2 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL 18th Wing Commander wishes Team Kadena Happy Holidays eam Kadena, Th e holidays are a great time of year you demonstrate, a dedication to As we welcome this holiday for you to take the time to relax, unwind freedom so profound that you are Tseason, I would like to thank and spend time with friends and willing to give of yourself to defend the every Airman, Marine, Soldier, Sailor, family as we continue to serve in the freedoms of others, both near and afar. Civilian and family member for the world’s greatest fi ghting force. We must So I would like to thank you on sacrifi ces you make each day for our remember to take care of our wingmen, behalf of myself, my family, your fellow country and your dedication to peace especially on Okinawa, where many of service men and women, and our great and stability in the Pacifi c. Together, we our fellow service men and women may nation. Please enjoy this holiday season, make up an essential force in support be spending the holidays away from be smart, and stay safe. of the United States’ commitments in their families for the fi rst time. Best wishes from my family to yours the Pacifi c region as well as the mutual Sacrifi ces such as these are a true throughout the holidays and into the Brig. Gen. Barry R. Cornish defense of Japan. testament to the strength of character New Year! 18th Wing Commander Cover Wing commander add- photo resses Team Kadena An F-15C Eagle from Kadena Air Base, refuels By Airman 1st Class from a 909th Air Refueling Corey M. Pettis Squadron KC-135 18th Wing Public Affairs Stratotanker during the 12/14/2015 Forceful Tiger exercise near — Th e 18th Wing Okinawa, April 1. During commander spoke to junior en- the aerial exercise, the listed Airmen and staff sergeants Stratotankers delivered during the fi rst of fi ve all-calls 800,000 pounds of fuel to here Dec. 14. approximately 50 aircraft. Brig. Gen Barry Cornish, who (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Maeson L. Elleman) took command in April this year, used the briefi ng to speak with the Airmen before the holidays and PACAF rock band per- emphasize safety and maintaining their high level of teamwork, pro- fessionalism and commitment. forms at Naha Air Base Cornish emphasized his belief that all Airmen are part of a team and that teamwork is key (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Corey M. Pettis) to a productive fi ghting force. ^Brig. Gen. Barry Cornish, 18th Wing commander, talks to junior enlisted Airmen during a commander’s call, Dec. 14, at Kadena Air Base. Brig. Gen Cornish discussed various topics, “Each one of you is that de- such as the importance of teamwork, professionalism and commitment. fensive wall that stands between your country and anyone who ‘the team can’t aff ord this.’ If you tance of the role of every Airman wants to do it harm.” said Cor- do that this holiday season, then on Kadena. With other entities nish. “But the mortar that holds every one of you will be back in in the Indo-Asia-Pacifi c Th eater, those bricks together is trust, the fi ght when we need you.” the Airmen here are the key to loyalty and respect.” Along with being a team, the sustaining peace in the region As bricks in that wall, Cor- commander also stressed his and around the world. nish said Airmen have an innate priorities of resilient Airmen, “I don’t think anyone has re- responsibility to support one an- exemplary leadership, readiness, ally made me realize how critical other and learn to mitigate risks, innovation and realistic training. our role is here until today,” said especially during the holiday It is resiliency and leadership Senior Airman Andres Cervant- season. people count on when times get es 18th Force Support Squadron “Mishaps occur, but usually tough, readiness and innovation out-bound technician. “We have (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Lynette M. Rolen) somewhere along the line there to use the manning and materi- a huge involvement in this side Master Sgt. Mark Frandsen, U.S. Air Force Band of the Pacifi c-Asia NCO in charge and are opportunities for someone als available to accomplish the of the Pacifi c, and we all have a regional band craftsman, and Senior Airman Alberto Rosado-Perez, U.S. Air Force Band of to step in and stop it,” Cornish mission, and realistic training to huge part in the mission. It’s up the Pacifi c-Asia regional band journeyman, play guitars during the Pacifi c Air Forces’ band said. “Be that person. Have the prepare for anything. to us to stay ready at all times in Pacifi c Trends’ performance at Air Fest, Dec. 13, at Naha Air Base. This performance was moral courage to step in and say Cornish discussed the impor- the case of confl ict.” held to show appreciation for the partnership between the U.S. and Japan. SSEASON'SEASON'S GGREETINGSREETINGS WWishingishing yyouou a ssafeafe andand wwonderfulonderful holidayholiday sseason.eason. TThehe nextnext ppublicicationublicication isis JJanuaryanuary 88,, 22016016

Published by Eight Co., Ltd. a private fi rm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with the 18th Wing. The civilian en- terprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. military services overseas. Contents of Samurai Gate are not necessarily the offi cial views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or Eight Co. Ltd. of the products or services advertised. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Depart- ment of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or Eight Co. Ltd. of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political af- filiation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. For commercial advertising, inquiry, send an email to [email protected] Offi cial Kadena Air Base inquiries: [email protected] DSN:634-3813 2015 ANNUAL SAMURAI GATE Nirai Fire Department partners with Kadena 3 first responders for humanitarian relief exercise

By Airman 1st Class porarily wait at a fi re station,” Corey M. Pettis said Zukeran. 18th Wing Public Affairs Th is kind of incident where 12/10/2015 — Nirai Fire depart- fi rst responders are either not ment partnered with Kadena able to reach a victim or get them fi rst responders in a humani- to a hospital are very dangerous, tarian relief exercise Dec. 3 at but can be avoided. Th e Hijaga- Kadena. wa Agreement does just that. It is Th is is the fi rst exercise in an agreement between Yomitan, which the Nirai Fire Department Kadena-Cho, Chatan, and Kade- partnered with Kadena to get to na Air Base to provide the Nirai parts of the surrounding area Fire Department transit through that would have been previously Kadena during fl ooding. be inaccessible due to fl ooding, Based on the agreement and by driving through the base. under cooperation with the 18th “Th e exercise was conducted Wing, Nirai Fire Department based on the simulation that called the Wing, and requested Highway 58 and Highway 74 base access via Gate 4, and was in Kadena Town areas were able to transport the patient fl ooded and traffi c fl ow was through the base route to the forced to stop in the town area emergency hospital in Okinawa due to heavy rain,” said Tamotsu City. Zukeran, Nirai Fire Department During the exercise, members security section. of the 18th Security Forces Th ere was a situation where Squadron met the Nirai Fire De- Highways 58 and 74, under partment at Gate 4. Th ey moved jurisdiction of Nirai Fire Depart- the barriers and unlocked the (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Corey M. Pettis) ment, were fl ooded with heavy gate, allowing fi re trucks to come ^Tech. Sgt. Teddy Poole, 18th Security Forces Squadron police service NCO in charge, opens a gate for a Nirai Fire Department vehicle during rain in July 2014. Vehicles could through. Th ey then escorted an exercise Dec. 3, at Kadena Air Base. not travel on the highways for them through the base around approximately three hours, iso- to Gate 2, practicing what they port medical patients to advance Ammon said that he believes Kadena is on a small island, lating three fi re stations of Nirai would do in a real emergency. medical care quickly through the agreement strengthens the directly in the path of what is Fire Department from people Practicing helps smooth out Kadena rather transport to relationship between Kadena known as “Typhoon ally.” Th e who needed help. the edges on what could poten- hospitals further north,” said Fire Emergency Services and island is susceptible to heavy “At that time, Nirai Fire tially be a life-saving act. Ammon. Nirai Fire Department, but more rains from typhoons and in Department could not transport “Th is exercise will prevent life Not only will it potentially importantly builds friendships some instances severe fl ooding, the patient in Kadena Town and and death situations by allowing save lives, it also creates close between Kadena and our local which can block access to major the patient was required to tem- Nirai Fire Department to trans- working relations. city partners. roads and highways. 4 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL

