A Brief History of Bob Hope Primary School

The building for Bob Hope Primary School was started in 1979 and completed in 1980. It opened with about 750 students in the fall of 1980. Nothing was on this spot before this time. It was all jungle.
Japanese contractors built the school. It replaced the M&K School. M&K School was a KN to 6th grade school located near Kadena Air Base Gate 3. Bob Hope Primary School replaced grades KN - 3. Amelia Earhart Intermediate School replaced grades 4-6

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The school got its name through a democratic process. The children voted by ballot and the composite total was overwhelmingly in favor of Bob Hope.

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Bob Hope was a famous comedian and great humanitarian, who has given graciously of his time and talents to bring joy to thousands of military men and women throughout the Pacific, during several wars, dating back as far as World War II.

--------------------------Bob Hope never came to the school, but wrote a nice letter giving permission to use his name for the school. Photocopy of actual letter

Mr. Hope's letter of permission is seen below. ---------------------------

January 26, 1981

Mr. Edward C. Killin, Director, DoDDS Pacific Region
Department of Defense Dependents Schools, Futenma
Box 796 FPO
Seattle 98772Dear Mr. Killin:

I finally received your letter from my pressman and I am flattered that you want to name an elementary school after me. If it is large enough I may attend myself.
We played Okinawa many times during the past 25 years and I would like to visit the island again, but I hope we never have to do it during wartime again. I think our country could stand a little peace for the next 50-100 years.
So, you have my permission to name the school after me and I hope to be there someday.
Thank Colonel Fanning for his endorsement and I send you both my best regards and good wishes for a happy and healthy '81.

Bob Hope