A Hawaiian Oli
HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii -- Ble Haku Raymond Ganotise, a Hawaiian reverend, sings a traditional oli, or blessing, to the U.S Air Force Thunderbirds Sept. 16 here. He blew on a pu, or conch shell, to traditionally announce their arrival before the blessing. Ble Haku Ganotise is a retired Hawaii National Guard master sergeant. In Hawaiian the culture, the pu is used to announce the opening of the Hawaii State Legislature, presentation of the royal court at hula festivals and for traditional ceremonies. The pu is also a popular commencement tool at weddings and luaus, and also have been used to honor royalty and famous people. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Mike Meares)