A 17-year-old Hawaii student, Kahiau Kawai, was rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard after spending nearly 12 hours treading water and clinging to his kayak. He had become separated from his high school paddling group and was spotted by an off-duty lifeguard around 4 a.m. on Thursday. The Coast Guard was alerted by the Honolulu Fire Department and launched a search and rescue operation involving an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter, HC-130 Hercules airplane, and a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew. Kawai was found in serious but stable condition and treated for injuries and hypothermia.
The teenage boy had reportedly capsized on a 20-foot surf ski and was not wearing a life jacket, which made his situation even more challenging. Noland Keaulana, the off-duty lifeguard who rescued Kawai, described him as being in a state of shock, though he expressed concern for his mother who he believed was missing him. Kawai’s parents released a statement expressing their gratitude to the rescue teams from the State, City & County, and Federal agencies who worked tirelessly through the night to search for their son. They also thanked the doctors and nurses who cared for him and everyone who prayed for his safe return.
The Coast Guard hailed Kawai’s rescue as an “amazing” operation, considering the length of time he spent in the water and the challenging circumstances he faced. The teenager’s resilience and bravery during those 11.5 hours in the dark were commended by his family, who were relieved to have him back safe and sound. Kawai’s ordeal serves as a reminder of the importance of water safety practices, such as wearing a life jacket, especially when engaging in activities like paddling in the ocean.
Videos released by the Coast Guard show the dramatic moment when Kawai was hoisted out of the water and brought to safety by the rescue teams. The operation involved coordination between multiple units, including air and sea crews, to locate the teenager who was adrift near the Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort. Kawai’s rescue was made possible thanks to the quick response of the authorities and the efforts of the off-duty lifeguard who spotted him and brought him to shore.
The teenager’s experience highlights the dangers of being stranded at sea without proper equipment or preparation. Hypothermia, dehydration, and exhaustion are serious risks that individuals face when caught in situations like Kawai’s. The importance of staying calm, conserving energy, and signaling for help in such circumstances cannot be understated. Kawai’s story serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community support in times of crisis. His safe return is a testament to the dedication and skill of the rescue teams who worked tirelessly to bring him back home.
