From clockwise: Airmen gather to prepare a F-15C Eagle for takeoff Dec. 5, Yoon walk to a static F-22 Raptor, Dec. 7. Yoon visited during the routine (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Franklin R. Ramos) / A maintenance at Gwangju Air Base, Republic of Korea during Exercise Vigilant Ace-18. (U.S. exercise Vigilant Ace. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jessica Airman and an F-15C Eagle pilot have a discussion prior to takeoff Dec. 5, at Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kristen A. Heller) / Four F-15s from H. Smith) / Staff Sgt. Andrea Miles, 18th Aerospace Medicine Squadron Gwangju Air Base, during Exercise Vigilant Ace-18. (U.S. Air Force photo Kadena Air Base, fl y over Gwangju Air Base, Dec. 1. (U.S Air Force photo technician, Kadena Air Base, assists a patient with fastening a seat belt on by Airman 1st Class Kristen A. Heller) / An F-15 from Kadena Air Base, by Senior Airmnan Jessica H. Smith) / 18th Wing Commander from Kadena a C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft member, assigned to Yokota Air Base, Japan lands at Gwangju Air Base, Dec. 1. (U.S Air Force photo by Senior Airmnan Air Base, Brig. Gen. Case Cunningham and Mayor of Gwangju, Jang Hyun during exercise Vigilant Ace 18 at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Dec. 6. Jessica H. Smith)

By Senior Airman challenges of creating a fully functional home stations as well as an opportunity and build the alliance which ultimately Jessica Smith collocated operating base, the exercise to get to know our ROKAF counterpart’s is the key to deterrence and keeping the 18th Wing Public Affairs still went off without a hitch. capabilities. peace on the peninsula,” explained Brig. 12/10/2017 - GWANGJU AIR BASE, “We have learned a lot of the limitations “In order for us to really be able to Gen. Case Cunningham, commander, South Korea — Over the last week, U.S. that are here currently and how to work project the force that we need, we really 18th Wing, Kadena Air Base. “Th at op- and Republic of Korean Forces across around them, said Maj. Joshua Ramirez, have to come together and learn how to portunity is incredibly important for us.” South Korea participated in an annual director of inspections, 18th Wing, work together and understand what each Maximizing interoperability and bilateral exercise, Vigilant Ace-18. Th e Kadena Air Base. “Obviously we don’t base brings to the fi ght,” Ramirez said. “It partnership, was tested fi rst-hand when a exercise focuses on interoperability with- have all of the comforts of home here– gets them to see how we do things and it snowstorm resulted in aircraft unexpect- in the alliance between the United States that includes equipment and personnel, gets us to see how they would do things edly landing at Gwangju Air Base. Air Force and ROK Air Force. we found very creative ways to get around and fi nd a common ground to make it a “For this skeleton crew that we have– Although this is an annual exercise, that stuff and still get jets in the air.” unifi ed front.” compared to what we have back home– two major diff erences this year were the With U.S. military units from all over While the exercise has a heavy empha- to be able to catch all those personnel participation of fi ft h-generation aircraft coming together as one team, including sis on air power and deterrence, it’s also would have been impossible,” Ramirez and the standing up of Gwangju Air Alaska, Japan and the Republic of Korea, about building relationships. said. “Th e ROKAF stepped up like cham- Base. Despite the fi ft h-generation fi ght- Vigilant Ace-18 allows the USAF to “Specifi cally with our ROKAF part- pions and they were out there catching ers being new to the ROKAF, and the employ the agility of airpower away from ners, it allows us to continue to strengthen READ VIGILANT ACE-18 PAGE 2 2 SAMURAI GATE DECEMBER 15, 2017 Everyday Heroes

By Brett Manis II 18th Wing History Offi ce/SOJTF-OIR Historian

ur society joined for honor and oft en has a a patriotic duty. Some Opreoccupation joined for education. of raising up people Others joined because to mythical levels. We they had no other equate various groups prospects and the of people with elevated military off ered three morals, increased meals and a paycheck. intelligence and a naïve Some even joined belief that those people because a judge gave are infallible from bad them the option of decisions. prison or service, but Look no further than they all serve. Th ey are the public condemnation not free from errors in of your favorite actor or judgement or terrible athlete when a personal decisions. Th ose on struggle or a criminal Okinawa have seen off ense is made public. that all too well. Th ey Over the last generation, are inherently fallible Americans have put our because they are merely service members into human. that category. Th ey are Th at, however, is their labeled as the “best of strength. Th e military is America,” millions of a collection of “regular people have some form people” who pull together of “support our troops” (Courtesy photo) to form something paraphernalia and we are treated to television shows and so much more. greater. Th ey work toward a common purpose with a and movies dedicated to military virtues. Th ey are single and they are married. Some have