18th Wing conducts joint NEO exercise with U.S. Navy and Army · 2019-10-15 · early. I remember during middle school that Omegle was the next best thing on the Internet. At sleepovers

By Staff Sgt.Marcus Morris18th Wing Public Affairs4/12/2015 — Members from the Air Force, Navy and Army processed 150 families while participating in a joint Non-combatant Evacuation Operation exercise here April 8. In an Okinawa-wide NEO, evacuees may have to go to the closest NEO point, which may not always be the military branch their family is with, so it is important for the diff erent branches to work together to familiarize themselves with the procedures. Representatives from fi nance,

the Red Cross, housing and more took the dependants and volunteers through the steps needed to take their family from a rally point to being able to board an aircraft to a safe location. “Th e purpose of this exercise is to acquaint the family members of what the process will be like,” said Lorrie Perkins, 18th Force Support Squadron Airmen and Family Readiness Center team lead. “It also lets us practice with real families so that we get an idea of some of the challenges we face so we can be better prepared in the eventuality that we have to really do this.”

With summer on its way, many new families are being sta-tioned on Kadena Air Base and some of them have never dealt with NEOs and may think they can wait till the last minute to gather paperwork and supplies. “It’s a little easier on people if they understand the process and what might be required ahead of time instead of waiting until a NEO situation comes about and try to put stuff to-gether,” said Col. Debra Lovette, 18th Mission Support Group commander. “We are trying to decrease that stress level when a NEO actually happens by letting

By Staff Sgt.Marcus Morris18th Wing Public Affairs4/13/2015 — Instructors from the Asymmetric Th reat Divi-sion of Analytic Services pro-vided the 18th Security Forces Squadron with a fi ve day Pacifi c Air Forces High Risk Response Training here April 6-10. Th e training consisted of interactive academics covering the history of the active shooter, defensive tactics and techniques and intense, instructor-led sce-narios with role playing victims and other distractions. “Th e training helped gear our security forces up just in case something happens around the base whether it is an active shooter or someone actually hurting individuals

around a populated area,” said Staff Sgt. Sedale Berry, 18th SFS training instructor. “It also showed them the tactics they need to rescue victims and hos-tages and how to take out the immediate threat that is there.” In previous years, Analytic Services realized valuable

seconds are wasted waiting for either backup or a SWAT team, this training focuses on the defenders having to act imme-diately to save lives. “We teach security forces at all nine PACAF bases,” said Jon Mulcahy, Analytic Services Inc.

Asymmetric Threat Division trains 18th SFS on high risk response

Shogun’s Edge Forceful Tiger

18th Wing conducts joint NEO exercise with U.S. Navy and Army

^Dependants and other non-combatants have their identifi cation bracelets scanned before entering a bus to be taken to a simulated aircraft during a Non-combatant Evacuation Operation exercise on Kadena Air Base, April 8.

Capt. Alexander Sira, 33rd Rescue Squadron rescue pilot, maneuvers an HH-60G Pave Hawk to receive fuel from an MC-130P Combat Shadow during the Forceful Tiger exercise over the Pacifi c Ocean, April 1. The exercise allowed the 33rd RQS to practice combat search and rescue techniques in a hostile environment. The Combat Shadow is assigned to the 17th Special Operations Squadron and the Pave Hawk is assigned to the 33rd RQS.

A team of 18th Security Forces Squadron response force members clear the hallway of people in Ryukyu Middle School for an active-shooter scenario during a Pacifi c Air Forces High Risk Response training course at Kadena Air Base, April 9.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Marcus Morris)

(U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Rachelle Coleman)


SEE NEO EXERCISE, PAGE 4

SEE 18TH SFS, PAGE 2

A P R I L 1 7 , 2 0 1 52 S A M U R A I G A T E

mobile security training instruc-tor. “In the event of an active shooter situation or high risk response situation going off we believe these tactics will help se-curity forces quell any threat and quickly get a shooter situation under control with minimum casualties or loss of life.” During training, instructors walked participants through buildings or rooms step by step dealing with barricaded suspects, scenarios with one and two shooters, and having to clear rooms and remove wound-ed individuals. Aft erwards, the role players were brought in and participants got to test their

experience against an assault of noises and visual stimuli while their adrenaline was pumping. “Role players give Security Forces a more realistic training,” said Berry. “We could do the training without role players but it wouldn’t be realistic and it wouldn’t be benefi cial to our people so they defi nitely play an important role in the training.” Last year the 18th SFS had 10 people certifi ed to train high risk response. Aft er they fi nish the fi nal day, 17 individuals will be certifi ed instructors for high risk response, which will allow them to keep their Airmen better prepared for any circumstance.