Talon Flight Senior Airman Kristopher Beckwith, 18th Aeromedical Squadron ALS Class 16-A graduates Staff Sgt. Christopher Bruce, 18th Equipment Maintenance Squadron Senior Airman Ryan Charpentier, 18th Maintenance Support Squadron Senior Airman Benjamin Jones, 353rd Special Operations Support By Airman 1st Class Corey M. Pettis Senior Airman Christian Hernandez, 733rd Air Mobility Squadron Squadron Senior Airman Ashley Herndon, 733rd Air Mobility Squadron Senior Airman Anastasia Long, 18th Communications Squadron 18th Wing Public Affairs Senior Airman Evan Hiles, 18th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Senior Airman Tom Nguyen, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron 12/14/2015 — During an Airman Leadership School Senior Airman Matthew McCabe, 718th Aircraft Maintenance Senior Airman Melinda Rasmussen, 18th Security Forces Squadron graduation Dec. 11, at the Rocker NCO club, 52 Airmen Squadron Senior Airman Adam Schaetzl, 18th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Senior Airman Devin McKeever, 18th Component Maintenance Senior Airman Riley Smith, 718th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron took the next step toward becoming future NCOs and Squadron Senior Airman Tiffany Speth, 18th Medical Operations Squadron better leaders. Senior Airman Corey Schacht, 18th Communications Squadron Senior Airman Christopher Wright, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron Senior Airman Twila Stone, 18th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Congratulations to the following graduates of ALS Phantom Flight Senior Airman Marlin Williams, 18th Security Forces Squadron Class 16-A: Senior Airman Rengie Bascog, 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron Falcon Flight Senior Airman Jordan Boyd, 733rd Air Mobility Squadron John L. Levitow Award winner: Senior Airman Fardad Alimeheri, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron Senior Airman Moises Colon, 18th Security Force Squadron Senior Airman Kollin Trevallion, 390th Intelligence Squadron Senior Airman Terrance Jenkins, 353rd Special Operations Senior Airman Charnay Fitzpatrick, 718th Aircraft Maintenance Distinguished Graduates: Maintenance Squadron Squadron Senior Airman Eric Coulson, 353rd Special Operations Support Senior Airman Mica Lawson, 18th Electronic Maintenance Senior Airman Joshua Germano, 18th Communications Squadron Squadron Squadron Senior Airman Rachel Ishmael, 18th Wing Legal Senior Airman John Hammons, 18th Component Maintenance Senior Airman Eugene Macomber Jr., 18th Aircraft Maintenance Senior Airman John King III, 18th Squadron Squadron Squadron Senior Airman Louis Kelley, 18th Operations Support Squadron Senior Airman David Roberts, 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron Senior Airman Ahmad Long, 18th Operation Support Squadron Senior Airman Tyshaun Owens, 18th Aircraft Maintenance Senior Airman Steven Rock, 353rd Special Operations Support Senior Airman Christen Nail, 18th Equipment Maintenance Squadron Squadron Squadron Senior Airman Amanda Stinnett, 31st Rescue Squadron Senior Airman Aaron Osborne, 18th Equipment Maintenance Eagle Flight Senior Airman Cassandra Supernault, 18th Operations Support Squadron Senior Airman Jarrod Dewan, 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron Squadron Senior Airman Michael Pluhacek, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron Senior Airman Scott Finan, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron Senior Airman Michael Tasch, 18th Munitions Squadron Senior Airman Abraham Rojas, 18th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Senior Airman Brianna French, 18th Operations Support Squadron Senior Airman David Thompson, 82nd Reconnaissance Squadron Senior Airman Christopher Scott, 353rd Special Operations Senior Airman Nicholas Gillette, 18th Equipment Maintenance Senior Airman Michael Walker, 718th Aircraft Maintenance Support Squadron Squadron Squadron Kadena celebrates holidays Military working dogs with Tinsel Town sharpen their bites

(U.S. Air Force photo by Naoto Anazawa) ^U.S. Army Private First Class Richard Schmidt, Public Health Command District Japan, Okinawa Branch veterinary technician, prepares to administer a shot to Ayila, 18th Security Forces Squadron military working dog, while 18th SFS MWD handlers comfort her during (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) ^Kadena’s Christmas tree is illuminated an annual dental examination at the Veterinary Treatment Facility, Dec. 9, at Kadena Air ^Airman 1st Class Barry Fernandez and Senior Airman Cuong Pham, 18th Logistics during the tree-lighting ceremony at Kadena Base. Dental examinations of military working dogs are recommended at least once a year Readiness Squadron vehicle operators, dress as an elf and reindeer, Dec. 12, at Tinsel Town Air Base, Dec.12. to ensure they remain healthy. at Kadena Air Base. By Senior Airman “It’s an annual event that’s home and fellowship, despite dorms and is really good for than 65 separate vendors, orga- Omari Bernard been going on,” said Bilgen Ol- being stationed far from their morale.” nizations, craft ers and volunteers 18th Wing Public Affairs son, Schilling Community Cen- loved ones. It’s also a great way to forget, from on and off the installation, 12/14/2015 — Clear skies and a ter entertainment coordinator. Airmen like Senior Airman for a moment, to forget that promoting a positive relation- sunny day set the stage for Tinsel “It feels great seeing that many Cuong Pham, 18th Logistics we’re away from our loved ones, ship with service members and Town to kick off the holiday people out there and everyone Readiness Squadron vehicle op- Pham continued. the local community. season for service members and looked happy.” erator, volunteered at the event “We are here away from our “It feels great seeing that their families stationed on Oki- Olson, who’s been on the is- dressed as holiday icons. Dressed families and country,” Olson many people came out today,” nawa. Th e event featured games, land since February of 2014, said as a reindeer, Pham helped em- said. “Large events like these said Olson. “It makes me happy. children’s rides, concession community events like Tinsel body the holiday spirit. are about giving back to the Th is is all possible because of the stands, prize giveaways, perfor- Town are important for morale “Volunteering for Tinsel community. To me, that’s what’s hard work and dedication of the mances and was headlined by and give service members and Town has been fun,” Pham said. important.” volunteers and everyone that John Legend. their families a little taste of “It’s a great way to get out of the Tinsel Town featured more makes up Team Kadena.” 2015 ANNUAL SAMURAI GATE 5 6 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL

JANUARY

The MC-130P Combat Shadow breaks away from the heritage formation of three MC-130 variants over Okinawa, Jan 26 symbolizing the retirement of the MC-130P and the continuing mission of the MC-130J Commando II and the MC-130H Combat Talon II. The 353rd Special Operations Group performed the unique formation to commemorate the enduringl egacy of MC-130 operations in the Pacifi c. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Maeson Elleman) An F-16 Fighting Falcon Moriyasu Yonashiro, ^ ^ from the Wisconsin Air Kadena Welfare Center National Guard’s 115th executive director, Fighter Wing at Truax Field and members from Base, the Kadena Outreach Wis., touches down on Committee pose for a the fl ightline of Kadena Air photo at the Kadena Base, Jan. 15. Members welfare center, Jan. 23. of the 115th FW deployed The Okinawa Outreach to Kadena in support of a Committee collected theater security package. thousands of food and TSP deployments provide toiletry donations over the Pacifi c Region with the last two months. forces capable of a variety of These donations will be operations, including disaster delivered by Kadena relief, global situational Top 3 to Kadena Town, awareness, combating Chatan Town and piracy, active defense and Okinawa City welfare power projection. centers.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zade C. Vadnais) (U.S. Air Force photo by Naoto Anazawa) 2015 ANNUAL SAMURAI GATE 7 FEBRUARY