shared bond born of service, sacrifi ce and a decision to Our society has tried to turn every man or babies, some have “fur babies” and others have join something bigger than themselves. woman who joins a branch of the Armed Forces as neither. Our service members, the men and women Whether they are Special Forces on the front lines, superheroes who magically only make the perfect, of every military branch, represent our entire country transportation specialists, maintainers, pilots or and perfectly courageous, decisions required of them. in all its glory. submariners, they are working to create a world better Our society has arguments about whether the actions It’s easy to forget the United States is rare among than they found it. Some will see combat their entire of some honor or off end our troops, oft en without the world as there is no ethnic group of “Americans.” careers and others will never be within hundreds of stopping to ask our troops what they think. Th ey have We have gained our strength through our diversity. miles of enemy soldiers, but they all build a military become a monolith to be used to further a cause, It’s not a mistake that America has grown stronger the that is the most powerful and eff ective fi ghting force whether political, charitable or business. Th e American more inclusive we have become. in the history of the world. people have turned well over a million men and women I have been given the opportunity to serve in a Our service members are not faceless. Th ey are not into a faceless group that is exploited for their service. deployed environment. I serve with Soldiers, Sailors, clones or carbon copies to fi ll a billet. Th ough their What those people are missing is the phenomenal Marines and Airmen. I serve with Special Forces uniforms suggest blending into one, their stories and nature of our individual service members. Th ey are members and conventional forces members. Together, the backgrounds have created unique individuals who not faceless, nor a monolith nor a bloc of people who we are working hard to enable the fi ght against terrorists put on those uniforms. believe one thing. Th ey are men and women, they are and extremists where they are, rather than at home. Th is holiday season, when people say they are every ethnicity and creed who live in America, they Working here has really made clear what eight thankful for our troops, please take the extra minute to are Republicans and Democrats, only out of uniform, years as an Air Force civilian already taught me: our recognize the men and women behind those uniforms. of course, they are Christians, Muslims, Jews, atheists men and women in uniform are regular people. Some Th ey are the reason we live in the land of the free.

VIGILANT ACE-18 FROM PAGE 1 planes, helping us make sure everybody called upon to hit the ground running,” come time – if needed – to work together, side them for a successful mission to be was safe on the ground so there were no said Chief Master Sgt. Michael Ditore, we’re not strangers,” Ditore said. “It gives pulled off . accidents or incidents with the aircraft .” command chief, 18th Wing. them both the confi dence and trust in us “I think we performed outstanding; Experiences like this re-emphasize Building bonds amongst the partici- to show what true professionals we are, we did great,” Ramirez said. “Bumps and the importance of continuously training pants can foster a sense of trust between that we’re here for them for the long run.” bruises along the way, but overall we with our counterparts. the diff erent units involved. Trust is equally important in the op- learned a lot, we overcame and we did “I believe there’s always something to “It’s always about relationships; we’re erational aspect of the exercise. With so what we were supposed to do. It was great learn – how to be good teammates and going to continue to develop and build many players involved, one has to be able to have everybody do their part and see partners – but also how to be prepared if those relationships so that when it does to count on the person working along what they can learn from this exercise.”

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 DECEMBER 15, 2017 SAMURAI GATE 3 CATM training helps qualify Airmen in weapons profi ciency or for duty requirements,” said “My favorite part of the train- Staff Sgt. Seanice Th omas, 18th ing was shooting on burst mode,” Security Forces Squadron com- Staff Sgt. Tess Sunderlin, 353rd bat arms range safety offi cer. Special Operations Support “You have to have a need to Squadron aircrew fl ight equip- come through the training, it’s ment said. “You have to really not open to the public.” focus to hit the target, and the Range qualifi cation testing adrenaline rush is really cool.” consists of multiple magazines Sunderlin also had words of with diff erent numbers of bullets encouragement for anyone who loaded for diff erent scenarios is scheduled to test. and fi ring positions. Th is format “Th e line instructors are helps simulate random situa- really helpful, they know what tions that Airmen may encoun- they’re doing, and I trust them,” ter on the job or while deployed. Sunderlin said. Th e qualifi cation portion For Airmen who are still not Staff Sgt. David Morrow, 18 Force Support Squadron takes anywhere from three to convinced why