44th Fighter Squadron F-15 Eagle and Navy Strike Fighter Squadron 27 and 102, F/A-18 Super Hornets, assigned to Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, fl y in formation after a training sortie Feb. 16, over Okinawa. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Reft) By Senior Airman how to adapt and work with members eff ective defense possible by understand- conjunction with the F-15, which helps Nick Emerick of other branches at a moment’s notice; ing both the capabilities and limitations us to develop tactics, making us more 18th Wing Public Affairs exercises such as these greatly increase of their counterparts. lethal and successful overall.” 2/28/2017 — Members of the 44th Fight- our mission capability and readiness,” “Th is is the fi rst time in a while that According to Jamieson, not only do er Squadron on Kadena Air Base, hosted said CDR Dan Cochran, VFA-27 Strike the 44th has been able to integrate with these types of joint trainings exercises training as part of a multi-branch exercise Fighter Squadron commander. “Normal- the Navy at a tactical level; we’ve done strengthen the U.S. military team, but with U.S. Navy pilots and maintainers ly when we operate together, the Navy is a lot of operational level training, but they also reconfi rm to our partner from Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan. generally based off of a ship, while the Air the ability to work at the tactical level nations that America is always there Th e exercise took place Feb. 13 – 17, Force is land based. Th is training gave allows us to improve our skills in entirely in every mission, every domain, and in and allowed members from both services us the opportunity to brief and debrief diff erent ways including the defensive every location. to learn about the diff erent types of oper- together, learn from each other and work counter-air mindset. Th is allows us to “Th e training we are conducting ations conducted by each other, as well as side by side.” ultimately achieve our objectives,” said has allowed us to enhance U.S. forces the capabilities of the other’s aircraft s. According to Cochran, opportunities Lt. Col. Kevin Jamieson, 44th FS com- interoperability, which serves to bolster “Training with a diff erent service is such as these are important teamwork mander. “We learned a lot about how both services’ capability to defend assets important because when executing the training opportunities, both Navy and the F/A-18 Super Hornet works, and and allies in Japan and throughout the air defense mission it’s integral to know Air Force pilots can provide the most what part it plays in mission execution in Indo-Asia Pacifi c Th eater,” said Cochran. 2 SAMURAI GATE MARCH 3, 2017 Team Kadena looks back Then and now
33rd Rescue Squadron has been station on the island of Okinawa, uninterrupted since 1971, they offi cially joined the 18th Wing in 1993. The 33rd RQS plays a vital part in maintaining peace and stability in the Pacifi c Region by providing forward power projection as well as search, rescue and recovery mission capabilities. The HH-60G Pave Hawk, which is capable of rescue missions in different environments, night or day, is used by the 33rd RQS. The 33rd RQS maintains readiness for mobilization, deployment and employment of helicopters and rescue of U.S. and allied military members, and civilians when necessary. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Senior Airman Nick Emerick) U.S. departs Aero India, leaves stronger relationships behind By Capt. Mark Lazane C-130J Super Hercules assigned Patrol Squadron 10. “We hope Pacifi c Air Forces Public Affairs to the 143rd Airlift Wing, Rhode this air show is a steppingstone 2/27/2017 - BENGALARU, Island Air National Guard, were to further our partnership with KA, India — U.S. aircraft , crew all on display for the estimated India through military-to-mili- and support personnel, as well 500,000 people in attendance. tary interoperability.” as members of the Department Th e C-130J and F-16 also Th e sizable crowd was not of State and other U.S. represen- participated in the aerial demon- the only group of people who tatives returned home this week stration portion of the show. enjoyed the airshow experience. aft er a strong showing at Aero Th e C-130J played an especial- “Demonstrating the capa- India 2017 at Air Force Station ly pivotal role when it delivered bilities of the C-130J draws me Yelahanka, India Feb. 20. U.S. Air Force members from the to participate,” said Maj. Mike On the heels of the recently 320th Special Tactics Squadron, Collins, a RIANG C-130J pilot. announced Major Defense Kadena Air Base with special “It was enjoyable fl ying the air- Partnership between the United operations paratroopers from drop profi le and displaying the (U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Mark Lazane) States and India, the represen- the Indian Army’s 2nd Parachute tactical ability of this aircraft . ^MaryKay Carlson, Charge d’Affaires of the U.S. Mission to India, stands outside a P-8 tation of American airpower Regiment on two freefall jumps, We performed multiple joint Poseidon with U.S. Navy Commander Mike Albus, pilot and Executive Offi cer for Fixed Wing Patrol Squadron 10, as part of Aero India 2017 at Air Force Station Yelahanka, India Feb. 16. and the robust senior-level U.S. to the delight of the crowd. force airdrops including joint Government delegation present Th e C-130J’s inclusion was a jumpmaster briefi ngs and daily take in the sensationalism of be- Th e P-8 crew was similarly during the show demonstrated capstone to a two-week training detailed mission coordination ing on this side of the fl ight line,” enthused by the experience and