Master Sgt. Richard ^ Holguin, 718th Civil Engineer Squadron Engineering Flight superintendent, speaks Chief Master Sgt. ^ to CE Airman and James Laurent, 5th Marines from the 172nd Air Force command and 171st Engineering chief master sergeant, Company at Kadena asks questions Air Base, Feb. 26. about maintenance Holguin acted as the equipment for wing inspection team the 18th Logistics lead and explained the Readiness Squadron differences in practice on Kadena Air Base, between a training Feb. 5. During his exercise and a real-world visit Laurent met with scenario. Airmen and Airmen at the different Marines donned personal squadrons on Kadena protective gear in to gain a better reaction to a simulated understanding of the chemical attack. mission here.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier) (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Stephen G. Eigel)

(U.S. Air Force photo by Tim Flack) ^Tech. Sgt. Allan Manuel, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron, high-fi ves one of the thousands of runners who transited (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier) (U.S. Air Force photo by Naoto Anazawa) through Kadena Air Base, as part of the 2015 Okinawan ^Senior Airman Eric Way, 18th Munitions Squadron munitions journeyman, receives aid ^Senior Airman Jennifer Barnett, 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels Marathon on Feb. 15. A 2.8-km portion of the 42 km race from an Okinawa Police Department offi cer during a bilateral training exercise on Torii Station, hydrants operator, explains an R-12 gas truck’s functions to Japan Air Self- went through Kadena from Gate 2 to Gate 5. A team of 9 Feb. 17. Personnel from the OPD were the fi rst to respond to a simulated air craft mishap Defense Force members during their visit to Kadena Air Base, Feb. 10. Twenty- municipalities including Kadena Air Base came together to host and were soon joined by Kadena Air Base police offi cers, fi refi ghters, crash and rescue and six JASDF members visited from the 151th Basic Supply Course, 3rd Technical the Okinawa Marathon, which is the only marathon in Japan that emergency management personnel along with other local emergency response agencies. School, Ashiya Base, Fukuoka, to learn the U.S. Air Force side of supply system. runs through a U.S. military installation. 8 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL MARCH

Airman 1st Class Joseph^ Jordan, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron emergency Lt. Gen. Carlton D. ^ management Everhart II, 18th Air Force technician, is commander, and Brig. sprayed down by Gen. James Hecker, a decontamination 18th Wing commander, team during an shake hands during Integrated Base a visit on Kadena Air Emergency Base, March 27. While Response on Kadena, Everhart Capabilities and Maj. Gen. Frederick Training exercise Martin, U.S. Air Force March 18, on Expeditionary Center Kadena Air Base. commander, toured the Jordan was passenger terminal, the cleaned as he air terminal operations left a ‘hot zone,’ center, the maintenance a staged hazard operations center, the air environment for freight terminal and the anyone without maintenance facility to protective gear. interact with Airmen and develop a better sense of the mission at Kadena. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier) (U.S. Air Force photo by Naoto Anazawa) Chief Master Sgt. Gregory^ Cullen, Wisconsin Air National Guard command chief, and Brig. Gen. Gary Ebben, assistant adjutant general, greet members of the 176th Fighter Squadron, Wisconsin Air National Guard, during a visit to Kadena Air Base, March 4. They visited Kadena to (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Stephen G. Eigel) (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Marcus Morris) see how the Wisconsin ^Tech. Sgt. Gregory Ewing, 18th Civil Engineer Group ^Airman 1st Class Michael Santiago, 67th Aircraft Maintenance Air National Guard electrical systems craftsman, participates in a “caber” toss Unit dedicated crew chief, salutes Maj. Johnny Koegel, 67th Fighter deployment to Kadena during a St. Patrick’s Day engineering competition on Camp Squadron pilot, after completing a prefl ight check during a sortie is going and what kind of Hansen, March 20. Members from several engineering surge on Kadena Air Base, March 25. The 67th FS broke a Kadena impact they have on the units around Okinawa competed in honor of St. Patrick the record on March 26, by fl ying 278 sorties in four days. A sortie is mission here. patron saint of engineers. More than 500 Airmen, Marines a mission from the moment an aircraft takes off to when it lands. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Stephen G. Eigel) and Sailors participated in this year’s annual competition. 2015 ANNUAL SAMURAI GATE 9 10 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL APRIL

Brig. Gen. Barry ^ Cornish, 18th Wing commander, receives the guidon from Lt. Gen. Sam The MC-130P Combat Shadow team responsible for Angelella, U.S. plane 0225 performs the fi nal checks before take off on Forces Japan Kadena Air Base, April 15. The 17th Special Operations and 5th Air Force Squadron sent off the fi nal two MC-130P Combat commander, during Shadows in the Pacifi c Air Forces to retire to the aircraft the 18th Wing boneyard at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. change of command ceremony on Kadena Air Base, April 2. Cornish most recently served as an executive offi cer for Pacifi c Air Forces Command, Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam, Hawaii. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Stephen G. Eigel) (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Stephen G. Eigel)

(U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Erik Anthony) (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Marcus Morris) (U.S. Air Force photo by Naoto Anazawa) ^Members of a U.S. Pacifi c Command Joint Humanitarian Assistance Survey Team ^18th Security Forces Squadron response force members inspect Non-combatant ^T-Pain, an American singer and rapper, performs during load onto a U.S. Marine Corps C-130 at Kadena Air Base, on April 29. The team is Evacuation Operation volunteers and their baggage at a security check point during an his concert on Kadena Air Base, April 6. T-Pain performed deploying to Nepal to assist earthquake relief efforts. Kadena’s Airmen worked through exercise on Kadena Air Base, April 8. Non-combatants are evacuated from the island to a in Okinawa, as part of an 18th Force Support Squadron and the night to load the team’s 20-plus members and gear for the departure. safe location in the event of an emergency such as a severe typhoon. NEO exercises are Navy Morale Welfare and Recreation event for a military intended to test effi ciency and what changes may need to be made. service members, their families and local residents. Kadena2015 ANNUAL SAMURAIin April GATE MFE11

(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) ^Senior Airman Christopher Luena and Senior Airman Brian Willford, 67th Fighter Squadron avionics technicians, examine the fl ight systems on an F-15 Eagle during Exercise Beverly High 15-2 on Kadena Air Base, April 20. Exercise BH 15-2 is a local mission focused exercise to prepare the Airmen of the 18th Wing to deploy and react during contingency operations. ^Airman 1st Class Price Carson, Staff Sgt. Devin Davis and Airman 1st Class Carlos Ballesteros, 18th Civil Engineer (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zade C. Vadnais) Squadron fi refi ghters, put out a controlled fi re following a simulated aircraft crash on Kadena Air Base, April 20. The simulated aircraft crash was part of the 18th Wing’s mission-focused exercise and was intended to test the fi re fi ghters’ response time and knowledge of procedures. ^ Airmen with the 18th Medical Group secure a simulated casualty of an active shooter scenario onto the rack of a medical transport bus during Exercise Beverly High 15-2 on Kadena Air Base, April 22. Exercise BH 15-2 allows Airmen to train and make mistakes in a low-risk environment in which they can become more confi dent in their ability to perform under pressure. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) Airman 1st Class Ethan Fox,^ 18th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives team member, uses contamination monitoring equipment on an Airman from the 18th Mission Support Group during Exercise Beverly High 15-2 on Kadena Air Base, April 22. The CBRNE team allowed the Airmen to quickly remove their simulated (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zade C. Vadnais) ^ contaminated gear and get Airman Jack Spadaro, 18th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron aerospace propulsion specialist, is helped to his feet new gear to continue the by two 18th Civil Engineer Squadron fi refi ghters following a simulated vehicle accident on Kadena Air Base, April 21. mission. Spadaro, along with other Airmen from units around the base, pretended to be a victim of a chemical transportation vehicle (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Marcus Morris) accident in order to test fi rst responders’ reaction time and knowledge of self-aid buddy care procedures. 12 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL M A Y

