Forty-eight international naval officers representing 44 countries visited the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court building, Aliʻiōlani Hale, on September 23 as part of the U.S. Naval War College’s Field Studies Program.

The officers met with Hawaiʻi Supreme Court Associate Justices Sabrina S. McKenna and Lisa M. Ginoza and the Administrator of the Judiciary’s Commission on Judicial Conduct Matthew McCall.

During the visit, the justices and McCall discussed federalism and the relationship among federal, state, and military courts, as well as laws and cases involving the different court systems. The discussion also focused on the Constitution of the State of Hawaiʻi and Native Hawaiian rights. The officers had an opportunity to ask questions throughout the presentation.

Before joining the Judiciary, McCall served more than 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, including as a military trial judge. His military and legal experience provided additional perspective for the discussion of the relationship between civilian and military justice systems.

The visiting officers are members of the Naval Command College Class of 2027 at the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island. Senior naval officers from participating countries are nominated to attend the 11-month program, which prepares them for higher-level command responsibilities while fostering relationships and cooperation among the United States and international naval partners.

According to the Naval War College, more than half of its 2,500 graduates have gone on to attain flag rank, with many eventually leading their respective navies.

The Field Studies Program is an important component of the international officers’ experience in the United States. Through visits around the country, participants learn about U.S. military and government institutions, judicial systems, human rights, political processes, civil-military relations, the role of the media, and other aspects of American society.