the U.S. commitment to India, a event that marked the fi rst time exercises. Working with 2 Para said Albus. “We train exclusively the opportunity to share their growing and pivotal relationship. a USAF C-130J has operated on Indian Special Forces at Aero for the operational mission, and mission with several Indian Th e United States does not the Indian subcontinent. India was fl awless in communi- when our combat air crews have distinguished visitors, including look at Aero India as a trade- In addition, at the request of cation and execution and I hold an opportunity to put their skills the Indian Chief of Naval Staff , show, but rather as an opportu- the Indian Navy, the U.S. Navy my Indian military counterparts to the test on a real-life mission, Sunil Lanba. nity to display the growth in the sent a P-8 for display at Aero in high regard.” there is nothing more rewarding “Our aircrew has enjoyed Indian/U.S. defense cooperation India, an aircraft both countries However, you did not need and energizing. However, I don't speaking a common language relationship, allowing the two operate. to be a part of the aerial demon- think any of them would turn with our friends and having nations to work together. “Displaying our aircraft in stration to appreciate the show’s down this opportunity in the the opportunity to showcase Th e Pacifi c Air Forces F-16 the Aero India 2017 airshow signifi cance. future!” what we do, said Albus. “Air- Fighting Falcon demonstration reaffi rms our commitment with “Our attendance at the “Th is show has been extreme- shows are a critical component team, assigned to Misawa Air the Indian Armed Forces and is a Aero India air show has been a ly enjoyable and fulfi lling,” said for furthering partnerships Base, Japan, a U.S. Navy P-8 key opportunity to communicate life-changing event for many of Collins. “Th is was the fi rst visit through relationships. “We en- Poseidon aircraft , assigned to our level of interest in bilateral our Sailors as they step aboard to India for eight of the 11 of us. joyed speaking a common lan- Naval Air Station Jacksonville, cooperation” said U.S. Navy planes they have only read about, We were very impressed with guage with our friends and hav- Fla. deployed to Kadena Air Commander Mike Albus, the as they experience the hospitality the hospitality and gracious ing the opportunity to showcase base, and a U.S. Air Force Executive Offi cer for Fixed Wing of the Indian people, and as they eff orts of our Indian hosts.” what we do.”
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 MARCH 3, 2017 SAMURAI GATE 3 909th Aircraft Maintenance Unit conducts power run By Senior Airman Omari Bernard 18th Wing Public Affairs 2/26/2017 — Th e KC-135R Stratotankers stationed on Kadena Air Base have a critical role in the U.S. Air Force’s mis- sion in the Pacifi c. It provides global reach and air refueling support to Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and allied nation aircraft in the Pacifi c Th eater. ^Airman 1st Class Bradley Romaker, 909th Aircraft With such a large role, the KC- Maintenance Unit aerospace propulsion journeyman, plugs 135 needs constant maintenance a communications line into a KC-135R Stratotanker during to ensure its mission ready; that’s maintenance. where the 909th Aircraft Mainte- nance Unit comes into play. Th e 909th AMU’s maintainers work (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) ^Staff Sgt. Nicholas Jaeger to ensure Kadena’s KC-135R and Airman 1st Class Bradley fl eet is mission ready. Romaker, 909th AMU aerospace Whether it’s completing propulsion technicians, prepare engine replacements, testing di- to conduct an engine power run agnostics, or conducting engine onboard a KC-135R Stratotanker Feb. 16, at Kadena Air Base. power runs, the 909th AMU ensures Kadena’s Stratotankers Airman 1st Class Weston are ready to lend support at a ^ moment’s notice and ensure the Rutherford, 909th AMU aerospace propulsion apprentice, watches for fl eet is mission ready. discrepancies outside a KC-135R ^Staff Sgt. Nicholas Jaeger, 909th Aircraft Maintenance Unit As an aerospace propulsion Stratotanker during an engine power aerospace propulsion craftsman, documents maintenance on journeyman for the 909th run Feb. 16. the KC-135R Stratotanker. AMU, Airman 1st Class Bradley Romaker’s job is to maintain en- exhausts for the jet engines; it’s a 909th Aircraft Maintenance Unit or issues on the ground to assess moment’s notice. gines, ensuring safety of fl ight. lengthy process that’s detailed in aerospace propulsion craft sman. and fi x the problem. “Any time there is an aircraft Romaker said when con- steps in our technical orders.” “Before the aircraft can be sent “It may not happen because fl ying you have to ensure that it ducting basic maintenance on Everyday maintenance for in for maintenance we make we are conducting these tests is safe,” Jaeger said. “Th e aircraft the KC-135R, like performing 909th AMU maintainers can sure that the aircraft has little to on the ground,” Jaeger said. “But we support frequently fl y out an engine power run, safety is vary from a fi ve minute basic leak no issues, so that the receiving we try our best to duplicate the people on aeromedical evacu- important. check to an hour long power run. shop has less work to do on the discrepancy on the ground to ation missions, so if we don’t “First and foremost all “A power run is conducted aircraft during the upgrade.” ensure the safety of our aircrews.” have an aircraft that’s safe for maintenance on the aircraft has to ensure that all four engines In order to fi x problems or is- With the safety of fl ight in people to fl y in, then there could to be conducted in a safe man- on the KC-135R are operating sues discovered during fl ight by mind, 909th AMU maintainers be potential deaths or injuries, ner,” Romaker explained. “You without issues at high capacities,” aircrew, maintainers attempt to work night and day to ensure so it’s really important that the basically inspect the inlets and said Staff Sgt. Nicholas Jaeger, recreate the same discrepancies that the KC-135R is ready at a job is done safely and properly.” SAMURAI GATE MARCH 3, 2017 Japan,4 Australia Airmen improve aeromedical evacuation integration with 18th AES