the training is im- mail clerk, fi res at the target during a combat arms four hours. Th is is the most portant, or maybe aren’t taking qualifi cation course Dec. 6, at Kadena Air Base. crucial portion to determine the day as serious as they’d like, (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Greg Erwin) profi ciency of the Airmen. Sunderlin also had this to say. By Airman 1st Class a beat and the only thing one their weapon. According to Staff Sgt. Sebas- “Take the training seriously, Greg Erwin can hear is the ringing in their Once the initial classroom tian Landivar, 18th SFS combat because you never know when 18th Wing Public Affairs ears from the pulled triggers. portion is completed, the stu- arms range safety offi cer, the you’re going to have to forward 12/7/2017 — Training for the Welcome to combat arms quali- dents head to lunch, and return stress of making sure your eff ort deploy with somebody and use right moment is paramount fi cation training. ready to start fi ring qualifi cations. is good enough to qualify can these skills,” Sunderlin said. to maintaining our position as Th e schedule for students Air Force personnel primar- weigh on the mind of many who “Pay attention, do your best, the world’s greatest Air Force. attending the course was ily qualify on the M4 carbine take the course. and don’t treat it as just a day off On this day, like any other in packed and started at 8:00 a.m. and the M9 pistol. However, “A lot of folks are kind of from work.” Okinawa, a distinct sound can Aft er arriving, the class meets the range here at Kadena can scared, afraid of weapons, or Th e skills taught in the class be heard aft er walking through their instructor for the day also support the M870 shotgun, don’t enjoy it,” Landivar said. are just another way that the 18th the door at Combat Arms. and proceeds to the armory to M240 and M249 machine guns, “If you come in with a positive SFS combat arms section is able “FIRE!” acquire their weapons. Training M107 sniper rifl e, as well as the attitude, you’re able to make this to help keep Team Kadena safe, Moments later, loud bangs began with two to three hours M203 grenade launcher. day a lot better.” and ultimately help the Air Force from rifl es ring out, sending of classroom instruction where “Th e course is necessary By the end of the day how- in producing the most capable, sound waves through the stu- students learned how to clear, for Airmen who are about to ever, the students really enjoyed ready, and highly skilled Airmen dent’s bodies, the heart skips load, unload, use and clean change stations, forward deploy, the experience. able to fl y, fi ght, and win. 4 SAMURAI GATE DECEMBER 15, 2017 KKadenaadena welcomeswelcomes newestnewest chiefschiefs

Chief master sergeants stand with selectees for the rank of chief master sergeant Dec. 6, at Kadena Air Base. The rank of chief master sergeant is the highest enlisted rank that can be held in the Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Quay Drawdy) By Senior Airman member that excitement and it was truly Quay Drawdy humbling to have been a part of it.” 18th Wing Public Affairs Th e excitement of joining the top of 12/7/2017 — When two buses fi lled the U.S. Air Force enlisted corps wasn’t with chief master sergeants and the vice lost on the selectees. Families, cowork- commander visit a unit, it is either a very ers, leaders and more joined together to good or a very bad thing. Fortunately congratulate the new chiefs on their pro- for the senior master sergeants they met, motion, which led to tears and heartfelt they brought positive news. thanks. A total of 11 Kadena senior master “Making chief feels unbelievable,” said sergeants were selected for promotion to Senior Master Sgt. Demetrius Jones, 18th chief master sergeant. All available chiefs Communications Squadron operations and Col. Richard Tanner, 18th Wing vice fl ight superintendent. “It’s very humbling commander, visited each of the selectees at and as much as you want to prepare their units to congratulate them Dec. 12. yourself, you can’t. I can’t forget the peo- “Touring the base and meeting all of ple that have helped get me where I am the new chiefs brought back memories,” throughout the years. For now, though, said Chief Master Sgt. Greg Butcher, I’m excited to continue doing my job and 18th Force Support Squadron military doing the best I can wherever the Air ^Senior Master Sgt. Demetrius Jones, 18th Communications Squadron operations fl ight superintendent (center), waits personnel fl ight superintendent. “I re- Force ends up needing me.” to have the rank of chief master sergeant ceremoniously “tacked on” Dec. 6, at Kadena Air Base. DECEMBER 15, 2017 SAMURAI GATE 5 Team Kadena conducts combined NEO and RPU exercise

