In his commentary, “A parade isn’t necessary to honor Kamehameha’s legacy” (Star-Advertiser, Island Voices, June 11), Wendell Hosea laments the lengthy gaps between floats and other units in this year’s Kamehameha Day parade. He goes on to suggest that the parade be dropped or significantly shortened, and that the islands’ first king be honored by activities limited to the downtown area where his statue stands or, alternately, by raising scholarship funds for young Hawaiians.

Kamehameha’s legacy is not important to Native Hawaiians alone. While not perfect — no one is — Kamehameha was truly a remarkable individual. A skilled strategist, adept administrator and man of great courage, he also had the wisdom to choose excellent advisers — and he knew when to listen to them.

The parade is the best device that we have for sharing the king’s story with the public. Could it be improved? Of course. Should it be done away with? Perish the thought!

Don Armstrong

Waikiki

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