Welcome to

The O’ahu Veterans Council

The Gathering of Heroes

The mission of the Oahu Veterans Council is to provide a forum for Veterans’ organizations to
gather and share information pertinent to Veterans and Members of the Council, and to promote
Veterans rights and benefits.
To provide a gathering place for Veterans to share camaraderie and to promote Veterans
rights and benefits.
a. To preserve the memory and pride of its members who served in the United States
Armed Forces
b. To honor the sacrifices made by our Service Members.
c. To promote and foster understanding and unity amongst our members, civic
organizations, and the community at large.
d. To support all recognized state and national Veterans Service Organizations, their
activities, goals, and to foster good will and fellowship among them.
e. To liaison with City and County of Honolulu and State of Hawaii government and
legislative officials to support and promote Veterans’ issues.

The Oahu Veterans Council was founded in 1992 by Fred Ballard, George Sullivan, and Colonel Edward Cruickshank, United States Army (Retired), with a shared vision of creating a central gathering place where veterans could connect, collaborate, and share vital information. Their goal was simple but powerful — to unite the veteran community on Oahu under one roof and strengthen coordination among Veteran Service Organizations.

From its inception, the Council was built on cooperation rather than competition. It was designed to serve as a neutral forum where organizations could exchange updates, address common challenges, support one another’s initiatives, and collectively advocate for Hawaii’s veterans.

Today, the Oahu Veterans Council includes representation from more than 40 Veteran Service Organizations across the island. Participation continues to grow, including increasing collaboration and representation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and other key partners serving the veteran community.

The Council meets on the fourth Saturday of each month, providing a structured forum for updates, coordination, and strategic discussion. Through regular meetings, shared resources, and community partnerships, the Oahu Veterans Council remains committed to advancing services, strengthening communication, and honoring those who have served.

To connect with our member Veteran Service Organizations or discover upcoming veteran events happening across Oahu, please explore the sections below.

Veteran Service Organizations (VSO) and Non-Profit Organizations Supporting our Veterans

The Council comprises of 45 plus, Veteran Services Organizations (VSO) and associated Posts. They meet monthly at the Center to coordinate and advance shared interests and services to the Veteran community and to disseminate information to all members and related parties, promoting supportive relationships and strengthening member networks

Oahu Veterans Council - Veteran Organizations
Veterans Events & Services Across Oʻahu

We proudly support the veteran community throughout Oʻahu by sharing upcoming events, gatherings, and services dedicated to honoring those who served. From community outreach and wellness programs to commemorative ceremonies and networking opportunities, this section keeps you connected to what’s happening around the island. Check back often for the latest updates and ways to get involved.

View Veteran Events and Services in Oahu

Veterans Day at Punchbowl

Each year, the O’ahu Veterans Council and Center is honored to organize and sponsor the official Veterans Day Ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl. This solemn event brings together veterans, families, service members, and the public to recognize the service and sacrifice of all who have worn the uniform of our nation.

We are proud to ensure that Veterans Day on Oʻahu is marked with dignity, gratitude, and remembrance. It is our mission to honor both those who continue to serve and those we have lost.

About Veterans Day

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, honors all veterans from every branch of the U.S. military for their service and sacrifice.

The holiday traces its origins to the end of World War I. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, an armistice ended fighting between Allied forces and Germany. In 1938, Congress established Armistice Day as a national holiday dedicated to world peace and to honor WWI veterans.

After World War II, a veteran named Raymond Weeks advocated for recognizing all American veterans. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill officially changing Armistice Day to Veterans Day, expanding its purpose to honor veterans of all wars and those still serving today..