2nd Annual Salute to Women - May 5th, 2000
2000 HONORESS:
LUCILLE M. ABREU
On September 9, 1953, Lucille Abreu was appointed as a Policewoman with the Honolulu Police Department's Crime Prevention Division, later know as the Juvenile Crime Prevention Division. After taking the Sergeants exam several times but not being promoted Lucille worked with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission to break the barriers and end sex discrimination on the force. Because of Lucille's efforts in 1974, for the first time in HPD History female applicants began the screening process to be hires as police officers on an equal basis with males. Lucille's continued efforts also lead to the department abolishing the height requirement for recruits, and to the promotion of female officers to higher-ranking position. Lucille is a pioneer who has paved the way for women in law enforcement careers.
BARBARA UPHOUSE WONG
Assistant Chief Barbara Wong was one of the first two female Recruits of the Honolulu Police Department, brought in as police officers on an equal basis with males. Barbara joined the Honolulu Police Department as a recruit in the 63rd recruit class. Barbara was one of the first two females to work in the Tactical Operations Division, which was the forerunner for what is now the Specialized Service Division. Barbara has dedicated the past 25 years to the Honolulu Police Department, and is currently the highest ranking female in the department. Her accomplishments as a police officer are legendary and her achievements in the face of competition and other obstacles along the way are inspirational. Barbara is a role model and remarkable example for women in law enforcement careers.
Elaine Walsh Akau
Elaine Akau is the Safety and Security Manager of Shriners Hospitals for Children. She has established the environment of care program and is consistent in her enforcement standards required by the Joint Commission; she along with the other staff last year enjoyed a score of 99.4 with commendation. Elaine is a highly respected member of the safety and security management field. She is dedicated to making a difference, and keeping people safe.
Major Donna Anderson
Major Donna Anderson is the Commander of Internal Affairs, Honolulu Police Department. She is the first female office to attend the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) Academy in 1993 where she set two records in physical training for ups and push-ups. Previous assignments included serving as Executive Officer of the Criminal Investigation Division, Waikiki patrol, and undercover narcotics agent.
Colette Aoki
Colette Aoki is recognized for her continued support and generous contributions to the Law Enforcement Appreciation Luncheon (LEAL), Hawaii Joint Police Association, American Society of Industrial Security and other security and la enforcement association and industry events. Her corporate participation and design expertise has resulted in treasures that have our industry events spectacular.
Bernadine A. Ayer
Bernadine Ayer was selected as the Chief of the Pacific Division Counterintelligence Directorate, naval Criminal Investigative Service Headquarters, Washington Navy Yard, Washington D.C. Mrs. Ayer as then chosen to be the first female Special Agent in Charge of the NCIS Field Office Hawaii where she is currently assigned. Her professionalism and achievements have made her a positive role model for many women in the military and civilian arenas.
Lani Bjork
Lani Bjork is the Director of Safety and Security for the Hilton Hawaiian Village, and their Hawaii Resort Safety and Security Regional lead. She has provided security protection for many dignitaries and celebrities throughout her career. She has more than 30 years of experience in Law Enforcement and Private Security. Lani is actively involved in local, national, and international security associations. She is the President of the Hawaii Hotel Security Association and a member of the American Society of Industrial Security and Hawaii Visitor Industry Security Association. Lani's dedication and achievements set an example for all of us in the private security industry.
Doveline Fyfe Kaaloalaikini Notley Steer, Jr. Borges
Ms. Borges is a Recreation Specialist with Corrections. She just recently transferred to Oahu Community Correctional Center (OCCC) on March 17th after having worked at Halawa Correctional Facility since February 1993. While assigned to HCF she was most instrumental in developing outstanding recreational activities for incarcerated inmates that proved to be most creative and innovative which improved the overall morale and stability of the environment for the inmates as well as staff. She is also a strong supporter of the Hawaii Joint Police Association and an inspiration to women in the Correction and throughout the public and private sector.
