In Memory of Colonel John Henry Felix: A Legacy of Leadership
In Memory of Colonel John Henry Felix: A Legacy of Leadership
Contributing writers: Lt Col Victor Torres and 2d Lt Brian Teal
Honolulu, Hawaii. May 5, 2025
For decades, Col John Henry Felix left a legacy of leadership through business, government, and public service in Hawaii. Of his many accomplishments, his tenure as a volunteer leader in Civil Air Patrol Hawaii Wing stands out as a testament to his vision, commitment, and enduring civic spirit.
Col Felix served three terms as Wing Commander of the Civil Air Patrol Hawaii Wing while leading the organization with distinction and elevating its national standing. Under his dynamic leadership, Hawaii Wing earned a first-place ranking among the nation’s 52 Civil Air Patrol wings — a milestone in the history of the Hawaii Wing.
The legacy Col Felix left behind stretches beyond rankings and accolades. It was under Col Felix’s command that the Hawaii Wing saw one of its most transformative achievements: the planning and development of its headquarters facility at 419 Lele Street in Honolulu. Col Felix was instrumental in securing the land, obtaining funding, and enlisting an architect for the project — turning a long-held vision into a concrete reality. Today, the facility stands as a physical symbol of his dedication and the operational strength he helped build within the Civil Air Patrol community.
As a testament to servant leadership, Col Felix served with the U.S. Army as an infantryman during the Korean War who later earned his commission in the U.S. Air Force. His command style combined discipline, strategic planning, and an unwavering belief in volunteerism. He concluded his military service as a Colonel, earning two Distinguished Service Medals in recognition of his extraordinary contributions.
Col Felix’s work in Civil Air Patrol paralleled a lifetime of public service, from his pivotal role in transforming Hawaii’s territorial government into a functioning state, to serving on the Honolulu City Council, and receiving international honors for his humanitarian efforts.
Today, the Hawaii Wing headquarters remains a cornerstone of Civil Air Patrol operations in Hawaii and a lasting tribute to the volunteer commander who made it possible. Through his leadership, Col Felix not only shaped an organization, but inspired generations to come. With the passing of ColJohn Henry Felix, we remember his legacy and are reminded of his contributions as Civil Air Patrol members enter the Hawaii Wing Headquarters.
Historic photo of Col John Felix presenting the Civil Air Patrol Hawaii Wing Headquarters building. Photo by David Kirtland.
Civil Air Patrol members from Hawaii Wing stand together to honor Colonel John Felix and dedicate the building to his contributions of leaving a legacy for others to grow. Photo by 2d Lt Brian Teal
The plaque that dedicates the Civil Air Patrol Hawaii Wing to Col John Felix hangs on the outside front entrance for all to see.
Lt Col Victor Torres puts the final touches on hanging the plaque at the Civil Air Patrol Hawaii Wing Headquarters in memory and dedication of Col John Felix. Photo by 2d Lt Brian Teal
About Civil Air Patrol
Founded in 1941 and established as the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force seven years later, Civil Air Patrol is chartered by Congress as a nonprofit organization for the purposes of youth development, aerospace education, and to promote general aviation. In an auxiliary role as a Total Force partner of the Air Force, CAP operates the world’s largest fleet of single-engine aircraft for search and rescue, disaster relief, training, and education. Civil Air Patrol is dedicated to serving America’s communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.
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