By Senior Airman warning. With a heightened level John Linzmeier of risk throughout the region, 18th Wing Public Affairs it is critically important for 2/24/2017 - ANDERSEN AIR militaries to have the means to BASE, Guam — Airmen from provide aeromedical evacuation the 18th Aeromedical Evacua- capabilities for those in need, to tion Squadron conducted trilat- include neighboring countries. eral training with members of While each participating air the Royal Australian Air Force force is solely capable of pro- and Japan Air Self-Defense viding humanitarian assistance Force Feb. 21, at Andersen Air with their own resources, AE Base, Guam, as part of annual units can help more people exercise Cope North. when they are working together. Th e training was held to ele- With this in mind, the training vate the aeromedical evacuation pushed airmen to adapt and mission through combining each become more fl exible while nation’s equipment, personnel working with their counterparts and aircraft . Each day entailed a and their foreign platforms. diff erent medical scenario requir- As a means for the airmen to ing the transportation of simulat- observe and familiarize them- (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman John Linzmeier) ed patients to higher-medical care selves with each other’s equip- ^Tech. Sgt. Detrick Hysaw, 18th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron AE technician, confi gures a Japan Air Self-Defense Force C-130 Hercules through fi xed-wing movement. ment and procedures, the air- with Royal Australian Air Force Airmen for patient transport Feb. 21, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Capt. Warren Carter, 18th men practiced their life-saving AES fl ight evaluator from skills aboard a separate C-130 Whereas the larger fuselage Exercise Cope North is a multinational exercises such Kadena Air Base, said this year’s aircraft each day – one belong- of a C-130 has more space for long-standing exercise designed as Cope North, allied units are iteration of Cope North resulted ing to each nation. teams to separately load specifi c to enhance multilateral air op- able to learn from each other, in signifi cant improvements Working side-by-side on medical systems, many medical erations between the partnered share assets and potentially toward understanding how each each other’s aircraft demonstrat- capabilities came pre-built into militaries, bringing together save more lives. air force operates and how their ed the AE airmen’s potential to the Huron, enabling teams to more than 2,700 U.S. Airmen, “It was a great exercise,” training has taken trilateral serve together in the event of a reduce prep time and quickly Sailors and Marines who are said Carter. “Not only did integration to a new level within real-world crisis. load patients. training alongside approximate- we have the capability to do the aeromedical evacuation Th e partnered airmen also “We’re showing everyone our ly 600 combined JASDF and our interoperability training, community. practiced transporting patients aircraft so they can see how we RAAF participants. but we also built some good Populations throughout the on a U.S. Air Force C-12 Huron, operate inside it and give them Th e 18th AES maintains a friendships and partnerships. Indo-Asia Pacifi c are susceptible a smaller airframe with a more an idea if they would like to use forward presence and supports Th is is just the start of greater to a number of natural disasters, versatile set of AE capabilities, that type of aircraft in the future,” the largest area of operation of things to happen; not only in such as earthquakes, tsunamis said Staff Sgt. Robert Grimes, said Grimes. “Th ey were very medical contingencies in the the exercise but actually in and typhoons, which can aff ect 18th AES mission clinical coor- open to learning about it and Pacifi c, reaching from the Horn real-world missions in the very the masses with very little dinator and AE technician. were asking a lot of questions.” of Africa to Alaska. Th rough near future.” MARCH 3, 2017 SAMURAI GATE 5 Royal Thai Air Force Recovery Operations medical exchange 17-2 Laos
(U.S. Air Force photos by Capt. Jessica Tait) ^Lt. Col. Chris Walker, 353rd Special Operations Group group surgeon, demonstrates application of a traction splint during a medical exchange with counterparts (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Matthew J. Bruch) from the Royal Thai Air Force Wing 1 Hospital, Staff Sgt. Sarabrian Jackson, a recovery non-commissioned offi cer temporarily assigned to the Defense Feb. 22 at Korat Air Base, Thailand. Cobra POW/MIA Accounting Agency, rides to a location in Boualapha District, Laos to search for the remains of a Gold 2017 provided an opportunity for both U.S. service member still considered missing-in-action from the Vietnam War, Jan 27. Jackson, an aircraft the United States and partner nation to maintainer stationed at Kadena Air Base is temporarily deployed with DPAA as part of their augment advance interoperability and partner capacity. program. The mission of DPAA is to provide the fullest possible accounting for our missing personnel to their families and the nation.