By Senior Airman Over a period of two days Omari Bernard hundreds of Airmen, roleplay- 18th Wing Public Affairs ing as deployed forces and evac- 12/7/2017 — Airmen from the uees, were able to in-process to 18th Wing simulated accepting the base as deployed forces while personnel and evacuees through evacuees were taken care of and a base-wide combined deploy- simulated transported safely ment and evacuation exercise back to the U.S. By exercising Dec. 4 here. these reception operations at “Today we are exercising our the same time Team Kadena ability to operate two key com- tested their skill sets and iden- ponents to ensure our readiness tifi ed best practices for planning in the Pacifi c,” said Maj. Sean future contingency operations. Parker, 18th Logistics Readiness During the exercise Team Squadron director of opera- Kadena members in-processed tions. “We are looking at our to the base, as augmentees, Members of the 18th Wing Chapel ability to receive noncombatant through the reception process- Offi ce brief simulated evacuees evacuation operation (NEO) ing unit at the Schilling Com- about chapel services available evacuees from locations in the munity Center while Airmen, during the noncombatant evacuation operation portion of a routine Pacifi c other than Okinawa role playing as civilian evacuees, exercise Dec. 4, at Kadena Air Base. and we are also looking at our in processed at the reception ability to receive and support control center at the Risner (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) contingency operations here.” Fitness Center. In a real-world operation, “Processing through NEO Kadena Air Base becomes one was easy and awesome to of many hubs for forward de- follow,” said Senior Airman ployed Airmen and NEO evacu- Ashley White, 18th Civil Engi- ees from all over the Pacifi c Air neer Squadron NEO evacuee. Force’s area of responsibility. “Everything was smooth and I According to Parker, exer- felt I received the attention that cising Team Kadena’s ability to I needed. Th ey talked to me receive forces while simultane- like a dependent and were very ously taking care of evacuees comforting and welcoming, I (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Quay Drawdy) (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) can be diffi cult. couldn’t ask for any more than ^Airman Katherine Henning, 18th Force Support Squadron ^Master Sgt. April Pham, 18th Force Support Squadron lodging “Testing reception is chal- that.” fi tness specialist, (left) and Staff Sgt. Jelani Burrell, 18th FSS fi tness section chief, in-processes deployed Airmen to Kadena Air Base lenging, it involves a number of White said she feels comfort specialist, process Airmen through a non-combatant evacuation during a routine exercise Dec. 4, at Kadena Air Base. operation exercise line Dec. 5, at Kadena Air Base. diff erent processing centers and in knowing her husband will be bed down locations,” Parker ex- taken care of if he ever has to go to prepare for, and how easy the conduct exercises to maintain said. “If something were to plained. “Th ey are very diff erent through a NEO. process is,” she continued. “I readiness. happen in the region, that our processes and exercising them “I feel very confi dent in going think it’s benefi cial to practice “Regardless of what is hap- people are trained profi cient both at the same time stresses home and being able to explain these operations.” pening in the world we always and know how to integrate our ability to command and con- this to my husband about what U.S. Air Force installations need to be ready and this gets us everyone’s rolls to ensure our trol the events at the same time.” he needs to do, what he needs throughout the Pacifi c routinely closer to that goal line,” Parker eff ectiveness in the region.”

Snow in Okinawa? Yes, see it with your own eyes! Christmas Fantasy

At this time of year, all of Okinawa is fi lled can play. There is also an artistic display with Christmas and New Year’s events for of snow, lasers and fi reworks that is a the whole family! There is hardly a store or must-see. Advance tickets are available establishment that does not have traditional at Kadena ITT/MCCS Tours at ¥1,800 for holiday music playing. Aside from all the adults and high school students, ¥1,000 for holiday activities on your to-do-list, why children from 4 through junior high school. not add a fun and entertaining event that Prices at the gate will be ¥2,200 and ¥1,200 all members of your family can enjoy? The respectively. (Children 3 yrs Okinawa Zoo & Museum in Okinawa City, old and below enter for free) which is not far from Kadena Air Base, Parking is available at the celebrates its 22nd annual Christmas Okinawa Zoo & Museum, Fantasy event that will be held December Okinawa City Offi ce and the Meet 22 - 29 from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. each Koza Sports Park. There evening. The event is fi lled with lots of are shuttles available to Santa! holiday cheer such as sparkling lights, and from the venue. illuminated Christmas trees and decorations that are guaranteed to give you that fuzzy, nostalgic feeling as you celebrate the holiday season. Check out snow that will be falling from snow machines as well as a large snow slide and igloos where children Christmas Fantasy December 22 - 29 Event hours: 4:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. For more information, call event planning committee at 098-933-4190, or visit www.xmas-fantasy.com/ Okinawa Zoo & Museum 5-7-1 Goya, Okinawa City paid advertisement 6 SAMURAI GATE DECEMBER 15, 2017 UU.S..S. AArmyrmy mmembersembers tteacheach JGSDFJGSDF andand UU.S..S. AAirmenirmen ^U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Julius Dunsan, 1-1 Air Defense Artillery primary combatives instructor, demonstrates a submission hold during U.S. Army Level-1 Combatives Training Dec. 7, at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Army combatives are generally taught as a last-resort fi ghting technique AArmyrmy ccombativesombatives designed for close quarters combat.