University of Hawaii at Manoa NROTC Unit / Department of Naval Science

09/18/2026

Week 4 of the semester is just about wrapped up, stay active and stay motivated Koa O Ke Kai Battalion.

is committed to leading, training, and preparing prospective Navy and Marine Corps officers by emphasizing academic excellence, physical fitness, and leadership skills.

09/16/2026

Today’s leadership lab focused on drill, giving Midshipmen the opportunity to sharpen their discipline, attention to detail, and ability to work together as a unit.

Through repetition and teamwork, our Midshipmen continue to develop the skills and confidence needed to lead. ⚓️

Pictures were taken by Staff Sergeant Tara.

09/13/2026

Today, UH NROTC had the honor of presenting the Colors for the singing of the National Anthem and Hawaiʻi Ponoʻī at the University of Hawaiʻi vs. New Mexico State football game.

HPD Sergeant Cameron Tuitele led the stadium in the singing of both anthems, while an EMS helicopter conducted a flyover in remembrance of September 11 and in honor of all who have served and continue to serve our communities and nation.

We remember. We honor. We serve. 🇺🇸🌺

09/12/2026

Twenty-five years have passed since the attacks on September 11. While the world has changed considerably, the courage and sacrifice of those who answered the call have not been forgotten.

Through every step, we honor those who lost their lives and remembered the heroes who risked theirs in service to our nation. Their memory reminds us of the courage, character and commitment that continue to define those who serve.

You could’ve slept in today, but you chose to show up and honor those who came before you. That choice says a lot about your character, and we are proud of you all for carrying their memory forward.

01/02/2026

Adm. Steve Koehler, commander, , delivered remarks & administered the oath of office during a University of Hawaii Naval ROTC commissioning ceremony aboard the Battleship Missouri Memorial in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Dec. 19.
This is the fourth commissioning ceremony for the Koa O Ke Kai Battalion, the nation’s newest Naval ROTC unit, founded in 2021.
📍: Pearl Harbor
📸: MC2 Jeremy R. Boan

12/17/2025

For Navy officer candidate Gellie Cabuyadao, the path to her December 2025 graduation from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa reflects a deep commitment to service under extraordinary circumstances.

Gellie Cabuyadao, the first active-duty STA-21 Sailor, graduates from the NROTC program in fall 2025.

10/03/2025

Midshipmen from the Battalion received a briefing on personal finance and bid farewell to Ensign Nelson.

Second Lt. Abraham Palacios, shared his expertise on investment, savings and retirement planning for both midshipmen and active-duty service members.

Marine-option midshipmen also participated in a class on land navigation, learning critical skills that will serve them throughout Officer Candidates School and in their future careers as Marine Corps officers. The training emphasized practical application and reinforced the importance of discipline, preparation and adaptability in the field.

We wish Ensign Nelson fair winds and following seas as he departs for flight school. His journey from midshipman to commissioned officer is a testament to the dedication, mentorship and opportunities within the battalion, and is inspiring for current midshipmen to see the program’s impact come full circle.

is committed to leading, training and preparing prospective Navy and Marine Corps officers by emphasizing academic excellence, physical fitness and leadership skills.