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 necessar-ily 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 Email to [email protected]

Offi cial Kadena Air Base inquiries: [email protected] DSN:634-3813

There is a conversation many teenagers have had with their parents or friends, me included.“Hey, don’t worry! It’ll be fi ne; all of the

pictures I send disappear aft er ten seconds. Th at’s how Snapchat works.” While many teenagers only share their silly, cross-eyed, quadruple-chinned faces with friends, there are a growing number of teenagers sending inappropriate content that “will disappear.” High school students all feel a certain level of anonymity or safeness that does not exist while using the Internet and apps like Tinder, Omegle, Chat Roulette, Instagram, and Snapchat. Unfortunately, it is incredibly simple for the receiver to take advantage of the sent content, and through the picture may disappear aft er 10 seconds, it can actually last a lot longer than that. While these apps can easily be used inappropriately, the apps themselves are not bad, but should just be used responsibly. It is easy to protect yourself from online predators, but it is rarely done. Th e most eff ective way to keep information secure is to lock any social media accounts and turn all privacy settings on. Many people spend their time clicking on pictures and profi les but it is impossible to know who is viewing your profi le. It could be a friend from school or it could very easily be an online predator. Before friending or accepting anyone’s follow request, it is necessary to actually know who they are. Social media is a great tool for keeping in touch with friends, new or old, and family members, but it is important to use caution and be responsible. I have many friends that pride themselves on the fact they have over one, two, or ten thousand followers. Th is is a dangerous because it is impossible

to be safe with so many unknown people seeing so much of their lives. Th at behavior and feeling of invincibility starts early. I remember during middle school that Omegle was the next best thing on the Internet. At sleepovers or on a Saturday aft ernoons, young girls and boys would sit around a laptop and pretend to be whomever they thought of, giving off silly answers and laughing at the accents they pretended their user to have. However, we all knew that unless you wanted to see the “gross stuff ” you had to turn the camera off . Many of us have since moved on from this fear and feel that sending pornographic content over apps is okay. Th is attitude towards sharing everything on the Internet has also lead to unfortunate, yet completely avoidable situations. Why do so many teenagers participate in an activity that can have so many bad repercussions? Teenage girls reported to Dosomething.org and the National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy that there are three major reasons for their sending of nude photos: as a joke, to feel sexy, or because of peer pressures. Sending inappropriate photos is not a joke nor will it boost a person’s confi dence. While it may be a thrill at fi rst, the psychological damage could deteriorate a girl’s or boy’s self-esteem. Peer pressure is a horrible, but a real-life thing. Everyone experiences peer pressure at some point or another in his or her lifetime, but your body, whether you are male or female, is yours. For teenagers, Snapchat is the most common app where pictures are shared. Snapchat is available for anyone, regardless of age and it is based on the idea of pictures disappearing forever aft er 10 seconds. Despite this, it is easy to either screenshot the picture

or use a third-party app that will save the picture automatically for you. Th ese pictures can be used against the sender at the receiver’s convenience. Even two people that have a trusting relationship should not partake in this kind of activity for two reasons: First, it could be considered illegal. Second, it can easily be shared or shown to others that were not the intended audience. According to Dosomething.org, 17 percent of “sexters” share the messages they receive with others, and 55 percent of those share them with more than one person. Everyone wants to believe that their friends would never betray them, but we have all seen the stories of a girl’s pictures being spread around school as a prank or because she made someone mad. Th ese situations are so damaging to a person’s confi dence and reputation. It is common to think that someone in a close circle is not going to end up like those girls or boys, but it can easily happen to anyone with just the click of a button. Th e number of people sharing inappropriate pictures is increasing. Sources say that 1 in 5 teenagers are sharing provocative photos, but it may be even scarier that the senders are getting younger. It is hard to imagine that 7th and 8th grade students are sending such mature content, but it is happening. I have a younger sister and I believe that it is my job to warn her and educate on her on the dangers of sexting and online predators. Everyone in high school should be doing this as well. Do not encourage it by talking about how much fun and how safe it is in the locker room. Do not make it seem okay to these young, impressionable girls and boys. Do not be afraid to stand up against pressures of sending inappropriate photos across the Internet.

Ten seconds later and that picture still exists

18th Security Forces Squadron response force members carry a simulated casualty to a safe location during a Pacifi c Air Forces High Risk Response Training course at Kadena Air Base, April 9. Role players helped to test the 18th Security Forces Squadron newly learned skills taught during a fi ve day course.