Capt. Zachary Dreaden, 353rd Special Operations ^ Support Squadron fl ight surgeon, instructs the step-by-step technique to perform a surgical airway during a medical exchange with counterparts from the Royal Thai Air Force Wing 1 Hospital, Feb. 22 at Korat Air Base, Thailand. The medical activities conducted during Cobra Gold 2017 supported the needs and humanitarian interests of civilian populations across the region. 6 SAMURAI GATE MARCH 3, 2017 67th aMU arms F-15s in Guam for Cope North 17
By Senior Airman together in one centralized loca- John Linzmeier tion presents a broader range of 18th Wing Public Affairs airframes, making an exceptional 2/27/2017 - ANDERSEN AIR opportunity for weapons Airmen BASE, Guam — Each duty day of to learn from one another. exercise Cope North begins with “It’s pretty exciting when we get the calming glow of a golden sun- the opportunity to work with other rise, as dozens of Airmen line up Air Force units and other nations side-by-side across the Andersen because we get to see each other’s Air Force Base fl ightline to sweep systems,” said Staff Sgt. Michael their workspace of debris, clear- Mcoy, 67th AMU weapons team ing space for F-15 Eagles to taxi. load chief. “We don’t necessarily Among the line of maintain- work on each other’s jets but we get ers is an indispensable team to compare the diff erent ways we of weapons technicians from operate. So when we notice others the 67th Aircraft Maintenance doing something more safely or Unit, whose livelihood literally quickly, we can adapt ourselves to Airmen from the 67th Aircraft revolves around airpower. it and improve our methods; and Maintenance Squadron conduct It’s our responsibility to make that works both ways as well.” a foreign object debris walk sure the aircraft is armed with When engines start across the Feb, 23 on the fl ightline of weapons and bombs so that our fl ightline, weapons Airmen are Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. pilots have the means to use sure to follow. Teams of three (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman John Linzmeier) them,” said Staff Sgt. James Smith, approach each roaring aircraft , Squadron are designed to dom- that Airmen have added a promote stability throughout the 67th AMU weapons team load inspecting the weaponry that inate the skies through air-to-air competitive spin to their craft at Indo-Asia Pacifi c. chief. “It’s really a thrill, knowing was confi gured and loaded by combat, with the ability to escort their home station. Members of While Cope North 17 is com- that we are a major key toward the night-shift crew. and defend allied aircraft or clear the 67th hold quarterly weapons ing to a close this week, service making missions happen.” Th e day-shift makes sure the a path for long-ranged bombers, load competitions with their members are ending the exercise Weapons Airmen fl ew from munitions are safely installed such as the participating B-1B neighbor unit, the 44th AMU, to with ‘Weapons Fest,’ an annual Kadena Air Base, to support 15 and arms them one-by-one be- Lancers from the 9th Expedi- see who can safely load their jets gathering between units in the Eagles from the 67th Fighter fore each jet is marshaled out for tionary Bomb Squadron. in the shortest amount of time. weapons community. Squadron during the annual exer- a training mission with JASDF Regardless if weaponry is live Together, the two squadrons “Weapons Fest is always a good cise. Th is year’s iteration of Cope and RAAF aircraft . or inert, it’s always treated with im- are responsible for maintaining time,” said Smith. “It’s pretty much North includes a total of 22 fl ying Training sorties between forces mense care, said Airman 1st Class 54 Eagles. Th eir hosting island, the best networking opportunity units comprised of members from are held to increase interoperabili- Victoria Barsness, 67th AMU Okinawa, is considered to be the out there within our career fi eld. the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, ty in simulated combat scenarios, weapons team load member. Keystone of the Pacifi c for its We’re just lucky to be able to get to- Royal Australian Air Force, U.S. with a concentration of air tactics, Th e skill levels and compe- strategic location and capabili- gether like this on an ongoing basis Navy, Air force and Marine Corps. techniques and procedures. tencies of weapons load teams ties to deter threats and support so that we can learn from each Having three militaries Eagles from the 67th Fighter can vary considerably; so much allies in a combined eff ort to other and combine our airpower.” MARCH 3, 2017 SAMURAI GATE 7
(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman John Linzmeier) ^Airman 1st Class Luke Story, 909th Air Refueling Squadron boom operator, prepares to conduct aerial refueling while being observed by Japan Air Self-Defense Force 1st Lt. Yoshifumu Takase March 1, off the coast of Guam.