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members, U.S. Airmen and Soldiers complete a conditioning drill during U.S. Army Level-1 Combatives Training Dec. 7, at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. U.S. Army Level-1 Combatives Training ^Senior Airman Devan Wedemeyer, 18th Communications Squadron prepares service members for close-range combat. technician, performs upper body conditioning during U.S. Army Level-1 (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Omari Bernard) Combatives Training Dec. 7, at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. By Senior Airman combative course level one,” said U.S. fi nishing the fi ght,” Dunsan explained. knowledge on how to fi ght in a combat Omari Bernard Army Staff Sgt. Julius Dunsan 1-1 Air “Th is is a great training opportunity. If situation,” Shiraishi said. 18th Wing Public Affairs Defense Artillery primary combatives you fi nd yourself in close quarters com- U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Colby Da- 12/8/2017 — Loud yells and heavy thumps instructor. “Th is is a fi ve-day course bat, this training will let you know what vis, 18th Medical Support Squadron echoed through the McCutcheon Gym where students can gain basic knowledge to do to secure victory and your life.” pharmacy vault custodian, enjoyed the at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma on how to defeat their opponent in the According to JGSDF Sgt. Makoto combatives course. Dec. 7, as U.S. service members practiced open fi eld using hand-to-hand combat.” Shiraishi, 15th Anti-Aircraft Artillery “Today I’m helping out with the Army Level-1 Army combative techniques with According to Dunsan, the lessons Regiment combatives instructor, the basic combatives course as a translator and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. learned during the week can be used by JGSDF has its own set of combatives, but participant,” Davis said. “It’s great to work Th e bilateral hand-to-hand combat anyone to become a better combat fi ghter. focus less on ground maneuvers. out with our sister services and partner na- training included members of the Army, “It teaches important lessons like “Th is is a very good opportunity as tions and I’m grateful for the opportunity Air Force and JGSDF. engaging the enemy, closing the distance, instructors to teach what we’ve learned to learn a new set of skills that I don’t get to “Th is week we went over the basic getting the dominant body position and this week to our soldiers so we can gain see at my normal everyday job.” DECEMBER 15, 2017 SAMURAI GATE 7 Building bundles, checking them twice By Staff Sgt. David Owsianka 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs 12/7/2017 — Once a year islanders throughout the Com- monwealth of the Northern Marianas, Federated States of Micronesia, and Republic of Palau will see bundles parachute out the back of multiple planes to provide them with essential supplies that are necessary for their daily lives. Th e bundles in- clude items such as educational Master Sgt. Sim Edgar Malinao, Kadena Air Base, material, clothing and food, but 353rd Special Operations before delivery, there is a team Group aerial delivery of dedicated professionals mak- superintendent, places the ing sure they are built safely and top part of a bundle next to a ^Staff Sgt. Montana Warmack, 353rd Special Operations Group air transportation rigger from up to standard. cardboard box at Andersen Air Kadena Air Base, places water inside a practice bundle to be used for a Low-Cost Low-Altitude Airmen from Yokota’s 374th Force Base, Guam, Dec. 7. training drop at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Dec. 7. Logistics Readiness Squadron (U.S. Air Force photos by Staff Sgt. David Owsianka) Cardboard boxes combat mobility fl ight and John Marcum, 374th LRS CMF from being stationed at Ander- ^ sit in a warehouse the 353rd Special Operations rigger. “Th ere is a lot of training sen and performing these tasks as Airmen from Group, Kadena Air Base, started that goes into everything, so for previous OCD events to help the 374th Logistics building 10 practice bundles once we learn how to do ev- make the training event more Readiness Squadron and 140 supply bundles for the erything it all builds up to this successful. combat mobility fl ight 66th Operation Christmas Drop and being a veteran (third year “With Christmas Drop being cut plywood to create bundles at Andersen at Anderson Air Force Base, at OCD) it’s really nice to show as big as it’s important for us to Air Force Base, Guam, Dec. 7. Th e bundles are others how to accomplish our train with and learn from Yoko- Guam, Dec. 7. prepared to be dropped out of tasks more effi ciently.” ta Airmen as we perform costal multiple C-130J Super Hercules Th e group began the bundle humanitarian airlift drops to ities and getting through our Coast Humanitarian Air Drop and C-130H Hercules from the building process by cutting the help us become more profi cient process more quickly because training. U.S. Air Force, Royal Australian wood into the proper size and at it to provide our coworkers we have the skillset