Hawaii-born President Barack Obama recognized retiring U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka Wednesday during the president’s remarks at the Tribal Nations Conference in Washington D.C.

"I want to give a special shout-out to Sen. Danny Akaka, who has been such a tireless advocate for Native Americans throughout his career. You know that Danny is going to be retiring this year, and he’s such a great friend," the president said, adding, "And as a Hawaiian boy, I’ve got to give him a little special props.

The event was held at the U.S. Department of the Interior.