From the battlefield to the church pew, this year's Living Treasures, selected by the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawai'i, are about teaching and passing on tradition.

Each year, the Buddhist mission recognizes individuals from the community who contribute to preserving the culture of Hawai'i. This year's honorees are Amy Agbayani, Puanani Sonoda Burgess, Sister Joan Chatfield, retired Army Col. Bert Nishimura and Nalani Olds.

"We want to recognize people for their years of service to the community, for making it a better place," said Margaret Oda, Living Treasures Committee chairwoman. "These people have contributed significantly to the community to make it a more humane and better society."

Since 1970, the Honpa Hongwanji Mission has recognized people from the community who embody the philosophy of giving and of perpetuating the culture of Hawai'i.

This year's recipients will be recognized at a banquet at the Sheraton Waikiki on Feb. 13. To make a reservation, call the mission at 522-9200 by Friday.