The Kadena ^ Shogun women’s dragon boat racing team huddles before their heat during the Naha Dragon Boat Race at Naha Port, May 5. The women’s team fi nished in 11th place out of 63 other teams and came in third place in their heat.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Darnell T. Cannady) (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) ^Airman 1st Class Will Scott, 909th Air Refueling Squadron boom operator, refuels a B-1B Lancer bomber from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, during a training sortie involving aircraft from Dyess and Kadena Air Base, May 8. The U.S. conducts continuous bomber presence operations as part of a routine, forward deployed, global strike capability supporting regional security and allies in the Asia-Pacifi c region.

Brig. Gen. Barry Cornish, 18th^ Wing commander, and Lisa Velez, 18th Wing community support coordinator, carry snakes during the second annual Wingman Safety Day at the Risner Fitness Center on Kadena Air Base, May 21. The Air Force-wide (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Maeson L. Elleman) ^ Wingman Safety day is Joint military forces, government civilian (U.S Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) ^ designed to reduce the employees and their families participate in an 8.5- An 18th Wing Security Forces patrol car decorated number of accidents and mile march around the Kadena Air Base, fl ightline in teal ribbons leads the Take Back the Night march mishaps during a time of May 23. The Bataan Memorial Death March on Kadena Air Base, May 1. The participants marched year when mishap and memorial ruck was held to honor the American and from the Schilling Community Center parking lot accident rates traditionally Filipino servicemen who defended the island of toward Chapel 2 with noise makers and cowbells, while increase. Luzon in the Philippines in 1942 and had to endure a chanting, symbolizing survivors reclaiming the night, (U.S. Air Force photo by Naoto Anazawa) death march of more than 60 miles. the time when sexual assaults are most likely to occur. 2015 ANNUAL SAMURAI GATE 13 J U N E

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zade C. Vadnais) ^Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Grammy-nominated gospel singer, performs at the Keystone Theater on Kadena Air Base, June 20. Armstrong was the star performer at a gospel music event aimed at promoting spiritual wellness and resiliency among Airmen and their families while strengthening ties (U.S. Air Force photo by Naoto Anazawa) with the local community. ^An F-16 Fighting Falcon from the Vermont Air National Guard’s touches down on the fl ightline of Kadena Air Base, June 16. Approximately 150 personnel and 10 F-16s from the 158th FW at South Burlington, Vt., are set to deploy to the 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base. The Theater Security Package deployment is designed to provide the Pacifi c Command region with forces capable of a variety of operations, including disaster relief, global situational awareness, combating piracy, active defense and power projection.

Kadena’s Girl Scouts and^ Cub Scouts Pack 102 place folded decommissioned American fl ags into a burn barrel during the Flag Day ceremony on Kadena Air Base, June 15. Displaying the fl ag and giving it a distinctive fold shows respect and expresses (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Maeson L. Elleman) (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) gratitude toward those ^Master Sgt. Kenton Lewis, 33rd Rescue Squadron special missions ^Gavin Degraw performs for members of Team who have fought and aviator, simulates hoisting a casualty from the water using a winch aboard Kadena and their families during Rockin’ the Block continue to fi ght for a 33rd RQS HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter during a large force exercise on Kadena Air Base, June 27. The event also freedom at home and near Okinawa, June 30. The exercise, which integrated U.S. Air Force featured performances from Japanese musicians. abroad. and Marine Corps assets on Okinawa, was designed to allow the units to Rockin’ the Block was held as a community practice air-to-air capabilities while supporting ground troops. celebration of the Fourth of July. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel) 14 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL 2015 ANNUAL SAMURAI GATE 15 16 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL JULY

(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Corey Pettis) ^Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Cody congratulates Tech. Sgt. Robert Marcy, 18th Component Maintenance ^Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, speaks to service members and their families July 23 at USO Squadron production supervisor, for his hard work and the impact he has on the Air Force in front of an F-15 Eagle on Kadena Air Kadena at Kadena Air Base. Biden stopped in at the Kadena USO Block Party after traveling around Indo-Asia- Base, July 7. While on Kadena, Cody spoke face-to-face with enlisted personnel that made up Team Kadena. Pacifi c countries, promoting educational opportunities and economic empowerment for women.

Airmen from the 158th Airmen from the 18th Logistics Readiness Fighter^ Wing Air National Squadron^ from Kadena Air Base, partnered Guard check the fl ight with the Australian Army during a refueling systems of an F-16 Fighting exercise at the Royal Australian Air Force Falcon on Kadena Air Base Darwin, July 8, in Darwin, Australia Base, July 16. The Vermont during Talisman Sabre 2015. Talisman ANG, also known as the Sabre is a biennial exercise that provides Green Mountain Boys, are an invaluable opportunity for nearly 30,000 deployed to Kadena to U.S. and Australian defense forces to enhance regional security conduct operations in a combined, joint and in the Indo-Asia-Pacifi c interagency environment that will increase region and demonstrate both countries’ ability to plan and execute the U.S. commitment to a full range of operations from combat stability in the region. missions to humanitarian assistance efforts. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Steven Peterson) 2015 ANNUAL SAMURAI GATE 17 AUGUST

Japan Air ^ Self-Defense Force Col. Hirohisa Takakusaki, 8th Air Wing Operations Group commander, greets Lt. Col. Kevin Jamieson, 44th Fighter Squadron commander, at Tsuiki Air Base, Aug. 21. More than 150 Airmen from the 18th Wing and the fi rst group of F-15 Eagles from the 44th Fighter Squadron began Aviation Training Relocation.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel) (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Stephen G. Eigel) ^The 18th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight destroys unserviceable munitions as well as unexploaded ordnance using 50 M112 Demolition blocks of C-4 explosives on Kadena Air Base, Aug. 12. The team routinely disposes of unserviceable munitions and recovered UXOs found on Kadena.

