HILO, Hawaii – Captain Garrett Kim was named “Fire Fighter of the Year” by the Aloha Exchange Club during a dinner ceremony at Hilo’s Nani Mau Gardens on Thursday, March 24.

Captain Kim has worked for the Fire Department for 15 years and is currently assigned to the Kaumana Fire Station. He was recognized for spearheading several programs that benefit the Fire Department and the community.

A media release says Kim obtained the grant money, instructors, and developed the class outline for the Fire Department Fire Ground Survival Program. He led the group to obtain grant money and development of the Fire Department’s Firefighter Peer Fitness Program. He has been an advocate for raising awareness of cancer prevention within the Fire Department. And he has frequently served as planning section chief in the Fire Department’s assistance to the county’s response to dengue fever.

“Captain Kim has accomplished all of these things and much more, without ever seeking any type of recognition,” said Captain Christian Wong, who nominated him. “He has accomplished all of these things out of genuine concern for his fellow firefighters and service to the community. The development of all these programs and the acquisition of hundreds of thousands of dollars in grant money to support them has been a great value to this community.”

Kim received a plaque from the Aloha Exchange Club, a gift basket of donated items from local businesses and certificates of commendation from the mayor’s office, the governor’s office, the state Legislature and the Hawaiʻi County Council.

officer Ryan Pagan was also honored as “Officer of the Year” during the same event.