(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Keith James) ^An E-3 Sentry assigned to the 961st Airborne Air Control Squadron approaches the boom pod of a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 909th Aerial Refueling Squadron to receive fuel during Cope North 2017, Feb. 22. The exercise includes 22 total fl ying units and more than 2,700 personnel from three countries and continues the growth of strong, interoperable relationships within the Indo-Asia-Pacifi c region through integration of airborne and land-based command and control assets.
Members from the U.S. Air ^ Force, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy, Royal Australian Air Force, and Japan Air Self-Defense Force discuss tactics and mission (Photo by Amy Forsythe) ^ planning during an operations Royal Australian Air Force Leading Aircraftman Daniel McCormack and his dog brief at Cope North 2017, Feb. 24. “Outlaw” conclude a short demonstration in detecting human scent during COPE NORTH 17 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Feb. 24.
An F-15 Eagle assigned to the 67th Fighter Squadron, Kadena Air Base, taxis during Exercise Cope North 2017 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Feb. 16.
(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Keith James) (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Richard P. Ebensberger) 8 SAMURAI GATE MARCH 3, 2017 NMCB 5 overcomes Jungle Endurance Course By Petty Offi cer 2nd Class Adam Henderson Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 5 3/1/2017 — Seabees with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 5 took part in a jungle warfare training evolution at the Jungle Warfare Training Center on Okinawa Feb. 13-23. Sixteen Seabees took to the Northern Training Area at the re- mote JWTC on Camp Gonsalves ^Construction Mechanic Constructionman Matt Adams attached to to participate alongside Marines NMCB 5 traverses a mud fi lled pit while participating in the endurance course. in the Basic Skills Course. Th e rigorous 10-day course teaches the skills necessary to sustain combat operations in a jungle environment. JWTC is a training camp run exclusively by Marine instruc-
tors to build confi dence by in- (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Adam Henderson)
troducing tough, team-building ^Gunners Mate 2nd Class Zohair Haddad ^ exercises to every service mem- attached to NMCB 5 climbs a cargo net obstacle Seabee’s attached to NMCB 5 transitions ber who participates. For this which is one of the 31 obstacles that make up the from a crawl to a pull while crossing a across endurance course. a wire obstacle as part of one of the 31 particular course, the instructors obstacles that make up the endurance course. pushed Seabees through a 3.4- mile jungle endurance course. work with the Marines in this Th e course focused on the to assess the strengths and weak- Assistance and Disaster Relief “Th is was an excellent train- adventure.” practical application of skills nesses of their Sailors and Ma- operations. Th ey provide gener- ing opportunity for the Seabees Th e JWTC occupies 17,500 such as fi rst aid, communica- rines. Ultimately, it will provide a al engineering and civil support of NMCB 5.” Said Construction acres of jungle in the NTA. Th e tions, knot tying, rappelling, good indication of how well they to Navy, Marine Corps and joint Electrician 1st Class Yancey hilly and rugged terrain, topped land navigation, and patrolling. will function under stress and operational forces. Homeported Barnes. “Since the war died with single and double canopy “Th e endurance course is an physical exhaustion.” out of Port Hueneme, Calif., down we have been focused on forest has been challenging excellent team building exercise,” NMCB 5 is the forward de- NMCB 5 has 14 detached sites construction and it feels good Marines and Sailors in the art said Gunnery Sgt. Rocky Bos- ployed, Western Pacifi c NMCB, deployed throughout the Unit- to get back into this mind set of jungle warfare for more than man 2nd Battalion 5th Marine ready to support Major Combat ed States and Western Pacifi c of war fi ghting capabilities and 50 years. regiment. “It allows commanders Operations, Humanitarian area of operations. MARCH 3, 2017 SAMURAI GATE 9 10 SAMURAI GATE MARCH 3, 2017
