HIRONO STATEMENT ON NEW PUNCHBOWL CEMETERY DIRECTOR

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mazie K. Hirono released the following statement in reaction on the selection of James Horton by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to serve as the director of the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl, effective March 9, 2014:

“Congratulations to Mr. Horton on being selected to oversee Punchbowl. As the only national cemetery in Hawaii, with more than five million visitors each year, Punchbowl plays a critical role in honoring the service and memory of the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces. I am looking forward to speaking with Mr. Horton as he transitions into his new role to learn more about his vision for this special cemetery.”

A strong advocate for veterans, service members and their families, Hirono recently worked with leadership at Punchbowl and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Shinseki to help resolve issues with publication of available gravesites at Punchbowl. Moving forward, Hirono will continue to work with employees at Punchbowl and the VA to help ensure that those who have served and sacrificed for our nation receive the respect they deserve. The Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported on Hirono’s work in a January 18 article by William Cole.