Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) issued the following statement following official notification from the United States Postal Service (USPS) that the 2002 Stamp Program will honor Hawaii Olympian and surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku. The stamp will be issued in August 2002:

"I welcome the official announcement by the Postal Service that a 2002 U.S. postage stamp will honor the achievements of Duke Kahanamoku, Hawaii's five-time Olympic medal winner and the father of modern surfing. Duke Kahanamoku holds a unique place in surfing history and his Olympic feats are legendary. This stamp celebrating the life of one of the islands' most respected citizens will delight not only the people of Hawaii, but surfers and sports enthusiasts worldwide.

"As Chairman of the Senate Postal Subcommittee, I have invited the Postal Service to unveil the Duke Kahanamoku stamp at a special ceremony this month at the U.S. Capitol. At that time, we will all have the opportunity to view this stamp commemorating one of Hawaii's favorite sons.

"Mahalo nui loa to all the people and organizations who have supported the issuance of this stamp and contacted the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee throughout the years. I also want to thank the Postmaster General and his staff for the consideration and support they gave our effort to honor the Duke. Today's announcement by the Postal Service affirms our motivating judgment that the time has come to honor the Duke, Hawaii's own Olympic hero and a man who holds a place unequal to any other person in the annals of surfing."