Airmen go through a reception ^ processing unit as part of a Mission Focused Exercise on Kadena Air Base, Aug. 5. Representatives from various base agencies provided booths for mock-deployers in order to quickly and effectively prepare them for (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Maeson L. Elleman) their simulated assignments. ^Airmen of the 909th Maintenance MFEs are designed to simulate (U.S. Air Force photo by Naoto Anazawa) Squadron on Kadena Air Base, prepare a contingency operations taken ^Kadena Language Institute students read a Japanese KC-135 Stratotanker to relocate to another from one or more of the wing’s story book in English for volunteers from the 18th Wing during installation to avoid Typhoon Goni Aug. 8. mission sets such as forward a culture exchange at Kadena Rotary Plaza, Aug. 14. The event In standard preparation of typhoons, power projection with the was designed to help the local students improve their English numerous fl ying squadrons on the base purpose of polishing procedures skills in various situations and also aimed to deepen friendships relocate their aircraft to other bases in and demonstrating capabilities. and mutual understanding between the students and military the region to protect them from possible (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier) volunteers through language, culture and activities. damaging winds and debris. 18 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Lynette Rolen) ^Staff Sgt. Thomas Lewellen, 18th Component Maintenance Squadron aircraft fuel systems craftsman, and Senior Airman Elizabeth Melton, 18th CMS fuel systems journeyman, repair an aircraft fuel pylon on Kadena Air Base, Aug. 4. Lewellen has worked on aircraft for his nine years in the Air Force. Considered to be the most knowledgeable person in his shop concerning his work with fuels and F-15s, he fi nds the time to combine performing his own job as well as supervising and mentoring Airmen.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Maeson L. Elleman) ^Tech. Sgt. David Williamson, 733rd Air Mobility Squadon, stands next to (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Jason W. Edwards) (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Corey M. Pettis) a 36th Airlift Squadron C-17 Globemaster III cargo aircraft on the Kadena Air ^Retired Col. John Buchanan visits his former Stearley Heights home Sept. ^Lt. Col. Alexander Haddad, 44th Fighter Squadron pilot, exits an F-15 Eagle Base, fl ightline June 9. In addition to the hard work he puts into his Air Force 10, on Kadena Air Base. Buchanan was the fi rst resident of the base housing after reaching 2,000 fl ying hours Nov. 19, at Kadena Air Base. Lt. Col. Haddad career, Williamson also strives to improve his rap career outside the uniform. unit upon its completion in 1951. is the fi fth Kadena F-15 pilot to reach 2,000 fl ying hours since 2009.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier) (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zackary A. Henry) (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman John Linzmeier) ^Master Sgt. David Custer, Vermont Air National Guard’s 158th Maintenance ^Senior Airman Chance Sheek, 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron vehicle ^Christopher Fukui and Joshua McNelley are U.S. Air Force captains from Squadron lead crew chief, stands in front of a F-16 Fighting Falcon July, 16, operations vehicle operator, stands next to forklifts he works with every day on the 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron at Kadena Air Base. Both Airmen are on Kadena Air Base. His name can be found printed on the right side of the Kadena Air Base, June 29. During the week, Sheek does anything from driving descendants of Sailors who fought in the Battle of Midway in World War II. Fukui’s aircraft as he is held responsible for ensuring the jet is properly maintained. The around distinguished visitors to loading trucks, but as a member of the Civil Air great-grandfather, Chisato Morita, commanded the Imperial Japanese Navy 158th ANG Fighter Wing is providing a theater security package throughout the Patrol, he leads cadets through search and rescue exercises and teaches them Midway Flying Corps aboard the aircraft carrier Akagi and McNelley’s grandfather, Indo-Asia-Pacifi c region. skills like using compasses, land navigation, radio usage and basic medical skills. Ray Sorton, a U.S. Navy Sailor, manned an anti-aircraft gun during the battle.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman John Linzmeier) (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman First Class Lynette Rolen) ^Katie Evans, former U.S. Air Force captain and 18th Force Support ^Staff Sgt. Jomar Perez, 718th Civil Engineer Squadron construction ^Tech. Sgt. Bethany Watson, 18th Wing First Term Airman Center NCO in Squadron manpower and personnel fl ight commander, gives a briefi ng about management inspector, grew up in the Philippines and overcame many cultural charge, sits on her lead Spin stationary bicycle July 13, at the Risner Fitness the career intermission program on Kadena Air Base, June 18. The CIP offers adversities as he transitioned to an Air Force career. He was recognized by Brig. Center on Kadena Air Base. Watson has been a Spin class instructor at the Airmen the opportunity to take a sabbatical from their Air Force career in return Gen. Barry Cornish, 18th Wing commander, with the Shogun Spotlight Award for Risner Fitness Center since December 2014. Watson uses her class as an for twice the amount of months taken. his outstanding work performance. Photo taken Sept. 11, on Kadena Air Base. opportunity to improve not only her own physical fi tness, but the fi tness of others.

Kanucha Resort Stardust Fantasia There are numerous entertainments, including the Dates “Luminous Garden Area” by the waterside where 1 Nov 2015 through 29 Feb 2016 “Illumination Fantasia”, a mesmerizing show of light Lighting hours and sounds create an experience of illusion, making it a Until December 2015: 18:00 - 23:00 perfect photo opportunity. After January 2016: 19:00 - 23:00 The iconic “Mother Tree” among others, makes the (Entrance closes at 21:30) area almost feel saintly with the daily lighting ceremony. Fees (Regular) Tickets Guests are also invited to take part in the lighting · Advanced 2000 JPY (tax incl.) ceremony, with an extended fee. The new “3D Projection · Day of 3000 JPY (tax incl.) Mapping Theatre” starting in 1 December, the place One ticket allows for one vehicle entry becomes a perfect setting for a romantic night out. Large vehicles (i.e. micro-buses or bigger) need to Environmental friendly alternatives like LED lights and have two tickets carbon offset schemes are also planned to be in place. * Exceptions on 24-25 December and New Year’s Eve: entrance limited to only hotel guests and facility users. Special Time Offers * Hotel guests and facility users will be free of charge 24 December through 25 December Contact info Christmas Songs Night: At Kanucha’s very own Kanucha Resort (representative) 0980-55-8880 “Stelar Church”, musicians will sing popular songs Kanucha Resort from a wide range of genres including jazz, latin as 156-2 Aza Abu, Nago City, Okinawa, Japan well as classical music. Directions: 31 December 1hour 20min from Naha International Airport by car or The Final Count Down Illusion: The special shuttle bus (fee charged) New Year’s Eve event with lots of perks and lucky fortunes for the coming year, an overall exciting http://www.kanucha.jp/event/stafan/ entertainment stage. paid advertisement 2015 ANNUAL SAMURAI GATE 19

Out&About page is paid advertisement

Samurai Gate’s hot pick of the latest island goings-on Modern Japanese restaurant incorporating LA sushi trend KAMI SUSHI

Lunch set with sushi and tempura (¥980) Kami Sushi’s popular roll selections (from ¥650) Kami Sushi is a popular Japanese restau- rant off ers a wide variety of dishes from rant located on the second fl oor of Seaside Japanese, Okinawan and Western cuisine Square in Mihama American Village. Th e including various kinds of sushi, sashimi, open interior of the restaurant is stylish- tempura and pasta. At dinnertime, win- ly white, and the counter seats face the dow seating recommended; the view of metallic kitchen, which is reminiscent of the Ferris wheel at night is a treat for the upscale Japanese dining in urban America. eyes. Th ere are more than 20 specialty su- At Kami Sushi, you can enjoy the novel, shi rolls. In addition, the restaurant off ers artistic sushi rolls made by the owner, who a large selection of alcoholic beverages was head chef at a local hotel restaurant including awamori, Japanese sake, local for over 20 years. His artistic works are Nihede beer and cocktails. More than 150 made with select ingredients, garnished items are on the menu. Reasonably-priced with a special colorful sauce. Th e restau- set meals are available for lunch. Okinawa Kami Sushi Hours (Open daily) : Mon - Fri 11:30 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. / 5:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. Sat & Sun 11:30 a.m.-10:00 p.m. (last order 9:30 p.m.) 9-8 Mihama, Chatan, Seaside Square 2F Tel: 098-926-3290 $/credit cards accepted English menu available 20 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL SEPTEMBER