Commentary by Liz JacobsonUSAFE-AFAFRICA Public Affairs

18TH SFS FROM PAGE 1

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A P R I L 1 7 , 2 0 1 5 S A M U R A I G A T E 3

By Airman 1st ClassZade C. Vadnais18th Wing Public Affairs4/14/2015 — Commanders, fi rst ser-geants, superintendents and other leaders from various units around Kadena met to discuss the sexual assault prevention and response investigation process during a leadership panel at the Schilling Community Center April 14. Th e panel, which was the fi rst of its kind on Kadena and was designed to resemble a town hall meeting, was intended to give leaders an opportunity to ask questions, voice concerns and con-tribute to a discussion about the SAPR investigation process.

In order to provide comprehensive perspective, representatives from the Chaplain corps, the legal offi ce, mental health, the offi ce of special investigations, the special victim’s council, the equal op-portunity offi ce, the SAPR offi ce and the vice commander were present to speak with those in attendance. “Th e main purpose of the event was to have an open discussion with all the subject matter experts so people could ask questions they may not have an opportunity to ask otherwise,” said Capt. Elizabeth Belleau, 18th Wing sexual assault response coordinator. “Th e intent was to give them a venue where they have subject matter experts from every agency

that would be involved in a case from the time a sexual assault report is made to the time it is fi nished judicially in one spot to answer any questions.” Due to the fact that individuals in leadership positions are typically the ones interacting with the SAPR offi ce and are oft en responsible for the victim, the accused or both, the panel was geared toward higher-ranking individuals. How-ever, Belleau said the success of the event has prompted the SAPR team to consider holding similar panels for individuals in the NCO and junior enlisted tiers as well. “I’m really satisfi ed with how well the event went,” said Tech. Sgt. Adam Karimi Saleh, 18th Wing NCO in charge of SAPR.

“Th ere was a great discussion and a lot of good information; we’re even talking about holding another one later this year.” Belleau said she hopes the attendees walked away from the panel feeling better equipped to respond to a sexual assault and support those involved, as well as with a broader understanding of the investiga-tion process and all the agencies involved. “Th ere are so many diff erent players involved in an investigation — there’s so much going on,” Belleau said. “We’re all working to do our best throughout the process.” For more information, or for someone to talk to, call the SAPR hotline at 634-7272 or 098-961-7272 from a cell phone.

(U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Zade C. Vadnais)

Representatives from all agencies involved in a sexual assault prevention and response investigation form Kadena’s fi rst SAPR leadership panel to answer questions and facilitate conversation about the SAPR investigation process on Kadena Air Base, April 14.

^Col. Thomas Torkelson, 18th Wing vice commander, gives the opening remarks at a sexual assault prevention and response leadership panel on Kadena Air Base, April 14.

Kadena holds first SAPR leadership panel

^


By Tech. Sgt.Rolando A. GuerreroAir Force Medical Operations Agency4/14/2015 - JOINT BASE SAN A N TON IO - L AC K L A N D, Tx. — Th e Air Force Medical Operations Agency took a step toward creating a robust process improvement culture recently by implementing “Lean Management Rounds.” Lean Management Rounds are an extension of the Air Force

Problem Solving model and cre-ate a vehicle for senior leaders to speak with front-line staff about their challenges. Th e venue also allows senior leaders to coach lean thinking and assist if addi-tional resources are needed. “We needed to change the way we approached our problems,” said Brig. Gen. Lee Payne, Commander of AFMOA. “I too needed to re-evaluate how I lead and I

asked my staff to do the same.” Th e launch was preceded by 16 weeks of planning. “We knew we needed our senior leaders’ buy-in to this diff erent approach,” said Ms. Beth Kohsin, Director of Transformation. “During this process, we kept our leadership informed and laid out a plan to educate our staff .” Th e Offi ce of Transforma-tion’s team of Air Force Smart

Operations Black Belts began the arduous task of planning and educating 27 diff erent rounding sites. Additionally, one-on-one coaching sessions were conducted to assist per-sonnel in clarifying the goal and identifying the ways to measure and track that goal. At the conclusion of the Lean Management Rounds, Payne and his directors met to discuss what they learned and if any additional assistance was needed. Col. Roseanne Warner, Director of Air Force Nursing

Operations, said “It was nice to be able to coach our personnel and to see them make the connection ... you could see the light bulbs come on.” Th is fi rst step in creating and fostering process improvement may seem like a small step, but AFMOA coaches and partners with 75 Military Treatment Fa-cilities worldwide. Now, armed with this new approach, AF-MOA is in position to provide better service to those facilities that care for our most valuable asset, our military family.


