service Medal (type 2) is given for general service.
The Hawaii State Active Duty Ribbon is for serving on active duty for the state.
The Hawaii 1968 Federal Service Ribbon is for federal service in 1968.
The Hawaii Active Duty Basic Training Ribbon is for completing basic training.
The Hawaii Hurricane Iniki Ribbon is for helping during Hurricane Iniki.
The Hawaii Operation Kokua Ribbon is for participating in Operation Kokua.
The Hawaii Recruiting Ribbon is for helping recruit new members.
Other State Honors
Besides military awards, Hawaiʻi also has a special way to honor people who have made great contributions to the culture and community.
- The Living Treasures of Hawaiʻi award has been given since 1976. It honors older people who have kept traditional Hawaiian arts, crafts, and wisdom alive. This award is given by the Buddhist temple Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaiʻi.
See also
In Spanish: Órdenes, condecoraciones y medallas de Hawái para niños
