Emerging as a testament to human resilience, 17-year-old Kahiau Kawai survived 12 arduous hours at sea after his kayak capsized near Waikiki.
At a Glance
- A 17-year-old boy was rescued after clinging to a capsized kayak for nearly 12 hours near Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort in Honolulu.
- He was separated from his high school paddling team and was not wearing a life jacket.
- The U.S. Coast Guard launched an extensive search operation involving aircraft and a response boat.
- An off-duty lifeguard, Noland Keaulana, motivated by personal connection, played a key role in the rescue.
The Ordeal and Response
Seventeen-year-old Kahiau Kawai faced a maritime nightmare when his kayak capsized near Waikiki Beach. The incident separated him from his school paddling team without a life jacket, setting off a series of life-threatening circumstances. Holding onto his overturned kayak, Kawai battled exhaustion and harsh ocean conditions. Responding to the distress, the U.S. Coast Guard initiated a comprehensive search operation at 7:27 p.m.
Utilizing an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter, an HC-130 Hercules airplane, and a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium, they scoured the area. Relentless in their efforts, the rescue team encountered numerous challenges as they scanned the vast Pacific waters for any sign of Kawai. Eventually, diligence prevailed when a Coast Guard airplane crew spotted him at 4:03 a.m. the following morning.
The Dramatic Rescue
Once Kawai was located, a flare was deployed to mark his position. A nearby boater, acting as a good Samaritan, was quickly directed to the distressed teen. Noland Keaulana, an off-duty lifeguard with the Honolulu Ocean Safety Department and a friend of Kawai’s family, arrived to assist in the rescue. Understanding the dire stakes, Keaulana quickly maneuvered to bring Kawai safely aboard the boat, ultimately ensuring a successful rescue and recovery operation.
The effort to return Kawai to safety didn’t end at sea. Upon reaching Ala Wai Harbor, immediate medical evaluation followed. Treated for hypothermia and injuries sustained during his extended ordeal, he was transported to an emergency room and found to be in serious but stable condition. Lieutenant Commander Nic Iannarone of the U.S. Coast Guard expressed relief at being able to provide joyful news to his family.
A Grateful Community
Kawai’s miraculous survival story resonated deeply within his community and rippled across broader circles. His parents voiced immense gratitude to everyone involved in the rescue and medical response, including thanks to the countless individuals who prayed fervently for his safe return. This incident underscores the critical role of emergency response teams and community intervention in crisis situations, exemplifying collaboration and compassion under pressure.
In the words of Lt. Cmdr. Nic Iannarone, bringing Kahiau Kawai back to safety was “an actionable demonstration of the intensity and resolve among search and rescue teams,” reminding us of the powerful capabilities in place to protect citizens in times of dire need.