^Volunteers answer questions the Non-combatant Evacuation Operation volunteers have during a NEO exercise on Kadena Air Base, April 8. This NEO exercise was set up by the Airman and Family Readiness Center to help dependants and other non-combatants understand the evacuation process in the event of an emergency that would make it unsafe for them to remain on island.

AFMOA launches new, lean approach

people know what’s available, what they might need to get out of town and what they should be thinking about before they actually do any of it.” While some key items vary from fam-ily to family, one important item for any family is passports. “Once they get into the NEO process it is very likely they are going to require a passport to get wherever it is they are going next so that is absolutely an essen-tial to have,” said Lovette. “Some families require some kind of medical supplies, those are kind of critical because you don’t really know how long it’s going to take to get to a location that can resupply your medical needs, so you have to think through how long you might need to have a supply on hand.” For the families with kids it is import-ant to note they will have to wait in line multiple places or be sitting in a queue for a while, so it is recommended to bring electronics, chargers and other en-tertainment or snacks. It is advised that people bring enough food for three days per person. Ideally they’ll never have to tap into that because there will be a plan

in place, but plans are subject to change. Perkins said that each person is al-lowed a suitcase weighing 25 pounds, so it is important to fi gure out what is worth bringing and what can be left behind. Another important item to have prepared is a NEO folder and to make sure one of the NEO wardens or unit representatives assigned to the squadron has an updated map to the dependant’s or other non-combatant’s home if they need to contact them and cannot by phone. “A lot of the paperwork in the folders is pretty easy to keep and update as you go, said Lovette. “Th ings change, so it is important to have it put together now when you have time because it is pretty thorough.” Th e 18th Wing usually conducts a NEO exercise twice a year, with their next one being in August, but they are looking at increasing the frequency of exercises depending on how much more the other services will participate. For more information about NEO, call the Airman and Family Readiness Center at 634-3366 or 098-961-3366, or email them at [email protected].

NEO EXERCISE FROM PAGE 1


By Amber BaillieU.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs4/13/2015 - U.S. AIR FORCE ACAD-EMY, Colo. — In 2001, Japan Air Self-Defense Force Maj. Kazuto Ueda, then a cadet at Japan’s National Defense Academy (NDA), visited the U.S. Air Force Academy for a week. Never in his wildest dreams did he think he’d return here 12 years later to teach Japanese history, military and culture to American cadets. Every year, the Academy and Japan’s NDA exchange an offi cer to teach mili-tary and strategic studies for two years. Ueda, the Academy’s 17th Japanese exchange offi cer, arrived in 2013. “During my time here, I’ve improved my teaching skills, language ability, knowledge about the U.S. military, and established good professional and personal relationships with many U.S. offi cers,” he said. Ueda landed the opportunity to teach U.S. cadets through the Academy’s Mil-itary Personnel Exchange Program. Th e program includes international offi cers from France, Germany, Japan, South Ko-rea and Spain, serving on the faculty and teaching foreign language and culture courses. Th e purpose is to build, sustain and expand international relations. “It’s an opportunity for us to share cultural ways of thinking and attitude,” Ueda said. “Th e program enables cadets to feel more comfortable experiencing another culture or military and prepares them to go abroad.” In 2011, when Ueda was stationed at Misawa Air Base, Japan, he witnessed the Great East Japan Earthquake and joined Operation Tomodachi, where thousands of U.S. service members assisted and

supported Japan following the disaster. “I really appreciated the U.S support at that time,” he said. “Th is experience motivated me to become an exchange offi cer in the U.S.” While here, Ueda has also assisted with the Japanese language class and support-ed the weekly Japanese language conver-sation practice round-table discussions. “I enjoy teaching on Japanese military, which most Japanese language textbooks don’t cover,” he said. “To understand more about what cadets do in Airman-ship programs here, I joined Airmanship 490 (Basic Jump Training) in 2014 and earned my jump wings.” Ueda said he teaches fi ve classes and interacts with more than 100 cadets. “Spending time with cadets is my fa-vorite aspect of the job,” he said. “I think they really enjoy interacting with a native Japanese speaker. Most of them are mo-tivated to study, listen carefully and take good notes.” He said his biggest challenge in the role has been the language barrier. “Sometimes I only understand 75-80 percent of what someone is saying,” he said. “My English has improved signifi -cantly since working here for two years.” Ueda said he’s learned more of an in-teractive way of teaching at the Academy. “Th ere are not many experts in the fi eld of the cyber and space in Japan, so it’s been a nice opportunity for me to learn basic knowledge in these fi elds through teaching cadets and having educational discussions with them,” he said. “I believe understanding U.S. ways of thinking will help me in joint campaigns or U.S.-Japan contingency planning in the future.” Th rough events such as the Japanese Tomodachi Dinner, hosted by the

