KIUC's Rate Case - Kauai Island Utility Cooperative

In the past, like many other Americans, I took the U.S. Navy for granted, thinking it was for young kids to see
the world and career officers to put in their time prior to some cushy government job.
Recently, I had the opportunity, courtesy of the Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet's DV Program to fly to the
nuclear aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis, spend two days on it on an official tour, observing day and night
flight and other operations, and was catapaulted off its deck. I came away with so much respect and
appreciation for these men and women in the Navy and other military branches. There were 19- and 20-yearold
personnel responsible for the multi-million dollar jets, bombs and nuclear reactors. What I saw, from the
Commander on down to the enlisted men, was so much dedication, order and perfection. I was very impressed
with the captain and the crew of the USS John C. Stennis.
They are our ambassadors to the rest of the world. They are prepared to protect us at the drop of a hat.
We sit at home complaining about nuclear power in our backyards, while we expect these men and women to
live above nuclear reactors, bombs and millions of gallons of jet fuel.
Those of you who have served in the United States military, I take my hat off to you. No rhetoric will
adequately express my appreciation. All I can say is “Thank you.”
Thank you and God bless those who have served and those serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Because of you, I
can say I am proud to be an American.
10 KIUC CURRENTS
Aloha,
Dennis M. Esaki