First Sergeant (1SG) Vicki L. Cozy
First Sergeant Cozy has been an outstanding Military Police soldier for 18 years. She has many prestigious assignments to include: Drill Sergeant, MP Working Dog Handler, Unarmed Self Defense Instructor, Training Officer, Operations Officer and Force Protection Officer. As the US Army's Senior Military Police Noncommissioned Officer in Hawaii, she now holds the prestigious leadership position as First Sergeant, Fort Shafter Military Police Company. As the 1SG she is responsible for the law enforcement certification, training and welfare of 160 military police officers and support personnel.
Sergeant Lynn Cypert
Sergeant Cypert began her military law enforcement career in January 1993 with the 10th Area Support Group in Okinawa Japan. While serving there she demonstrated superior leadership and professional competence where she flawlessly directed law enforcement operations for all United Stated Army installations. She is currently assigned to the 25th Military Police Company where she continues to demonstrate technical proficiency in her law enforcement duties on Schofield Barracks installation as a Patrol Supervisor. She is an outstanding role model for the young Military Police soldiers throughout the 25th military Police Company and the Military Police Corps..
Detective Letha DeCaires
Detective Letha DeCaires is currently the Crime Stoppers Coordinator. Her hard work and dynamic leadership have helped Crime Stoppers achieve unparalleled levels of success. Her dedication has allowed Crime Stoppers to put many of Hawaii's fugitives back in custody. Letha also works closely with the community and industry associations and groups to promote and educate the public. In addition, she graciously served on the committee that helps make today's program successful. Letha's dedication and boundless enthusiasm are an inspiration for all of us.
Elizabeth Jane Gavin
Jane Gavin is the assistant director of security for the Navy Exchange. Jane has over 20 years experience with the Navy Exchange. She actively develops loss prevention programs designed to reduce losses and protect profits at the Navy Exchange. Jane has extensive knowledge in investigation and retail loss prevention. Jane tirelessly devotes her time and efforts to better the community and the law enforcement and private security industries.
Lisa Hamada
Lisa Hamada is a strong supporter of the law enforcement community and the Hawaii Joint Police Association. In her position at Sonitrol of Hawaii and as a member and secretary of the Hawaii Joint Police Association, Lisa has been instrumental in the growth of the HJPA. Her strong commitment to the association and the private security industry has been an inspiration and has made a significant impact on the positive changes in the industry.
Major Karen Kaniho
Major Karen Kaniho currently serves as the Commander Training Department, Honolulu Police Department. For eight years she was a negotiator and coordinator of the police Crisis (Hostage) Negotiations Team. She is an Advisory Board Member of the Missing Child Center Hawaii. Major Kaniho is an adjunct lecturer at the Honolulu Community College, Chaminade University of Honolulu, and Hawaii Pacific University.
Major Terri Kohler
Major Terri Kokler is the commander of the U.S. army Criminal Investigation Command Hawaii Field Office. She has more than 15 years experience in the military. Her accomplishments include many awards and decorations such as the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Joint Meritorious Service Medal, Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation, Expert field Medical Badge, Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, and German Armed Forces Efficiency Badge. Terri's achievements and leadership set an example for women in the military and civilian arenas.
Lieutenant Colonel Vida D. Longmire
Lt. Colonel Vida Longmire is the battalion Commander, Provost Marshal, Fort Shafter. Vida has more than 19 years experience in Military Police Corps. Her Accomplishments include many awards and decorations, such as the Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal, Armed Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon with two Oak Leaf Clusters, air assault Badge, and Army Parachutist Badge. Her assignments include a myriad of command assignments in the Military Corps. Vida's dedication, commitment and achievements are an inspiration to men and women in the military and throughout our industry. Vida's contributions and support have significantly aided in the growth and development of the law enforcement and private security industries and the Hawaii Joint Police Association.
Staff Sergeant Brandy L. Martinoli
Staff Sergeant Brandy L. Martinoli distinguished herself by meritorious service while assigned to Detachment 1, 15th Group, Bellows Air Force Station, Hawaii, from 22 June 1966 to present. During this period, Sergeant Martinoli served as the Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of Resource Management. Handpicked, she masterfully worked with the United States Secret Service to provide security for the vacation of the President and First Lady at Bellows. Sergeant Martinoli's continuous achievements set a precedent as she was recognized three consecutive years as the Bellows Air Force Station Airman, then NCO of the year.