Academy’s commandant of cadets and other events, Ueda and his wife Toshiko have established memorable professional and personal relationships. “We’ve had a lot of opportunities to socialize,” he said. “In Japan, I would attend most events by myself. It’s been a good opportunity for my wife to better understand my job and we’ve been over-whelmed by the kindness and hospitality of leaders and others here.” Brig. Gen. Stephen Williams, the com-mandant of cadets, said Ueda is a great example of a professional offi cer and has been an inspiration to thousands of cadets. “He and Toshiko have helped increase our understanding of the Japanese culture

by selfl essly sharing their culture with many cadets and permanent party here,” he said. “His eff orts to improve U.S.-Japan relations come from the heart.” It’s important to expose cadets to exchange offi cers so they can improve their acceptance and respect for other cultures, Williams said. “Improving cooperation between coun-tries happen one person at a time,” he said. “Cadets will represent the U.S. as offi cers. Th is program gives them the chance to work with foreign offi cers now, which will improve relations in the future.” Ueda will return to Japan in July to be-gin an assignment at the Air Staff Offi ce in Tokyo.

(Courtesy photo)

^ Japan Air Self-Defense Force Maj. Kazuto Ueda teaches military strategy and operations during a Japanese language class at the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. Every year, the Academy and Japan’s National Defense Academy exchange an offi cer to teach military and strategic studies for two years. Ueda, the Academy’s 17th Japanese exchange offi cer, arrived in 2013.

Foreign officer shares rewards of Academy exchange


By Amaani LyleDefense Media Activity4/7/2015 - WASHINGTON — To highlight the year-round contributions, courage and patriotism of the military community’s youngest members, the Defense Department observes April as the Month of the Military Child, said a Pentagon offi cial. Established by then-Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger in 1986, the month recognizes some 1.9 million U.S. military children ranging in age from infants to 18 years old, who have one or both parents serving in the armed forces, said Barbara Th ompson, the director of DOD’s Offi ce of Family Readiness Policy. “We want to highlight their sacrifi ces (and) support of the military member in their families, so it behooves us to take time from the busy calendar of our events and recognize military children,” she said. Permanent change of stations, deploy-ments and training activities, among other facets of military life, can present unique challenges to children who must constantly adjust to distance, unfamiliar-ity and uncertain schedules, Th ompson explained. “Th at can be a real sacrifi ce, because each parent is a very important part of that child’s makeup,” she said. “So we want to make sure that when they move or change schools, all of those transition times are supported with resources, pro-grams and services.” DOD off ers a variety of programs to

help military children overcome these challenges, Th ompson said.Available programs off er assistance For example, the Child Development Program off ers child care up to age 12. Similarly, youth development programs off er older children opportunities for recreation, and character, social and emotional development. Th ompson reported that parents, too, have resources to help best guide and nurture their children of all ages. Th e New Parents Support Program helps parents during pregnancy and childbirth, and children up to 3 years of age, to reach their full potential through home visitations and parent support groups, she said. Military OneSource is another re-

source available 24/7, 365 days a year, to support parents to learn more about parenting skills, as well as to fi nd support for themselves, Th ompson added. It also off ers telephonic, face-to-face, online and video nonmedical and fi nancial counsel-ing, which she described as “strengthen-ing pillars” for military households sep-arated from extended family or settling into a new environment. “On the installations, we have military family support centers,” she said, “where a multitude of services for transitions and life skills are off ered to make sure our families can be resilient and strengthen them in their eff orts to be the parents they want to be.” Family support has evolved over the last 40 years to become the family read-

iness system, which is a collaborative network of agencies, programs, services and professionals who promote the readiness and quality of life of military families both on installations and in the community, Th ompson said. “Th ere is no ‘wrong’ door,” she said. “So regardless of where you’re seeking support, whether it’s with your pediatri-cian or with your chaplain, he or she will also know the resources to support you in your eff orts to navigate the military life course.”A visual tribute Across the services, Th ompson said, parades, fairs, art and poetry contests will abound as installations develop engaging and amusing activities to solidify the bonds among families and communities. “We want to make sure that children’s voices are heard during the Month of the Military Child,” she said. “It’s a fun time to be with their families (and) to take part in the various activities that the services developed to recognize military children.” Community outreach initiatives in-clude partnerships with the Department of Agriculture and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s 4-H youth group to promote “Purple Up!” on April 15, Th ompson said. Students, school sports team members, teachers and community leaders will wear purple as a visual tribute to military children. “It is hard to be a military child, and they’re doing it super well,” Th ompson said.

