JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- The U.S. Air Force Band of the Pacific’s recent community outreach tour to Maui was about more than just sharing music with residents; it was an integral part of the Pacific Air Forces’ mission to strengthen community bonds across the Indo-Pacific region.
As Maui continues to rebuild following the devastating 2023 Lahaina wildfires, music has played a pivotal role in the recovery process, helping to foster a sense of unity and resilience within the community.
Grammy Award winner Lee Brice and PACAF Band’s “Hana Hou” shared the stage at the 10th Annual Maui Songwriter’s Festival, held on Jan. 15-18, 2025. The star-studded event celebrated the power of songwriting and music, but most importantly, it brought Hana Hou together with top artists and musicians to perform at local schools affected by the wildfires.
One stop on Hana Hou’s tour was Sacred Hearts School, which has been navigating the challenging process of rebuilding. Despite the hurdles, music has remained a vital part of the school’s recovery and sense of togetherness.
“As a displaced school that welcomed students back just three weeks after the Lahaina wildfire, one of the things that helped keep us together was music,” said Tonata Lolesia, Principal of Sacred Hearts School. “To have the band here to share the music with the kids... it’s very special. It’s good for our mental, social, emotional, and spiritual health.”
Hana Hou’s performance at Sacred Hearts School was a moment of joy and connection for students and teachers, who have been working tirelessly to rebuild not just the physical structures of the school but also the emotional and mental well-being of their community. The band’s music provided a sense of normalcy and celebration in the face of adversity.
“It’s an honor to share our music with Maui’s resilient people and to be part of the island’s healing journey,” said Staff Sgt. Sierra Kukan, PACAF Band of the Pacific vocalist. “They’ve been through so much. The sweetest little girl gave me a handmade note to tell us how much fun she had and about her cousin in the military.”
The outreach tour was a reminder of the profound impact music can have on individuals and communities in times of hardship. For the people of Maui, the visit from Hana Hou was more than just a concert—it was a symbol of hope, unity, and the power of music to bring people together.
As Maui continues its recovery, the island’s strong sense of aloha remains a source of strength. With performances like those from the USAF Band of the Pacific’s Hana Hou, the journey forward is filled with promise and optimism.