An official website of the United States Government 
Here's how you know

Official websites use .gov

A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS

A lock ( lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

You have accessed part of a historical collection on defense.gov. Some of the information contained within may be outdated and links may not function. Please contact the DOD Webmaster with any questions.
Release
Immediate Release

Statement by Secretary of Defense Ash Carter on Rep. Mark Takai

July 21, 2016
 I was saddened to learn of the passing of Congressman Mark Takai. Congressman Takai served the people of Hawaii and the nation from the state capitol in Honolulu ,to the halls of Congress, to the deserts of Kuwait, where he served as an Army National Guardsman.  As a National Guard officer, he served with distinction for 17 years, almost to the day. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, he vigorously promoted the interests of our nation and the men and women of our military. On behalf of the department, I offer our condolences to his wife, Sami, his family and the people of Hawaii.