By Kaylyn BugayAmerican Red Cross - Kadena Station4/7/2015 — Th e American Red Cross–Kadena Station hosted its annual Volunteer Recognition Ceremony April 1, a luncheon in honor of those who have vol-unteered their time throughout the year. More than 30 people were in attendance, including Col. Frank Allara, 18th Medical Group commander, and Kelli Th ayer, the Special Events chairman who organized the event and was instrumental in its success. Th is year’s event theme was “Everyday Heroes”, signifying the extraordinary contributions that ordinary people make to the community through volunteer eff orts. Since the beginning of the current year, 64 individual

volunteers have donated more than 1,500 hours to the Kadena Station Red Cross. Nalan Miles, the station manager, presented certifi cates and awards for volunteer service alongside Maj. Donald Tritz, 18th Medical Group. As-sisting were staff members Mia Bostic and Hailey Shabazz. In opening and closing statements, Miles expressed her gratitude and profusely thanked all who have helped to meet the Red Cross mission. Allara also spoke to the outstanding support provided to the Kaden clinic in alliance with American Red Cross volunteers, further thanking everyone who has chosen to donate their time. Among those honored were

Jeff ery Wright, a long-time medical clinic volunteer; Mari-bel Paulino, the Kadena Station Health and Safety chairman; and Chuck Miller, Health and Safety Instructor trainer. Wright and Paulino each re-ceived awards in recognition of their fi ve years of Ameri-can Red Cross service; Mill-er received a plaque in appre-ciation of service. In addition, Kadena Station Chairmen and members of the Station Advi-sory Council were awarded for outstanding leadership. All vol-unteers in attendance received certifi cates and gift s in appreci-ation of their service. For information on how to become a Red Cross volunteer, visit AmericanRedCrossKade-na.com or call 634-1294.

Sacrifi ces of the military child recognized during April

American Red Cross at Kadena hosts annual Volunteer Recognition

(Photo by American Red Cross volunteer Ashli Chisolm)



By Rick RzepkaU.S. Army Garrison Okinawa Public Affairs4/15/2015 - TORII STATION — Ar-rows and hatchets whizzed through the air as dozens of scouts converged on a sub-tropical beach in the East China Sea for a gathering known as Camp Dragon April 6-12. While the scene may sound reminiscent of a Viking raid or a prim-itive military operation, the roving band of adventurers and outdoorsmen were mostly cheerful young men earning new merit badges, making new friends and having a good time. For the third year in a row, the Far East Council of the Boy Scouts of America held its spring council camp at the home of the U.S. Army on Okinawa – Torii Sta-tion. More than 90 scouts from South Korea, Sasebo and Okinawa sojourned at Torii Beach for six days of outdoor activ-ities including aquatics, marksmanship, archery, craft s and more. Th e event is considered a long-term camp experience that is a requirement for the camping merit badge and quali-fi es participating Scouts for the Order of the Arrow – a national honor society. But the true aim of the powwow isn’t badges or qualifi cations; it’s simply fun and camaraderie. “Number one, I hope they have a whole lot of fun while they’re out here,” said, Program Director, David Ingebretsen.

“At the same time, learning some Scout skills and getting to know some of the Scouts that they haven’t met before and have a good experience interacting with other Scouts,” he said. For Ingebretsen, a former Marine, scouting is a path to help develop young men into responsible adults by providing leadership opportunities through out-door programs like Camp Dragon. “Scouting is a great program for youth development because we have a struc-tured program. We have adult mentors, leaders and youth [who become leaders]. We teach them a little bit about their country, about being a responsible adult and some outdoor skills, such as cooking and setting up tents and things like that. It helps prepare them to go on to become good citizens later on in life,” said Inge-bretsen. Th e Far East Council, Boy Scouts of America serves more than 2,500 youth members and its mission is to provide leadership opportunities through qual-ity programs, mentoring and ongoing development through outdoor experi-ences, according to its website. One of those volunteers, Airman 1st Class Scott Fremming of Kadena Air Force Base’s 18th Wing, sees Camp Dragon as a chance to give back to a new generation of Scouts who, like himself, seek to serve the greater good.

