On August 18, 2025, the soldiers of the 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds” warmly welcomed four orphaned children from Holy Family Home in Osaka, Japan, upon their arrival at Daniel K. Inouye Airport in Honolulu. The visit, which is set to last two weeks, is part of a special program hosted by the 27th Infantry Regiment in collaboration with Peace Bridge.
As the children disembarked, they were greeted by Lieutenant Colonel Teddy Borawski and his wife, Molly Borawski, who expressed their excitement for the guests. The children, all 11 years old, included Kanami Tomioka, Umi Ihara, Ryota Takashiba, and Ryuki Taura. Each child was presented with a warm welcome that included traditional Hawaiian leis and a variety of snacks.
The atmosphere at the airport was filled with joy as the children introduced themselves to their hosts. Governor Josh Green was also present to assist Kanami Tomioka with her lei, further highlighting the community’s support for the initiative. Among the attendees was Kolchak XVII, a six-year-old Borzoi Wolfhound, adding an endearing touch to the event.
In a delightful ceremony, Command Sergeants Major Eugene Mirador and Jason Chase participated in a cake-cutting ceremony using a saber, symbolizing the occasion’s significance. The event featured handmade signs that welcomed the children, showcasing the community’s enthusiasm for their visit.
As the children made their way through the airport, they were surrounded by smiles and cheers, including the traditional Hawaiian gesture of the shaka. Kanami Tomioka beamed with joy, while Ryota Takashiba proudly walked down the hall adorned in his lei.
The 27th Infantry Regiment and Peace Bridge aim to create lasting connections between the children and the local community during their stay. This initiative not only provides a unique experience for the children but also fosters cross-cultural understanding and support.
The visit underscores the commitment of the 27th Infantry Regiment to engage with the broader community and make a positive impact on the lives of these young guests. As they embark on their Hawaiian adventure, the hope is that the memories made during this visit will be cherished for years to come.