(U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Maeson L. Elleman) ^A Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) carrying vehicles and simulated Airmen from the 320th Special Tactics Squadron, Kadena Air Base, perform a helo-casting jump victims maneuvers to land at Atta Port, Japan, during an annual Okinawa Prefectural Government bilateral out of a HH-60G Pave Hawk from the 33rd Rescue Squadron during an amphibious operations disaster response exercise Sept. 5. The training, which has been conducted several times annually already, exercise Sept. 22, off the West Coast of Okinawa. Team members are qualifi ed in non-standard has previously involved U.S. Marine Corps personnel and equipment from around the island, but this is the fi rst methods of infi ltration to include, static line, military freefall, and closed and open circuit diving. time Japanese aircraft have used Kadena’s runways as a reception point for JSDF responders from Honshu, or mainland Japan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman John Linzmeier) Brig. Gen. Barry Cornish, 18th^ Wing commander, Airman 1st Class Aubrina Fairweather, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron operations manager apprentice, and retired Chief Master Sgt. John W. Perkins cut the cake with a saber during the 2015 Air Force Ball Sept. 19, at the Rocker NCO Club on Kadena Air Base. It is a tradition for the youngest and (U.S. Air Force photo by Naoto Anazawa) (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zackary A. Henry) oldest Airmen to cut the cake ^Master Sgt. David Ibsen, 320th Special Tactics ^Personnel from the 18th Medical Group guide volunteers playing the together to signify respect and Squadron combat control, leads Airmen in a 24-hour vigil part of a fl ight crew on to a medical bus for transport to a simulated honor afforded to experience run at Marek Park Sept. 18, on Kadena Air Base. More than quarantine zone during a medical emergency management exercise and seniority while symbolizing 600 Team Kadena community members participated in the Sept. 21, at Kadena Air Base. The 18th MDG can face any number of the newer generation of Airmen vigil run with the POW/MIA fl ag, keeping the fl ag moving unusual and life threatening situations, which is why exercises like this who are fi lling in the ranks. for 24 hours straight in honor of American POWs and MIAs. one play such an important part of their training. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman John Linzmeier)

Moon Ocean Ginowan 2015-2016 Guide To New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Events NEW YEAR’S DAY 1 Jan. 2016 (Fri) Tea Refreshments with Live “Koto” Performance We invite you to a relaxing moment with fi ne powdered green tea and beautiful timbre of Japanese traditional 13 strings Welcome Service - Variety of Okinawan instrument. (Koto) Time: Tea Time / Confectioneries 9:30-11:30 (Tea Ceremony in accordance We invite you to come and enjoy a to “Omote-Senk” school-Shofu-Kao) Live moment of relaxation tasting variety of “Koto” Performance / 9:30-10:00 / 11:00- confectioneries from Okinawa. Time / 11:30 (Performed by Yoko Onaga Koto 15:00-16:00 Venue / Ground Floor Lobby school) Venue / Ground Floor Lobby You can enjoy all of the above events New Year’s Rice-Cake Making at Moon Ocean Ginowan and Hotel Performance Moon Beach free of charge. all above NEW YEAR’S EVE / NEW YEAR’S DAY events will conclude in accordance 31 Dec. 2015 (Thu) - 1 Jan. 2016 (Fri) to the time indicated. paid advertisement 2015 ANNUAL SAMURAI GATE 21

An F-15C Eagle from the 44th Fighter Squadron fl ies over Kadena Air Base, during a training surge, Jan. 15. Normally, the unit fl ies about 70 sorties in four days but during a surge, the unit will fl y roughly 70 or more sorties in one day.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Naoto Anazawa) An F-22 Raptor prepares to^ refuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 909th Air Refueling Squadron during Exercise Northern Edge, June 26. Northern Edge 2015 is Alaska’s joint training exercise designed to practice operations, tactics, techniques and procedures as well as enhance interoperability among the services. Thousands of airmen, (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Marcus Morris) soldiers, sailors, Marines ^Twelve KC-135 Stratotankers from the 909th Air Refueling Squadron taxi onto the runway during the Forceful Tiger exercise on Kadena Air Base, and Coast Guardsmen April 1. During the aerial exercise, the Stratotankers delivered 800,000 pounds of fuel to approximately 50 aircraft. from active duty, Reserve and National Guard units, including tankers from the Multiple F-15’s and a E-3 Sentry participate in exercise Cope Tiger 18th Air Refueling Wing Korat, Thailand, March 17. CT15 includes 22 total fl ying units and over out of Kadena Air Base are 1390 personnel from three countries and continues the growth of strong, involved. interoperable, and benefi cial relationships within the Asia-Pacifi c region through integration of airborne and land-based command and control assets. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Thor J. Larson)

A B-1B Lancer bomber belonging to Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, fl ies through the sky after refueling during a training sortie involving aircraft from Dyess and Kadena Air Base, May 8. During this training, a Kadena-based KC-135 Stratotanker from the 909th Air Refueling Squadron traveled to Guam to allow crews from both aircraft to practice refueling procedures. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Darnell T. Cannady) (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Taylor Queen) 22 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL OCTOBER

Airmen from the 18th Civil Engineer Group push a Humvee during a Wingman Day relay at Kenny Park Oct. 2, on Kadena Air

Base. Wingman Day was an opportunity ^ for Airmen to step outside of their Civil engineers day-to-day work environment to focus from the Japan Air on team-building exercises as part of the Self-Defense Force Comprehensive Airmen Fitness Program. Southwestern Composite Air Division and the 18th Wing fold a fi berglass mat during the bilateral training day, Oct. 22, on Kadena Air Base. Civil engineers from Naha Air Base and Kadena Air Base improved bilateral relations by training together to repair a 50 foot crater.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Naoto Anazawa) (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) Chief Master Sgt.^ Charles Hoffman, 18th Wing command chief master sergeant, high- fi ves a local Okinawan child Oct. 31, at Kadena Air Base. Kadena welcomed over 200 local (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman John Linzmeier) community ^Master Sgt. Shane Hargis, Alaska Air National Guard’s 212th members and Rescue Squadron pararescueman, and Maj. Jay Casello, 212th RQS participated in combat rescue offi cer, begin a mock search for survivors aboard a trick-or-treating Guardian Angel rescue craft Oct. 31, near the coast of White Beach (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Nicholas Emerick) with them. Naval Base. The rescue team was airdropped by a C-17 Globemaster ^Pararescueman with the 31st Rescue Squadron demonstrates cutting a car apart to retrieve from Alaska ANG’s 249th Airlift Squadron in a long range search and any injured as part of Rescue Fest on Oct. 3, at Kadena Air Base. Rescue Fest is a yearly event rescue exercise. where the 31st and 33rd Rescue Squadrons demonstrate their capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Lynette M. Rolen)

Christmas Seasonal Fair Moon Beach 23th through the 25th of December From 1st December Acropaula Premium Christmas Dinner Buffet at the Corallo Christmas Cocktail Fair A clown will give your child a special gift to Enjoy a special Christmas themed Cocktail celebrate the holidays at a classic style bar Adults 5,000 JPY/Children 3,000 JPY (tax not Christmas Cocktails 1,000 JPY/each (tax not included) Hours: 18:00 – 22:00 (21:30 LO) included) Hours: 21:00 – 24:00 (LO 23:30) Through the 1st until the 25th of New Years Information December On the 31st of December at 22:00 there will be Christmas Special Menus available at the a New Years Count Down Event for all guests! Japanese-style Grill Restaurant Yuragi-Zuki (Okinawan music, Tahitian dance show, lottery Savor a true blend of Asian and Western tournament, Japanese sake cask openings, cuisine from our limited time menu New Years fi reworks) One person 5,000 JPY (tax not incl.) 1st & 2nd of January there will be Hours: 18:00 – 22:00 (21:30 LO) events planed for guests 23th through the 25th of December 1st of January – Mochi-pounding Lanai Lounge Bar Special Live Entertainment tournament, Japanese sake cask Enjoy a live music show with your favorite drink openings, shishimai dance, traditional in hand Okinawan snacks served with tea 1st stage: 18:00-, 2nd stage: 19:40, 3rd stage: 2nd of January – Live performance of the koto, 21:20 (1 act 40 min. Drink charge non- Japanese style tea celebration, traditional included) Hours: 10:00-22:00 (LO 21:30) Okinawan snacks paid advertisement 2015 ANNUAL SAMURAI GATE 23 NOVEMBER

