HILO, Hawaii (KHON2) — More than 30 Hawaii Police Department officers are celebrating their new promotions, especially Sherry Bird, who became Hawaii’s first-ever wahine to hold the title of Assistant Chief.
On Friday, Jan. 31, Hawaii Island Police Chief Benjamin Moszkowicz promoted 38 officers including one Major, two Captains, nine Lieutenants, five Detectives, six Sergeants and 14 Police Officer IIIs.
“On behalf of the department, I want to congratulate the 38 members of the department who stepped up and earned their promotions,” said Moszkowicz.
Newly promoted Assistant Chief Sherry Bird also became the highest-ranking woman in the department’s history.
“Making sure everything runs smoothly and with as little hiccups as possible and what I can do to help facilitate that and reduce any redundancy and increase efficiency is exciting for me,” Bird said.
But this isn’t her first time in the record book. In 2021, Bird was the second woman in the department to be promoted to Major. She has served with the department for 27 years.
“The collective talent, work ethic, and dedication of this group is truly remarkable and they each deserve every bit of their success. I am excited to see what they accomplish to help move the department forward,” Moszkowicz added.
The ceremony also highlighted Reserve Officer Theodore hamada with a Certificate of Appreciation for his 50 years of service.
Additionally, Jeremy Barrientos was sworn in as the department’s newest Police Chaplain.