Born in 1901, Clara (Haili) Nelson taught elementary school before embarking on a show-business career as "Hilo Hattie." The singer-actress was known for her hula routine, a comedic turn that entertained her students with before she ascended the stage. Hilo Hattie performed full-time beginning in 1940, on the radio broadcast Hawaii Calls and made the movie, Song of the Islands. During World War II she lived in San Francisco and performed regularly at the St. Francis Hotel. After the war, Los Angeles and Las Vegas venues lured her to the mainland where she married World War II veteran and violinist Carlyle F. Nelson, U.S. Army TSGT​. Hilo Hattie returned to Hawaii in 1960 and performed through the 1970s. Career highlights include the film Blue Hawaii starring Elvis Presley and the television show Hawaii Five-O. She died December 12, 1979.
*The preceding content is not intended as a comprehensive biography, but it highlights their significance as a result of military or civilian distinction, lasting achievements, or association with impactful national events. 

CARLYLE FRANCIS NELSON

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