An Airman assigned to the 320th Special Tactics Squadron rides a Humvee as Lt. Col. Edmund Loughran, 320th STS commander walks along side during Kadena’s fi rst Veterans Day parade held Nov. 11 at Kadena Air Base. Service members from different branches of the United States military on Kadena Air Base, came together on Veterans Day to commemorate Veterans Day.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Corey M. Pettis) ^Staff Sgt. Darren Harris, 18th Security Forces Squadron, shows children how the radio on the patrol car works at Skoshi Warrior Nov. 14, at Kadena Air Base. More than 200 children participated in this annual event, meant to show children their parents’ deployment process and to see different aspects of military jobs. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Kristine Dreyer) Kohei Setake, a Kadena^ Special Olympics athlete, wins fi rst place in a 200 meter dash during the Kadena Special Olympics Nov. 7, at Kadena Air Base. Established by the 18th Wing commander in 2000, KSO is a sporting and entertainment (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman John Linzmeier) event that provides ^Residents of Chatan Town follow Teruya Youhei, 18th an opportunity for all (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Jason W. Edwards) Security Forces Squadron civilian guard, to higher ground communities involved ^Americans and Japanese work side-by-side during the during a bilateral tsunami exercise Nov. 5, at Kadena to stand together in tug-of-war competition, Nov. 28, at the Okinawa International Air Base. The exercise entailed the evacuation of local support of people with Carnival. Approximately 25,000 people attended the annual Okinawans from low elevation areas near the Sunabe special needs. event, which highlights Okinawa City’s international culture. Seawall to higher ground on base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Lynette M. Rolen)

Matsumoto Apt Yomitan Home ¥165,000/ ¥185,000/ month. month. 2 bedrooms, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. 1.5 bath. Very close to Easy access Kadena 2/3. to 58.

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Okinawa City Konbu House Apt ¥177,000/ ¥160,000/ month. month. 3 bedrooms, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths. 1.5 baths. 5 minutes 15 minutes to Camp from Kadena. Courtney.

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Nago House ¥170,000/ month. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Single Home close to Hansen.

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Uruma House ¥185,000/ month. 2 bedrooms, 1 bath. Modern Japanese Home.

ACE family Housing 098-929-1808 24 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL DECEMBER

(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) ^American singer-performer Yasuaki Nakama, Okinawa City Fire Department ^ John Legend performs Dec. 12, captain, briefs a training plan to Okinawa City Fire during Tinsel Town at Kadena Air Department and Kadena Fire Department crew Base. Tinsel Town is Kadena’s members during a bilateral hazardous materials annual holiday celebration training exercise, Dec. 8, at the Okinawa City Civic offering meet-and-greets with Center. The Kadena Fire Department and Okinawa Santa and Mrs. Claus, games, City Fire Department trained together to build food and free entertainment. profi ciency and understanding with each other. (U.S. Air Force photo by Naoto Anazawa) Senior Airman Griffi n Airman 1st Class Darren Dalton, ^ ^ Rusk, 33rd Helicopter 18th Communications Squadron Maintenance Unit cable and antenna systems fl ight control specialist, technician, places his Santa removes a stabilator Claus costume hat on a child at transmitter for the the Midori School-Age Program depot fi eld team during during a volunteer visit, Dec. 10, in a phase inspection Okinawa City. Fourteen volunteers Dec. 10, at Kadena Air from Kadena’s Top 3 and the 18th Base. Rusk is assisting Communications Squadron brought the depot fi eld team a little Christmas cheer when they responsible for any visited the SAP. This gave the kids the and all maintenance opportunity to indulge in American that the 33rd HMU can Christmas customs by decorating not fi x in-house. cookies and meeting Santa Claus. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Zackary A. Henry) (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Maeson L. Elleman) 2015 ANNUAL SAMURAI GATE 25 26 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL

To submit an announcement for the base bulletin, please visit www.kadena.af.mil NO FEDERAL ENDORSEMENT OF PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS OR ACTIVITIES IS INTENDED.

