Skip to Main Nav Skip to Main Content Skip to Footer Content

BIVTC Honors Veterans

Posted on Nov 21, 2019 in Featured News, News & Reports

 

November is an important month for the Big Island Veterans Treatment Court (BIVTC). The program was launched in November 2014, and is now celebrating five successful years of operations. BIVTC staff and supporters also commemorate the Veterans Day Holiday, and honor veterans all month long.

The program held a special court ceremony to celebrate its 15th graduate on November 6, in Kona.

Judge Melvin Fujino with the Big Island Veterans Treatment Court’s 15th graduate, in a courtroom at the new Keahuolu Courthouse in Kona.

Judge Melvin Fujino congratulates the Big Island Veterans Treatment Court’s 15th graduate.

Judges, staff, and program associates also participated in the 2019 Hilo Veterans Day Parade on November 9 to recognize and thank all the veterans who have made a commitment to and sacrifice for our country.

First Circuit Judge Edward Kubo, Jr., and Third Circuit Judge Henry Nakamoto with Veterans Treatment Court associates standing outside on a sunny blue-sky day, on a lawn with a Big Island Veterans Treatment Court banner at the Hilo Veterans Day Parade, 11/09/19.

From left, First Circuit Judge Edward H. Kubo, Jr., and Third Circuit Judge Henry T. Nakamoto (fourth from left) were joined by Veterans Treatment Court participants, alumni, probation officers, mentors, attorneys, and Veterans Administration staff at the 2019 Hilo Veterans Day Parade.

The Judiciary extends a special thanks to those veterans who now serve as volunteer veteran mentors in the Veterans Court programs in each judicial circuit. The mentors come from every branch of the military. They understand the difficulties men and women can face after leaving the service. The support they provide participants throughout the process of recovery is integral to the program’s success.