Many close to Senator Inouye said just being back home surrounded by the people he loved is what would make him the most happy.
The service held today at Punchbowl was exactly that- a time for his family, brothers in the 442nd, coworkers and friends to remember him.
Hundreds came to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific today to pay their respects to Senator Daniel Inouye.
"It’s an honorable occasion for us to remember Senator Inouye. He was a giant among men, a hero among heroes," says Ronald Oba, 442nd Regimental Combat Team.
Fellow World War 2 veterans in the 442nd regimental combat team were among the first to arrive.
Then came fellow members of congress, Hawaii dignitaries and family members
There was room for about 250 members of the public as well, some who had been waiting hours in line to secure their spot
At around 9:45 am everyone was asked to take their seats as the Presidential motorcade arrived and President Obama and the first lady were escorted to their seats.
A 19 gun cannon salute was fired with the arrival of Senator Inouye’s coffin.
And the crowd of 12-hundred fell silent as it was carried front and center.
Admiral Samuel Locklear talked about Inouye’s service to our country
"We have lost an irreplaceable American," he said.
And the Senator’s closest colleagues described his contributions to the Senate and state of Hawaii
"Over the course of his senate career, Danny steered billions of dollars to Hawaii. He was in a unique position to ensure that the islands he loved so much were not forgotten in the national discussions," said Sen. Harry Reid, Senate Majority Leader.
"He opened doors and made it possible for minorities like me and later Pres. Obama, and so many others to serve at the highest levels," said Senator Daniel Akaka.
His staff, talked about the Senator’s final moments…
"Senator Inouye left us on Monday, December 17th in the same way in which he lived his life, in control, peacefully calm, and believe me, giving out instructions til the very end," said Jennifer Sabas, Inouye’s Chief of Staff.
Everyone had the chance to remember Senator Inouye in their own way.
But his legacy lives on…and there are reminders of his life and service all over the state.
"Dan Inouye’s legacy is not only the loving family he leaves behind, it can be seen on every part of every island of this place we call Hawaii. Dan Inouye is Hawaii, and Hawaii is Dan Inouye," said Senator Akaka. "My brother, aloha oe, a hui ho."
As a special tribute, Senator Jon Tester from Montana played taps at today’s service.
And the song "Danny Boy" was played by the Celtic Pipes and Drums of Hawaii, at the request of Senator Inouye’s family.
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