that they are “Doing this is really exciting Air Force and Koku Jieitai (Ja- length, then set up the boxes so with these methods as a new looking for.” because a lot of what we do at pan Air Self-Defense Force) to the bundles could be ready to be capability for us to possibly use By creating the bundles, the our home station is just training, the 56 diff erent islands over the airdropped. Th e fi nal step in the it in the future,” Master Sgt. Sim fl ight provides the mission with so when we get to come down next ten days. build, is securing the parachutes Edgar Malinao, Kadena Air the means of expanding the here and apply those skills is su- “It’s feels great and is really so that the bundles can be safely Base, 353rd Special Operations existing capabilities to provide per fulfi lling because we can see nice to know that the supplies delivered to the islands. Group aerial delivery superin- tactical airlift in accordance with the joy of the islanders as they that we are putting into the Members from the 353rd tendent. “I’ve hosted the bundle national strategic objectives receive their bundles,” Senior bundles are truly going to those SOG joined the LRS team to building in the past, so I feel like within the Indo-Asia Pacifi c Airman Cassandra Cobb, 374th in need,” said Senior Airman provide experience they gained we are adding to their capabil- Region while helping complete LRS CMF rigger. 8 SAMURAI GATE DECEMBER 15, 2017 Teaching the giving spirit Matthew C. Perry By Margaret Bartlow hosts Far East Stearley Heights Elementary School 5th Grade Ms. Rice’s Class Journalism Contest 12/12/2017 — Th is year the second-annual toy drive was or- ganized by Stearley Heights and Kadena Elementary Schools. It was planned by Kadena Elemen- tary’s counselor, Ms. Beard-Ar- chie, and Stearley Heights Elementary’s counselor, Mr. Wirsich. Th e donations will go to the Okinawa Children’s Hospital and to Okinawa City Social Wel- fare. Children, especially during the season of giving, should be able to know and show the true meaning of selfl essness. So as the exciting holiday of Christmas approaches, kids are given the opportunity to donate to the less fortunate. Th is will not just teach (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Muriah King) the true meaning of selfl essness Samuel Stebbins, left, a student from Kadena High School, and Anna Fuerst, a student from Matthew C. (M.C.) Perry High school, pose for a picture after receiving and boost the giving spirit inside awards for best editorial writing at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Dec. 1. all of us, but also make someone Over 100 students from 13 Pacifi c Department of Defense schools gathered at M.C. out there a whole lot happier. Perry High School to compete for best journalists, broadcasters and publishers in the region during the 26th Annual Far East Journalism Contest. Th ese two schools are teaching ^SHES students Margaret, Juliet and Javier collecting toys for our drive. ( P h o t o b y A n g i e F i n o ) the giving spirit. Th e guidelines were as fol- Stearley Heights Elementary responded “Th e toy drive is an holiday. We would like for every And now, I’d like to wish lows: Donations will be accepted participants made the comments excellent way for our school to student that gives and every everyone a very merry Christ- from Monday, December 4, to below when asked the question come together and bring hope child that receives to share in mas. I hope that everybody this Th ursday, December 14. Toys “What do you think about the and joy to kids in need.” A few these benefi ts this happy season. Christmas will have something, will be given to children within toy drive?” One student replied other exquisite answers were Christmas is for everyone, and anything, that will bring joy to the age range of 1-13. It was asked “I think it is a good idea to give given by several other students. we should try to make sure ev- them. We are trying to make this that the toys be inexpensive (ex. new toys to kids who can’t aff ord Th e toy drive will bring hap- erybody will feel the Christmas possible. Th ree cheers to every- under ten dollars), and that they them.” Two others replied “I piness, joy, hope, and Christmas spirit this year. It will never one else that is trying also. Any were put in the box unwrapped, feel really good about donating spirit to so many people this hurt for anyone to make at least act of kindness, however small, but in their original packaging. to kids and want the school to Christmas. It will also bring the a small donation at any good is never wasted. Toy drives, food Th e class that donates the most continue fundraisers like this.” true meaning of both Christmas organization. We are trying to, drives, all of them are helping to toys will receive a prize. and “I think it’s a very good and selfl essness to so many and hopefully succeeding, teach make a very merry Christmas. It is known among all of us that idea to help kids who don’t have students, along with a gift of students this. Th at again brings Th at, and to teach selfl essness we should give Christmas spirit many things, and besides, it’s an even more generous heart in the word selfl essness. Give as to students, are the goals of our and gift s to the less fortunate. the season of giving!” A teacher for every student this joyful well as receive. eff orts. DECEMBER 15, 2017 SAMURAI GATE 9 10 SAMURAI GATE DECEMBER 15, 2017

