During the February HNGA/HNGEA Joint State Conference, SMSgt(Ret.) Ramon “Maui” Quizon was honored with the prestigious EANGUS Distinguished Service Award. This award, presented among his peers and those he has championed for years, recognizes his unwavering dedication to the enlisted force and the Hawaii National Guard Enlisted Association (HNGEA).
One of our Nation’s greatest strengths remains the compassion of our Citizen Airmen, who selflessly serve for the benefit of others. SMSgt Quizon exemplifies this tradition through his dedication, leadership, and relentless advocacy for the enlisted force. His service as President of the HNGEA from September 2014 to May 2024 has been nothing short of exceptional.
As President, SMSgt Quizon spearheaded efforts to increase and sustain annual and lifetime memberships, achieving first place in regional membership rankings. His leadership extended beyond association matters, as he played a pivotal role in legislative advocacy, securing key benefits for National Guard members and their families. His notable achievements include:
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Membership Leadership: Managed an average membership of 900 over a decade, ensuring continuous growth and engagement.
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Legislative Advocacy: Worked closely with Representative Kyle Mark Takai to secure the Hawaii National Guard Vehicle Weight Tax Exemption, saving members and their families hundreds of dollars annually. Even after Representative Takai’s passing in 2016, SMSgt Quizon continued efforts to preserve this critical benefit.
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State Tax Deduction: Led efforts to secure and maintain the Hawaii State Tax Deduction for HING members, currently providing a $7,683 deduction per member and their families.
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Infrastructure & Organizational Development: Collaborated with the Hawaii National Guard Officer Association (HNGA) to acquire joint ownership of the NGA Hawaii Clubhouse, ensuring a permanent meeting space for National Guard members.
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Event Coordination: Successfully organized and executed the Area VI/VII Mid-Winter Conference, hosting over 100 EANGUS members and families, as well as the first-ever Joint HNGA/HNGEA State Conference with over 150 attendees.
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Military & Community Engagement: Served as an integral leader within the Military Appreciation Committee, advocating for increased benefits for Hawaii’s service members and their families.
SMSgt Quizon’s commitment to the mission of HNGEA and EANGUS has been unparalleled. His tireless dedication, often sacrificing personal time to ensure the success of the enlisted force, makes him a role model for all. Whether briefing units, representing the association in professional forums, or mentoring future leaders, he has consistently placed service before self.
The singularly distinctive accomplishments of SMSgt(Ret.) Quizon reflect great credit upon himself, the Hawaii National Guard, and the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States. EANGUS is proud to recognize his contributions and celebrate his lasting impact on the National Guard community.