Patricia Moy
Patricia Moy is the Senior Enforcement Attorney in charge of Securities Enforcement Branch of the Department Of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. She has held the position since 1996. She currently supervises a staff of 4 attorneys, an auditor, 6 investigators and 4 clerical staff. The Securities Enforcement Branch is responsible for the enforcement of the state's Uniform Securities Act, which monitors and oversees the solicitation and sale securities in Hawaii.
Doctor Gloria Neuman
Dr. Gloria Neuman is the sole psychologist providing individual, couples, and family therapy for over 2000 sworn officers and civilian personnel. She has had an extremely positive upon the Honolulu Police Department and community at large owing to her most invaluable knowledge, abilities and skills in providing psychological and emotional support to the department. We are most grateful for her most generous contributions to industry organization, including the Hawaii Joint Police association and the American Society for Industrial Security. She graciously served on the committee that helped make today's program successful.
Staff Sergeant Johnnie L. Smith
Staff Sergeant Johnnie Smith represents what is best about the Air Force and exemplifies its core values. At Hickam, she was the primary patrolman assisting the Air Force Office of Special Investigations in a drug sting operation. Her actions helped eliminate a serious illegal drug ring from Hickam Air Force Base. She has devoted countless off duty hours to these young women, and all have passed benefited greatly. She is truly mentor and role model.
Mary Sullivan-Souza CPP
Mary Souza is the director of security for the Orchid at Mauna Lani, a member of the Luxury Collection properties, a division of Starwood Hotel & Resorts. Mary has more than 17 tears of security and safety experience. Her security experience includes security management at Sanyo Manufacturing, the Kaua'i Lagoons Resort, and her current position at the Orchid at Mauna Lani. Mary is actively involved in local, national, and international security associations. She is a member of the American Society of Industrial Security, and has been certified as a Certified Protection Professional (CPP). She is also a member of the Hawaii Hotel Association, Big Island Chapter, and has served as past President, Vice President and Secretary. Mary also serves as the chairperson for the Security Association Annual Conference Year 2000.
Margaret Grinder Tippy
Margaret Tippy became the Tripler Army Medical Center Public Affairs Officer in May of 1998. Her civilian awards include the Thomas Jefferson Aware of Excellence in Journalism for Significant Contribution in Civilian Newspaper-1987, U.S. Army Forces Command Civilian Print Journalist of the Year-1987. Margaret is one of the few civilian who is a recipient of the Order of Military Medical Merit presented in December of 1997-a great honor in the military medical community. Her most recent award is the Department of Army Superior Civilian Service Award for meritorious performance. Margaret is a member and a strong supporter of the Hawaii Joint Police Association and the law enforcement and private security industry.
Mary Wagner
Sergeant Mary Wagner is a member of the Maui Police Department. She is currently the only Maui Police Department civilian commander. She is responsible for the Records Division. She has been employed with HPD from 1990-1997 as an evidence specialist and supervisor. Her past experience includes positions in the Joliet Illinois Police department and Honolulu Police department.
Sergeant Debra Wilson
Debra Wilson is a training Supervisor at the Ke Kula Maka'I Honolulu Police Academy in Waipahu. Debra has over 18 years of service with HPD and she was the first female officer to ride in the prestigious Traffic Division solo Bike Detail. She was also the first female officer to complete the physical agility and strength test requirements for the Special services Division (HPD's version of "SWAT"). Debra has also represented HPD at the Police Olympics and won medals in the areas of swimming, volleyball, racquetball, and softball.
Winnie Wilson
Winnie Wilson is the director of safety and security for Straub Clinic and Hospital. Winnie is responsible for managing the contract guard force, security investigations, security operations, and physical security of the property. Winnie is a member of the International Association of Hospital Security and Safety, and is actively involved in community and industry activities. Winnie is a role model and example for women in the private security industry.
Mary Beck Wong
Mary Beck Wong is currently the Chief Deputy for the U.S. Marshals Service in Guam and the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands. Mary Beck Wong was one of the first two females recruits of the Honolulu Police department. Mary was one of the first women to work in Tactical Operations Divisions, the forerunner for what is now called the Specialized Service Division. Mary along with her fellow "HPD first year females" are truly pioneers in Hawaii's law enforcement history.
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