To submit an announcement for the base bulletin, please visit www.kadena.af.mil NO FEDERAL ENDORSEMENT OF PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS OR ACTIVITIES IS INTENDED. Trash & Recycling Important channels, you may seek IG assistance work with the Wing and other agencies on to discriminatory behavior. If you feel Information to determine if the complaint should be island in support of these training events. you are being unlawfully discriminated 18th CONS and 18 CEG continue to work fi led with the IG. You can fi le a complaint We apologize for any inconvenience against, to include sexual harassment, diligently to ensure our communities if you reasonably believe inappropriate that this may cause. As always, in the take action. We encourage members to receive reliable trash collection services. conduct has occurred or a violation of event of an emergency, seek emergency use the chain of command fi rst to resolve Even though we’ve been able to resume law, policy, procedures, or regulation services at the U.S. Naval Hospital on issues at the lowest level. However, you limited waste collection service, our has been committed. Complete the Camp Foster, or by dialing ambulance can also contact the EO offi ce at 634- waste collection emergency is not over. personnel data information on an AF services at 634-1796 or by cell phone 2571 to set up an appointment; or you We need your help to maximize recycling Form 102 and briefl y outline the facts 098-934-5911. For more information, may visit our offi ce. Please note that to reduce our garbage. Up to 50% of and relevant information related to the contact Capt. Jennifer Stark at 630-4565, the EO offi ce will not accept a Formal our trash is recyclable. A helpful list of issue or complaint. List the allegations Staff Sgt. Larissa Palmer at 630-4504, or Complaint more than 60 calendar days for recyclable items can be found at KAB of wrongdoing briefl y, in general terms Ms. Melissa Cook at 630-5050. military and 45 calendar days for civilian Facebook. Bulk trash services have and provide supporting narrative detail complaints after the alleged offense been temporarily interrupted, so DO NOT and documents later, when interviewed Bioenvironmental Engineering occurred without suffi cient justifi cation. leave large items on the side of the road. by an IG person. Allegations should be Gas Mask Fit Testing Date/Time Large refuse can be brought to several written as bullets and should answer who Change Kadena Legal Office Closure locations off base for disposal. For committed the violation; what violation Bioenvironmental Engineering will now The Kadena Legal Offi ce will be closed questions or concerns, please call CE was committed; what law, regulation, be conducting Gas Mask Fit Testing on on Dec 15 for an offi ce function. For Customer Service at 634-2424. procedures, or policy was violated; when Thursday of each week from 0730-0930 emergency situations please contact did the violation occur. Help is available: walk-ins. Located in building 428 across Capt Gabriel Bush at 634-3300. Kadena and Camp Foster Call your Kadena IG offi ce at 634-7622 from the Schilling Community Center. If Emergency Numbers for Maj. Sarabia or 634-1109 for Mr. you are deploying or going TDY within Early Childhood Ministers Needed Kadena Fire Emergency Services Lovingood, or leave a message on the 30 days and require a fi t test please call Basic Specifi cations and/or qualifi cations reminds everyone to program their cell Kadena Fraud Waste & Abuse (FWA) 634-4752. include: contractor must be an adherent phones with the emergency numbers. To Hotline at 634-0404. to the Protestant Christian faith and be report an emergency on Kadena via cell, Finance Office Closure living a life consistent with the morals dial 098-934-5911, and from an offi ce 18th MDG Clinic Closures The Finance offi ce will be closed the third and ethics of the Protestant Christian phone, dial 911. For Camp Foster via The Kadena Air Base clinic will be closed Thursday of every month for training. For faith; contractor must be skilled at cell, dial 098-911-1911, or from an offi ce on the following dates this year: Dec 25 emergencies please call 080-6487-6969. directing, training and employing phone, dial 911. (Christmas Day) Closed All Day / Dec volunteers in order to provide teachers 26 (5th AF Family Day) Closed All Day / Post Office Closures and News for all necessary children’s classes during AADD: Get Home Safe The 18th Medical Group is responsible Holiday Hours: assigned events; 2 years of experience in Did you drink tonight? Made a plan but for ensuring the 18th Wing’s medical Finance: Dec 25 - 26 - Closed / Jan 1 - 2 children’s education in a school, daycare it’s falling through? Can’t catch a cab? readiness in support of the United - Closed or church environment is preferred. A If any of this applies to you, call AADD. States’ and Japan’s mutual interests. In Parcel Pick-up: Nov 27 - Dec 29 / Mon demonstration of skills is not required. Don’t risk it all, when you can get a ride keeping with this mission, the Kadena - Sat: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. / Dec 25 - Obtain a copy of bid documents at Chapel home for free. Call AADD at the cell