"La Hae Hawaii" or Hawaiian Flag Day

Date: July 29, 2005
Contact: Ernest D. Young, [phone] X 23

This year marks the 17th anniversary observance of "La Hae Hawaii" or Hawaiian Flag Day at Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site. Sunday, July 31, 2005 is Hawaiian Flag Day, observance will take place on Friday, July 29, 2005, from 9:00 a.m. and ending at 1:00 p.m... A 12 minute video presentation on the story of the Hawaiian Flag, written and produced by Hawaiian Flag Historian Patrick Ka'ano'i, will be shown throughout the day, at the visitor center on request.

Superintendent Daniel Kawaiaea invites the public to come and watch the video to learn more about the flag of Kamehameha the great. An exhibit of the very first Hawaiian Flag Day ceremony held in Hawaii, and The official or historically correct Hawaiian flag of Kamehameha I, will be on display for viewing on the grounds at the visitor center. It is a flag rich in history and international significance, having flown for governments representing the unified Kingdom and subsequently, the Provisional Government of Hawaii after the overthrow of the monarchy, the Republic of Hawaii, the Territory of Hawaii after annexation to the United States, and the State of Hawaii. Pu'ukohola Heiau is one of only three locations where the Hawaiian Flag has been dedicated with a Hawaiian ceremony to fly alone as a living symbol of the Hawaiian people. The other locations are 'Iolani Palace and Mauna 'ala Royal Mausoleum. On July 25, 2003 Mayor Harry Kim proclaimed July 31, 2003 as Hawaiian Flag Day. This program is made possible through the cooperation of the Huna Hanauna Society, Hawaii Natural History Association, Waimea Hawaiian Civic Club and the National Park Service of the U.S. Department of the Interior. For further information contact coordinator Park Ranger Ernest Young at Park Headquarters, # 882-7218 Ext.23.