“I was deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Sergeant Sakoda.

“As a member of our island ohana, his death hits home especially hard.

“I join our entire community in extending heartfelt sympathy to his family, friends and fellow soldiers.

“He was one of America’s finest.  We honor him for his courage, patriotism and devotion to duty.”

Sergeant Sakoda was born in Hilo and graduated from Waiakea High School and the University of Hawai’i-Hilo. 

He is survived by his wife Michelle Sakoda and his sister Stella Yuki Sakoda Hottendorf.

He was a member of the 1^st Squadron, 75^th Cavalry Regiment, 101^st Airborne Division.

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