“I remember the volunteers and every-thing that had to go into summer camps that I went to so I wanted to take a chance to come out here and volunteer and give back to scouting,” said Fremming, for whom Scouting is a Family tradition. “I made Eagle Scout. My father’s an Eagle Scout, my brother’s an Eagle Scout … so it’s a big tradition in the Family,” he said. Fremming said he believes that Scout-ing is a great chance to immerse young people in a positive environment and teach them lessons that they can take with them for the rest of their lives along with giving them a sense of purpose and service. “I think early on scouting gave me a sense of belonging to something bigger than myself,” said Fremming. “It taught me to think more for the group and not in a selfi sh way. I enjoy being part of a group being able to help on a large scale. Scouting was a great way to do that when I was younger and I feel that being in the military is a great way to do that now,” he said. For the younger Scouts, the purpose is a little more obtuse but understandable never-the-less. “If the world lost power and there was a giant world-wide blackout, almost every single child would go weepy willy, gnashing their teeth, completely freaking out,” said 13-year-old Landon Moroni

Dummar, who remains unworried by such a predicament. “Being in Scouts would certainly help to build a fi re and a shelter,” he said. As younger generations rely more and more on technology for everything from entertainment to education, the Scouts here are garnering real-life skills and experiences that will serve them well in the future. “A lot of kids forget what it’s like to be outside on a continuous basis, precisely because of technology,” said Ingebretsen. “It’s a great enabler, technology, but it’s also got some curses associated with it. One of those is that it tends to keep us indoors and keeps us focused on a screen instead of being outside enjoying the outdoors – enjoying one another. Just being outdoors is a great experience and a lot of kids aren’t getting that … and these kids are.” Th ough most Scouts don’t get the opportunity to camp on a tropical beach during their spring break campouts, the Far East Council knows they’re lucky to be able to continue to use Torii Beach for Camp Dragon. “Th e Army is totally behind us here,” said Ingebretsen. “I have to give a shout out to garrison. Th ey’ve really bent over backwards to help us be here this week. We got some tentage and other support this week, so they’ve really enabled us to have this camp,” he said.

(U.S. Army photos by Rick Rzepka)

Scouts fi re arrows during archery badge qualifi cation April 7 during Camp Dragon at Torii Station. More than 90 scouts from South Korea, Sasebo and Okinawa sojourned at Torii Beach for six days of outdoor activities including aquatics, marksmanship, archery, crafts and more.

^Boy Scouts navigate their kayak at Torii Beach April 7 during a spring council camp held at Torii Station.

SCOUTS OUT: Boy Scouts gather at Torii Station for Camp Drago

^


Don’t be a victim

(U.S. Army photo by Rick Rzepka)

A self-defense class was hosted by U.S. Army Garrison Okinawa’s Sexual Harrassment/Assualt Response and Prevention April 6 at Army MWR, Torii Station, Okinawa’s Gym. There’s plenty of time to sign up for the next Self Defense Workshop April 27. Call 644-4942 for more information.

Tacit farming makes Torii Station unique

(U.S. Army photos by Dan Collins)

For more than 60 years, Torii Station has served many critical functions in the Pacifi c theater. From receiving and distributing cargo to port operations, the U.S. Army’s footprint remains small while its mission continues to grow. However, the mission isn’t the only thing growing at Torii Station, as every year hundreds of local farmers harvest their crops at the U.S. Army’s home on the island. Today, more than 400 tacit farmers grow sugarcane, potatoes, carrots, watermelons and other delectable fruits and vegetables on the post, which allows for a unique relationship to fl ourish between U.S. Army Garrison – Okinawa and local residents. According to offi cials in Yomitan Village, the accord between tacit farmers and Torii Station strengthens the relationship between the Army and the people of Okinawa. Some of the produce grown here eventually fi nds its way to the Farmer’s Market, held every Wednesday at Torii Station, where Soldiers and Families can enjoy the unique and fresh fl avors of Okinawa. The market is located in front of the gym near the Education Center and accepts Yen only.

ORUrgent/RoutineHousing Maintenance

Emergency

A MOUNTAIN

MOLEHILL?

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

We have all been exposed to the old wives tales such as: “if you keep your eyes crossed they will stay that way” or “a little birdie told me” or “this won’t hurt a bit” and last but not least “your fi sh went to live in the ocean”. These may sound harmless but these small seemingly harmless inaccuracies grow into habits later on. At housing maintenance we strive to make sure that each occupant’s needs are met in a timely manner.

Be considerate of your neighbors and give the basic facts without exaggerating your problem. Infl ation of maintenance requirements results in emergency work order response and prevents immediate service to occupants who are experiencing actual emergency situations. (i.e. serious damage affecting safety or security, problems that could cause loss of life or major property, or damage to a facility that prevents proper security).