information or an emergency, contact information, call Maj. Tonya Spencer at critical steps in the AFN Okinawa building Kadena and Camp Foster stand-by personnel at 634-1800. 630-4785 or Tech. Sgt. Shelley Thomas at construction. During this outage, listeners emergency numbers 630-4992. will still able to receive AM channel 648, Kadena Fire Emergency Services would 10 AFNs and 360 radio channels. For more like to remind everyone to program their NAF Human Resource Office information, call Master Sgt. Colleen Jones cell phones with the emergency numbers. closure New Kadena Air Base Honor at 645-7589. To report an emergency on Kadena via The Non-appropriated Funds Human Guard sharepoint cell, dial 098-934-5911, and from an offi ce Resources Offi ce closure schedule: The Kadena Air Base Honor Guard has phone, dial 911. For Camp Foster via cell, Dec. 23: Closed at 1 p.m. a new share point address. Please use Job opportunities with Women, dial 098-911-1911, or from an offi ce phone, Dec. 24-25: Closed all day the following address to access the new Infants & Children Overseas dial 911. Dec. 30: Closed at 1 p.m. site: https://kadena.eis.pacaf.af.mil/orgs/ Choctaw Contracting Services has a part- Dec. 31: Closed all day honorguard/SitePages/Home.aspx. For time position available at the Camp Foster Jan. 1, 2016: Closed all day more information, call Tech. Sgt. Tena Women, Infants & Children Overseas offi ce. Upcoming Kadena Medical Clinic Jan. 18-19: Closed all day Briscoe at 634-0630. The position requires the applicant to be hours of operation & closures For more information, call Florca Lewis- a Registered Dietitian/Registered Nurse/ With the exception of federal holidays and Clear at 632-8908. Home Economist/Physician Assistant. The down days, the Kadena Medical Clinic Cancelling Medical Appointments position requires a Bachelor of Science hours of operation are Monday through The Kadena Clinic, with the exception of Mental Health is making it easier to cancel degree in Nutrition, Dietetics, Nursing Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 Pass and Registration closures or a degree in Home Economics with an a.m. to noon every third Thursday of the medical appointments with the new 24/7 and training days cancellation feature. Call 630-4817 or emphasis in nutrition. Experience with WIC month. Patients may experience longer than The Pass and Registration upcoming and/or experience with the maternal/child normal call-wait times on the appointment closures and training days schedule: commercial (098) 960-4817, press option 6 and leave a voicemail with your appointment population are desirable. Good computer line and a perceived decrease in access Dec. 24: PACAF Down Day skills are required, must be U.S citizen and to care after closures and training due to Dec. 25: Christmas Day information. This voicemail box is password protected and can only be accessed by have a current driver’s license. For more increased appointment demand. Please be Dec. 31: PACAF Down Day information, e-mail your resume and cover patient with the clinical staff as they work to Jan. 1, 2016: New Year’s Day certifi ed clinic appointing agents. The information that you provide will remain letter to [email protected] or fax to fulfi ll your medical needs. Jan. 18: Martin Luther King Day Margaret Applewhite at (210) 525-1398. Upcoming closures and training days: Jan. 19: PACAF Down Day protected. For medical staff to properly Dec. 24: PACAF Down Day Jan. 28: Training Day (open from 7:30 a.m. cancel your appointment provide them Dec. 25: Christmas Day to Noon) your rank if active duty, your fi rst and last 18th MXG AFREP Dec. 31: PACAF Down Day For more information, call Staff Sgt. Jerret name, last four numbers of the sponsor’s The 18th Maintenance Group Air Force Jan. 1: New Year’s Day Snodgrass at 634-3437. social security number, the patient’s date Repair Enhancement Program is a repair Jan. 18: Martin Luther King Day of birth, the clinic, and the date and time facility on base specializing in stock-listed Jan. 19: PACAF Down Day of the appointment you wish to cancel, or items with a particular focus on frequently Jan. 21: Training Day (7:30 a.m. to noon) Holiday outreach efforts cancel online at www.tricareonline.com. For ordered and high dollar XB3/XF3 items. For Feb. 8: Training Holiday Please contact the Public Affairs Offi ce more information, call 18th Medical Group more information, call 634-5337/9508 or Feb. 15: President’s Day if your unit or organization is planning practice manager at 630-4303. email [email protected]. Feb. 16: PACAF Down Day any holiday outreach efforts in the local Feb. 18: Training Day (7:30 a.m. to noon) community. Call 634-3813 or email 18wg. [email protected]. 2016 Presidential Primaries MPS Extended Walk-in Hours For on-base emergencies after normal hours 2016 Presidential Elections are nearly and closures of operation, hang up and dial 911 or 098- underway. Register to vote now. There will be no extended walk-in services 934-5911, or go to the U.S. Naval Hospital 2016 Air Force Astronaut Upcoming primaries by state are: and will closed at noon, Dec. 23. The MPS Emergency Room on Camp Foster. For Nomination Program Feb. 20: South Carolina (Republican) will be closed Dec. 24-25, and 31 as well non-emergency concerns that cannot wait The Air Force is accepting applications Feb. 27: South Carolina (Democratic) as Jan. 1, 2016. For more information, call until normal hours of operation, please call from highly qualifi ed offi cers and enlisted March 1: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Senior Master Sgt. Fabrienne Burnett at 646-7484 or 098-971-7484. You may also members to participate in the Air Force Massachusetts, Oklahoma, Tennessee, 634-9407. send a secure message to your Health Care Astronaut Nomination Program. Members Texas, Vermont, Virginia Team via MiCare at https://app.relayhealth. who meet the basic eligibility criteria are March 5: Lousiana com. or exercise your options to self-book encouraged to apply. For more information, March 8: Michigan, Mississippi Part-time Job Opportunities for Primary Care appointments through TriCare visit https://mypers.af.mil/app/answers/ March 15: Florida, Illinois, Missouri, North Catholic Singer Online at www.tricareonline.com. detail/aid/30409. Carolina, Ohio The Kadena Holy Catholic Family is March 22: Arizona seeking a singer/cantor for both the 10 For a full list go to: http://www.fvap. a.m. Christmas Mass on Dec. 25 and the Kadena Base Post Office Med Group anonymous feedback gov/vao/vag/appendix/state-elections. 6 p.m. New Year’s Day Mass Jan. 1, 2016 upcoming closures The 18th Medical Group has just For more information, visit the Kadena at Chapel 1 on Kadena. Experience is Dec. 25 - 27: closed implemented the Mystery Patient program Voting Sharepoint site at: https://kadena. preferred. For more information, contact Dec. 28: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. which allows patients to anonymously eis.pacaf.af.mil/18WG/programs/VAO/ Heather Kleinwolterink at 080-6498-2291 Jan. 1-3, 2016: closed grade our facilities and our patient/staff SitePages/Home.aspx, or talk to your or email at heatherschapelstaffi ng@gmail. For more information, email Tech. Sgt. interactions in several different areas of squadrons UVAO, or email vote.kadena@ com or read more on the website: www. Ashunta Taylor at [email protected] performance. To participate, simply obtain us.af.mil. heatherschapelstaffi ng.com. or call 634-2155. a Mystery Patient Questionnaire from the Customer Service desk located at the main TMO closure entrance of the MDG; the questionnaire AFN Okinawa outage Part-time Position for Catholic Traffi c Management Offi ce will be closed at can either be fi lled out during or after your The AFN Okinawa Television and FM Radio Singer 2 p.m., Dec. 18 for an offi cial function. appointment and once it is complete, it can services will be suspended for several The Kadena Holy Catholic Family is seeking Please plan accordingly. For more be placed it into any of the ICE comment hours Dec. 22 from approximately 10 a.m. a singer/cantor for 8 a.m. Sunday services. boxes located within the facility. For more to 2 p.m. This outage is necessary for Continued on PAGE 27 2015 ANNUAL SAMURAI GATE 27 A singer is needed for this Sunday, Dec. 20. civilian dependents are equally encouraged Singers will be hired by Heather’s Chapel to apply. For more information, call Caitlin Staffi ng. For more information, contact Mansell at 090-6866-5105. Heather Kleinwolterink at 080-6498-2291 or email at heatherschapelstaffi ng@gmail. Risner Fitness Center needs com or read the complete work statement volunteers at www.heatherschapelstaffi ng.com. The Risner Fitness Center is seeking volunteers for the Jingle Jog 5K to meet Koza City Hiphop Dance Show at the Risner Fitness Center Dec. 19 at ticket available 7 a.m. The event will start at 8 a.m. and If you did not know Okinawa is known to be duties include: set up, road guards, water a hotspot for hip hop dance with Okinawan station monitors and tear down. For more teams competing in and winning Japanese information or sign up, call at 634-5129 or and international competitions. Find out visit the Risner front desk. why by seeing What’s Up Akemi Dance Group’s Christmas Show on from 6 - 7 A.C.E. Gate 2 Clean-up volunteer p.m. at the Okinawa City Concert Hall. The activity groups’ performers are from 5-18 years The next Gate 2 clean-up will be Dec. 20. old and are sure to add excitement to your The meeting place will be the dining patio holiday season. The event is a part of Koza behind Chili’s Too at 3 p.m. This event NPO and for ticket and other information can usually lasts about an hour and supplies are be gotten by contacting WhatUpDanceOki@ provided. If it is raining, it will be cancelled. yahoo.com. For more information, contact Airman 1st Class Sebastian Jewell at 634-8989 or at [email protected] with any UPCOMING EVENTS questions. Chief Mast Sgt. selection party Join Kadena’s newest chief master sergeants as they celebrate their promotion selection 3 p.m. Dec. 18, at the Banyan Tree Club. This event is open to all ranks and their family members. Introduction to Buddhism Seminar An Introduction to Buddhism Seminar will be held at Chapel 3 on Kadena from 7-8 p.m. Dec. 21. This seminar is an open event to provide introductory level information about the Buddhist practice. It is sponsored and conducted by the Kadena/Okinawa Soka Gakkai International Buddhist group and open to everyone. For more information, contact Richard Tollini at 634-3929 or at 090-1942-1066 or at richard.tollini.ctr@ us.af.mil, or Tom Harter at harold.harter@ us.af.mil or at 634-1776.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Cheer coaches needed Eagle All Star Cheerleading is seeking experienced coaches. Active duty and 28 SAMURAI GATE 2015 ANNUAL HolidaysHolidays GreeteingsGreeteings