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Kadena and Camp Foster information on an AF Form 102 and briefl y families with peace of mind to know that new initiative called ‘IMR Green Day’. All emergency numbers outline the facts and relevant information they will have the dental care they need active duty personnel will receive priority Kadena Fire Emergency Services reminds related to the issue or complaint. List when it’s needed. Some of the great at immunizations 7:30 - 11:30 a.m. and everyone to program their cell phones the allegations of wrongdoing briefl y, in benefi ts available to military spouses and 12:45 - 4:00 p.m., and lab during their with the emergency numbers. To report general terms and provide supporting children under the TDP Include: normal hours of operation. Additionally, an emergency on Kadena via cell, dial narrative detail and documents later, when -Two cleanings and two exams per year deployment related health assessments 098-934-5911, and from an offi ce phone, interviewed by an IG person. Allegations at no cost when a network dentist is will have walk-in hours from 7:30 a.m. dial 911. For Camp Foster via cell, dial should be written as bullets and should seen to 4:00 p.m. at Public Health. IMR Green 098-911-1911, or from an offi ce phone, answer who committed the violation; -Orthodontic coverage for children up to Day will be held the third Friday of every dial 911. what violation was committed; what the age of 21 (or 23 if a full time student) month. law, regulation, procedures, or policy with a 50% cost share and a $1,750 How to Receive Emergency wasviolated; when did the violation occur. Lifetime Maximum Benefi t per enrollee WIC Overseas Program Enrollment Notifications in English on Cell Help is available: Call your Kadena IG -$1,300 Dental Program Annual Maximum and Eligiblity Phone offi ce at 634-7622 for Mr. Mays or 634-1109 per enrollee per plan year The Women, Infants, and Children Cell phones across Okinawa currently for Mr. Lovingood, or leave a message on -$1,200 Accidental Annual Maximum per Overseas is a supplemental nutrition receive emergency text notifi cations in the Kadena Fraud Waste & Abuse (FWA) enrollee per plan year program designed for pregnant, Japanese from mobile phone service Hotline at 634-0404. Enrollment in the TDP is quick and easy postpartum, and breastfeeding women, providers. To receive emergency notifi - and there are four easy ways to enroll: infants and children up to the age of 5. cations by e-mail in English, contact the Med Group anonymous feedback 1. Online: Visit Caution-http://www.tricare. As a WIC Overseas participant, you can Readiness & Emergency Management The 18th Medical Group has just mil/bwe receive nutrition education in the form of Flight at 634-4404. implemented the Mystery Patient program 2. Phone: Call 1-855-638-8371 (CONUS), individual counseling and group classes, which allows patients to anonymously 1-855-638-8372 (OCONUS), or 1-855- breastfeeding support, supplemental New AtHoc Mass Notification grade our facilities and our patient/staff 638-8373 (TDD/TTY) foods such as milk, juice, cheese, cereal, system interactions in several different areas of 3. Fax: Send a completed Enrollment/ eggs, and fresh fruits and vegetables, and The 18th Civil Engineer Group has just performance. To participate, simply obtain Change Authorization document www. referrals to other health care agencies. launched a new AtHoc Mass Notifi cation a Mystery Patient Questionnaire from the tricare.mil/tdp to 1-855-763-1337 For more information, check fi nancial/ system for the military family housing Customer Service desk located at the main 4. Mail: Send a completed Enrollment/ residential eligibility, visit or call WIC residents of Okinawa. The current entrance of the MDG; the questionnaire Change Authorization document to the Overseas. All of WIC can be reached at system for notifying residents of issues can either be fi lled out during or after your following address: MetLife TRICARE 645-WICO (9426) or from a cell phone at or upcoming maintenance relied on appointment and once it is complete, it Dental Program Enrollment and Billing 098-970-9426 (Options 1- Camp Foster; spending hundreds of man hours going can be placed into any of the ICE comment Services P.O. Box 14185 Lexington, KY 2- Kadena Air Base; 3- Camp Kinser; 4- door-to-door posting notices, or creating boxes located within the facility. For more 40512 Camp Courtney) posts on social media such as Kadena’s information, contact Master Sgt. Restie Kadena Air Base (Bldg. 428) Facebook page, Mangiliman at 630-4992 or Ms. Sherry Air Force IBM Forms Migration Camp Foster (Bldg. 5674) Vargas at 630-4785 or email at 18MDG. Removal of IBM Form Viewer software is Camp Courtney (Bldg. 4408) How to file a complaint with IG [email protected]. fast approaching (March 2017). Owners Camp Kinser (Bldg. 107 Rm. 121) If you believe you are unable to resolve of offi cial records are responsible for your complaint through supervisory TRICARE Dental Program converting fi lled-in IBM forms in fi ling Risner Fitness Complex A/C Outage channels, you may seek IG assistance Enrollment systems to PDF to ensure future viewing. The Risner Fitness Center is scheduled to determine if the complaint should be Military service members are encouraged Open the form now and save/print as PDF to have an A/C system renovation from fi led with the IG. You can fi le a complaint to enroll their family members in the to ensure accessibility. Jan. 23 to May 1 throughout the facility. if you reasonably believe inappropriate TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) and to However, we are taking several measures conduct has occurred or a violation of law, take advantage of MetLife TDP benefi ts IMR Green Day to ensure minimal