Clinic will be participating in 18th Wing Closed / Jan 1 - Closed Two, Bldg. 425 from Dec 11 to Jan 3 , phone number 098-961-1110 and then upcoming exercises. During exercises, Family Day Parcel Pick-up Hours: between the hours of 0730-1630, Monday ask for the USO or dial DSN: 634-3889 our normal patient care and clinical Dec 26, Jan 2: 9:00 – 3:00 p.m. through Friday (excluding holidays and We’re open from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. and services (pharmacy, lab, immunizations, down days). The Contract Offi cer’s we’re here to help. etc.) will be impacted, as the clinic will be 18th Wing Equal Opportunity contact information for submitting bids closed for one day during these exercises Do you face concerns of unlawful are Tech. Sgt. Jennifer L. DePrinzio who How to File a Complaint with IG (exact dates subject to scenario). We discrimination or sexual harassment? If can be reached at Bldg. 425, jennifer. If you believe you are unable to resolve ask for your patience as our trusted so, Kadena Air Base leadership maintains [email protected] or 634-2219 and your complaint through supervisory professionals exercise their skills and a strict “zero-tolerance” policy pertaining Continued on PAGE 11

Shisa, Okinawa’s Guardians on the Rooftops

Shisa, the “legendary beast” placed on the rooftops and entrances of Okinawan houses, watches over and protects us. The word “Shisa” is said to have originated from the word “Simha,” which means “lion” in the Sanskrit language. The scary looking faces of the Shisa may seem ironic as they are placed on the rooftops and entrances as talismans against evil. It seems to represent the expansive atmosphere of the You may probably notice that most of the southern tropical island of Okinawa. Shisa are in an “a-un” pair, one on the left and A long time ago, it is said that the Shisa was the other on the right. enshrined at the entrance and hilltops of The Shisa with an open mouth is male, and the villages. But since the last century or so, the one whose mouth is closed is female. The term Shisa began to get placed on top of the roofs “a-un” also comes from the Sanskrit language. of civilian homes. The term is supposed to represent the first This became popular when red roof tiles were and last letters of the alphabet, meaning the made open to the public without any restric- beginning and end of things. tions. It is said that these Shisa statues were There are a variety of small porcelain Shisas first made by craftsmen who used the remains that are sold as souvenirs. of red roof tiles. You will definitely find one you will like. DECEMBER 15, 2017 SAMURAI GATE 11 Master Sgt. Kevin T. Chellis who can be Come Volunteer At The Wired Bean reached at Bldg. 425, [email protected]. The Wired Bean is a home away from mil or 634-1288 for questions. Submission home for our junior enlisted and we need and demonstration due date is Jan 3 NLT E-4s and above to volunteer to monitor the (1300) hours. Basis of Award by which the facility and check out equipment. Please individual is elected will be Best Value. sign up using the link below or email Requirement for contractor background Melissa Rafferty for more information at check(s) for position(s) involving contact [email protected]. with children below 18 years age, as directed by DoDI 1402.5. Any other AADD relevant information includes, please Airmen Against Drunk Driving is looking go to Chapel Two, Bldg. 425 to pick up for volunteers. If you’re not a drinker, or if a full statement of work description and you’re under 20, then it’s defi nitely perfect requirements. for you! Regardless of rank, the times are 10 p.m.-1 a.m. on weekend nights and Kadena Air Base women's softball there are six volunteers for every night. Are you looking to play slow pitch softball? Non-alcoholic drinks are provided. AADD Our women's team competes all-year is also looking for squadron POC’s and round on Kadena with other local bases schedulers. This will help fi ll weekend and and there is even opportunities to play event activities and will hopefully affect in tournaments throughout the Pacifi c even more folks around base. If you have Theater! Practices are held twice per any questions please contact Airman 1st week and this is open to all active duty Class Aaron Wright, AADD President, personnel, spouses and DOD civilians. at [email protected] or Senior For more information, please contact Airman Najera, AADD Vice-President, at Master Sgt. Crystal Benitez at crystal. [email protected]. [email protected]

UPCOMING EVENTS ACE Santa 5K Run Fundraiser Airmen Committed to Excellence is holding a Santa 5k Run on Saturday December 30th. Day of run registration starts at 7:00 a.m and race starts at 8:00 a.m.; both start in the parking lot next to Outdoor Recreation. For more information and to register, please contact Aurora Salazar at [email protected].

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Volunteers Needed At Amelia Earhart Intermediate School Guest classroom readers requested for Black History Month from Jan 15 - Feb 15. School volunteers requested to read to students at Amelia Earhart Intermediate School (grades 3-5) Jan 17 & Feb 6, 9:10- 10:00 a.m. Selection of books provided, contact POC, Ms. Gatus, sarah.gatus@ pac.dodea.edu to sign up, LOA provided. 12 SAMURAI GATE DECEMBER 15, 2017