The sound of a Navy fleet whistle signaled Rotary Club of Honolulu member Ed Carter to the stage yesterday at a ceremony honoring him as "Treasure of the Year."

Carter, 81, served aboard a Navy ship during World War II before becoming a top executive for financial institutions Transamerica Corp., Dillingham Corp. and then Bishop Trust Co. Ltd.

Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona also recognized Carter during the club's year end luncheon at the Royal Hawaiian hotel in Waikiki. The club gives the award to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the community.

Carter retired in the late 1970s, but his family and friends maintain that he never slowed down.

Carter, born in Los Angeles, spent 36 retirement years volunteering with nonprofit organizations, such as Aloha United Way, Hawaiian Educational Council and Bishop Museum. He served as a Rotary president in the early 1990s and on numerous boards, including the USS Missouri Memorial Association.

"My life has been truly blessed," Carter said yesterday. He added, "Being recognized as the Treasure is the icing on the cake."