inconvenience to policy, procedures, or regulation has been that they are entitled to receive. MetLife’s In order to improve access to care for IMR our customers and will continue to committed. Complete the personnel data TDP dental coverage will provide military requirements, Public Health is starting a Continued on PAGE 11 MARCH 3, 2017 SAMURAI GATE 11 provide updates as they occur. For more experienced four motorcycle mishaps Kadena Annual Bataan Memorial assistance the last Sunday of every month information, contact Risner Fitness Center resulting in fatalities. The desired effect Death March with help to maintain Tomari International at 634-5128/5129. of this training is to create mentorship The Kadena Top 3 organization will be Cemetery grounds. This small cemetery, opportunities, enhance/refi ne motorcycle hosting the annual Bataan Memorial Death established for Commodore Perry in 1853 Blended Retirement System Opt-In rider skills/capabilities, and ultimately March on April 8 starting at 6:00 a.m. The holds many foreign individuals, but most Eligibility Notifications prevent mishaps. For more information, event will start at Kadena’s Keystone are Americans who were killed or served in On Feb. 10, 2017, the Air Force Personnel contact at the 18th Wing Occupational Theater for a remembrance followed WWII Battle of Okinawa, Korean War and Center began notifying Regular Air Force Safety Offi ce at 634-7233. by March, walk, or jog along Kadena’s Vietnam Wars. Last Sunday of every month: (RegAF) offi cer and enlisted Airmen of their fl ightline perimeter road. Individuals and March 26, from 9 - 11:30 a.m. / Apr. 30, eligibility to opt in to the new retirement plan Okinawa City and Chatan Town teams are encouraged to participate. For from 9 - 11:30 a.m. For more information, known as the Blended Retirement System Welfare Association Drive more information, contact Senier Master. contact Senior Airman Charlie Schleuger (BRS) starting Jan. 1, 2018. Airmen with Donate to local families in our local Sgt. Fabrienne Burnett at 634-9407 or at 634-7271 or email at charlie.schleuger@ less than 12 years of service as of Dec. 31, community. Items needed; non-perishable Master Sgt. Danny Lopez at 634-3194. us.af.mil. 2017 based on their pay date will be eligible foods (rice, pasta, canned goods), to switch to the BRS upon implementation toiletries, detergent and household items. Be Brave - One Day Women's Volunteers for Sentry Century 100K Jan. 1, 2018. All Airmen (offi cer and Drop off boxes have been placed at the Conference Bike Race enlisted) receiving this notifi cation must CPTS, Bidg 10, Command Post, USO, The Kadena Chapel Protestant Women of The Risner Fitness Center is hosting the click on the Blended Retirement System Kadena shoppette and Post Offi ce for the Chapel will be hosting “Be Brave” a second annual Sentry Century 100K Bike link to review the BRS notifi cation data your convenience. For more information, one day women’s conference, March 14 Race March 11 at 7:30 a.m. Need volunteers and complete the acknowledgement. contact Staff Sgt. Erica Jones at 634-1288. at the Kadena Chapel 3 from 9:30 - 11:30 for set-up, tear down, road guards, or Acknowledgement is mandatory. For more a.m. and 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Dr. Brenda Pace provide water at the water stations. For information, please contact Tech. Sgt. Learn Japanese & Chinese will be a guest speaker for this event. For more information, contact Senior Airman Agnes Pena, Military Personnel Section, Japanese & Chinese Classes for any level. more information, contact Kadena Chapel Skiilar Hopson or Senior Airman Sarah 632-4967. Additional information for Air OHJ Skills 090-9788-2615 http://ohjskills. at 634-4888. Lampson at 634-5128/5129 or email skiilar. Force personnel receiving the notifi cation, com [email protected] / [email protected]. can be found on the MPS BRS sharepoint Introduction to Buddhism - Women’s mil. site. UPCOMING EVENTS Seminar 18th Civil Engineer Squadron will be The Kokusai Chapter Women’s Division 18th MUNS to Conduct 100-Percent minimally manned will sponsor a 90-minute seminar that will Munitions Inventory The 18th Civil Engineer Squadron will be introduces attendees to the basic concepts The 18th Munitions Squadron is conducting minimally manned, March 3 from 11 a.m. and practices of Nichiren Daishonin’s a 100-percent munitions inventory from to 4:30 p.m. for an annual squadron event. Buddhism for English-speaking women March 13 to 17. Emergency issues Emergency work order services will be and girls. For more information, check out submitted in writing and approved by the available during this time by calling 634- our Facebook page “SGI Okinawa Kokusai MXG commander (or equivalent) will be the 2424. The 18th CES work order services Chapter Women’s Division” or www.sgi. only transactions processed during this will resume normal operations starting the org. time frame. For more information, contact next duty day. Explosive ordnance disposal Master Sgt. Melissa Sims at 632-5309 