Public Affairs

First Lieutenant Janel Fujinaka, the Hawaii Wing Public Affairs Director, is a highly accomplished member of the Civil Air Patrol. She has been part of the inaugural group of cadets since November 2021. Currently, she is employed by the Department of Defense in the Navy Region of Hawaii as a program analyst for the Red Hill Joint Task Force Closure team. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix and is obtaining her Master's in Public Administration.

Lieutenant Fujinaka holds several significant positions in the Hawaii Wing, where she serves as the Squadron Deputy Commander of the Maryknoll Cadet Squadron, the Public Affairs Director for the Hawaii Wing, Assistant Director of Cadet Programs Development Officer, Assistant Development Director, Assistant Director of Information Technology, Wing Diversity Officer, and Website Administrator.

Her impressive contributions to the Civil Air Patrol and her diligent work on the Hawaii Wing Civil Air Patrol Emergency Services team as the Public Information Officer through her support on the Maui Wild Fires, Maui Medical Air Crash, and Mauna Loa Volcano Eruption, speak to her exceptional leadership skills, critical thinking, and dedication to excellence. Her extensive experience and expertise in the field make her an invaluable asset to her team and an inspiration to her colleagues. She also volunteers as an elected neighborhood board member to the Makiki District as the board secretary and a reservist with the City and County of Honolulu Department of Emergency Management. 

Lieutenant Fujinaka's commitment to excellence and unwavering dedication to her work make her an exemplary member of the Civil Air Patrol. Her passion for her work and dedication to serving her community are truly inspirational and set a high standard for all those who work alongside her.

Lieutenant Fujinaka has been recognized for outstanding contributions to the Civil Air Patrol. For her contributions to the Maui Wild Fires, she has received three Commander Commendation Awards, Wing Public Officer of the Year Award, Pacific Region Public Affairs Officer of the Year, and Disaster Relief Ribbon with Presidental V. Her unwavering dedication to disaster relief efforts is truly inspiring. She has fearlessly served with valor during the Maui Wild Fires, Maui Medical Air Crash, and Mauna Loa Volcano Eruption, leaving an indelible mark of courage and selflessness in the hearts of all those she has helped.

Lieutenant Fujinaka's knowledge of Cadet Programs, Public Affairs, program management, and community building make her an invaluable asset to the Hawaii Wing. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and determination to continue the wing's rich legacy are truly inspiring. We are honored to have her leading the charge in making the 2024 Hawaii Wing Encampment a resounding success.