or and fi re emergency services response VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES email [email protected]. capability will be unaffected during this Kadena High School Spanish time. For more information, please call CE program seeking volunteers Annual/Pre-Season Motorcycle Customer Service at 634-2424. Kadena High School’s Spanish program Safety Briefing is looking for fl uent Spanish-speaking The Kadena Air Base Annual/Pre-Season 75 Years of Helping Airmen - A volunteers to interact with their Spanish Motorcycle Safety briefi ng, hosted by the Worldwide Celebration students. Volunteers are needed during recently established Kadena Chapter of the The Headquarter Air Force Aid Society the school day from 7:20-2:15 on the Green Knights Military Motorcycle Club, will (AFAS) 75th Worldwide Celebration Event following days: April 12 and May 12. If you be held March 9 at 1 p.m. at the Keystone will be held, March 10 at the Schilling are interested in volunteering or want more Theater. This briefi ng is mandatory for all Community Center. Air Force Bases information, please contact Elizabeth El Air Force Active Duty motorcycle riders across the globe, along with HQ AFAS, will Ansari at [email protected]. assigned to the 18th Wing. Civilians, commemorate this incredible milestone. edu. dependents, tenant organizations and *Light Refreshments and cake provided* mission partners are encouraged to attend. For more information, contact Amy Ali at American Legion seeking volunteers Since Fiscal Year 2011, the 18th Wing has 634-3366. The local American Legion need of
Full of ‘the world’s best coral’, many divers yearn for the Okinawan ocean. Coral creates a magical world of vivid colors within the ocean, and it is said that it can only exist where there is a rich, well-maintained and balanced eco- system. Of course, the Okinawan ocean is a perfect example of this, and its waters are full of coral that is sought after by divers from all around the world. The islands of Okinawa are famous for their coral reefs, where roughly 200 types of coral can be found out of the approximately 800 types that have been verified. preventing global warming. Along with sea anemone and jellyfish, coral is Unfortunately, however, coral in Okinawa is also known to lay its eggs on the night of a full decreasing and chlorosis has become a big moon. problem. However, did you know that even though coral is Coral is a very delicate organism that can die if not a plant, it still photosynthesizes? the water temperature is even slightly elevated, and it is also difficult for it to grow in waters By absorbing carbon dioxide, it produces where there is a lot of ultraviolet light. oxygen at a rate that is 6-16 times the amount produced by trees on land. In the end, it is man who is having the greatest effect on coral, and the damage to Okinawa’s Using more than 10% of the entire planet’s beautiful oceans might just be a reflection of carbon dioxide, coral plays a major role in our future. 12 SAMURAI GATE MARCH 3, 2017 Members of the 353rd Special Operations Group help children in the Phillipines
^Tech Sgt. Chris Anderson, an Airman assigned to the 353rd SOG at Kadena Air Base holds 2 orphan children at the Kings Garden Orphanage in the Philippines.
Senior Airman^ Zach Nadeau, an Airman assigned to the 353rd SOG at Kadena Air Base poses with a child at the childs (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Taylor Mohr) hope outreach ^Capt. Lawrence Melnicoff, a pilot assigned to the 353rd Special Operations Group at Kadena Air Base center. shares food with a child at the kings garden orphanage during a community outreach project, Feb 19. By Petty Offi cer 2nd Class computers for communities around that the military paid a fair amount and Taylor Mohr Okinawa aft er arriving to his command, getting rid of could be purchased for American Forces Network Pacifi c the 353rd Special Operations Group. much less and refurbished for projects 2/23/2017 - MANILLA, PHILLIPINES Th e group took notice of his eff orts and like these. — 20 computers, plus school supplies asked him to expand. “You buy one with a couple issues, a and toys were brought from Okinawa “Usually these projects I will use couple years old and you fi x it up nice, to be delivered to the Kings Garden equipment I’ve refurbished myself. Th e and we put thousands of books and edu- orphanage and the Child Hope outreach ones we donated here are toughbooks, cational soft ware. For what we spend we center in Manilla. Th e computers, which so they are pretty sturdy machines that will be helping more than two thousand were slated to be recycled, were seen by we use in the service. So I thought they kids a year.” Said Melnicoff . Airforce Capt. Lawrence Melnicoff as an would do well in an environment like Th e computers will give the children the opportunity to give back to communi- this.” Said Melnicoff . opportunity to have access to technology ties in need. Melnicoff started building He said, he noticed using equipment that they have never seen or used before.