This isn’t just a song. A little goes a long way. Our Okinawan host country nationals that work at housing maintenance work 7 days a week to support base housing occupants

encompassing the entire island of Okinawa. A little known fact is that when typhoons strike housing maintenance service call clerks and technicians are required to stay at the offi ce for extended periods of time. During these periods they usually spend over 24 hours, answering emergency phone calls from occupants. They learn our language before being hired in order to communicate with us the best they can but listening to a fast talker in a foreign language no matter how much of the language you know can still be a challenge. Add to that an angry or impolite customer and that creates an atmosphere of frustration for both parties. Please remember to be polite to all of the housing maintenance service call clerks and to the responding maintenance technicians. They are there to help you accomplish your maintenance needs. Remember we are guests here in Okinawa and a little courtesy goes a long way to maintaining great relations with our hosts.

OR

Structures• Roof/ceiling leaks - place container/towels under leak to catch

small amounts of water contact housing mx on regular duty hours

• Mold Mediation• Walls/Doors/Cabinet/Roof Repair

Plumbing• Clogged Toilet (not only one)- use plunger repeatedly to clear- if overfl owing turn water off to toilet by

turning knob behind toilet all the way to the right until tight

- if still clogged contact housing mx on regular duty hours

• Minor water leaks (controllable w/towels)• Water Pressure • Sink/Toilet Leaks or clogs• Garbage Disposal inop• Water Discoloration

Electrician• Electrical hot water heater minor leak- place towels around the base of water

heater and contact housing mx on regular duty hours

• Outlet/Light inop

HVAC• A/C inop (other than summer)• Heating inop (other than winter)

Housing Maintenance Service Call hours of operation for taking all work orders:6:30 a.m.-11:30p.m Sunday-Saturday, 634-4663 (HOME), option 6.Between the hours of 11:30p.m. - 6:30 a.m. only emergency service work orders will be taken by phone at 634-HOME, option 5 (i.e. problems that could cause loss of life, major property damage, serious damage affecting health, safety or security, complete electric or water outages)

All routine or urgent work order requirements can be submitted online using your home/work computer at: http://www.kadena.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-141022-064.pdf or called in during hours of operation.

Serious damage affecting safety or securuty, Problem that could cause loss of life or major property Damage to a facility that prevents proper security

• Smoke detector/fi re alarm going off (fi re)- CALL FIRE DEPT IMMEDIATELY

• Lock out• Security- Broken Window• Security- cannot close/open doors• Safety/security- children locked in• Safety- Ceiling leaks that endanger

electrical system• No power or water • Electrical outlets sparking or smoking• Electrical main circuit breaker tripping• Smoke detector/ fi re alarm going off(no

fi re)• Electrical hot water heater major leak• Electrical hot water heater inop-(no hot

water)• ALL drains clogged• Toilet /Sink/Shower Clogged (only one in

unit)• Major water leak (fl ooding)• (Summer Season Only) A/C inop- turned on by direction of Wg/Camp

Commander• (Winter Season Only) Heater inop- turned on by direction of Wg/Camp

Commander• Chiller/Boiler Plant Outage • Refrigerator inop• Elevator inop• Automatic tower doors

Only emergency service work orders will be taken by phone between the hours of 11:30 p.m. - 6:30 a.m. at 634-HOME, option 5 (i.e. problems that could cause loss of life, major property damage, serious damage affecting health, safety, or security, complete electric or water outages)


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

Kadena Tax CenterThe tax offi ce is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Seasonal services are offered at the Kadena Tax Center, Bldg 1460. Tax Center Appointment Line: 634-7418/098-961-7418. Appointments will be available for rental property, commanders, and teachers. The Tax Center does not prepare home business and sales of rental propertyTax Season Offi ce Hours:March 30 – May 15: Monday - Friday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Walk-in Service Only) (Appointments by availability) Closed Holidays and PACAF Family Days: April 20-24: Limited Walk-in Services due to Exercise / May 22: Closed PACAF Family Day / May 25: HOLIDAYBring in the following required documentation to complete a Tax Return:- DOD/Military Identifi cation card (except contractors) - Power of Attorney (If electronic fi ling on behalf of your spouse)- Social Security Number(s)- Bank Routing and Account Number(s)- Forms W-2 and 1099 (from all employers and fi nancial institutions)- IRA*- Rental Property (includes total income, mortgage interest, taxes, insurance and other related expenses)*- Child Care Cost/Providers and their identifi cation numbers*- Foreign Earned Income Exclusion*- Sale of Residence (personal residence only)*- Sale of Stocks/Mutual Funds 1099B or 1099 Int/Div* * If applicableDon’t have time to wait? They offer a drop off service for simple returns. Take all tax documents and they will call you when your tax return is ready for review. (Dropoff’s are not accepted during Exercise or inspection weeks.) For more information contact Christy Murphy at 634-7418.

New Patriot Express departure timesStarting April 18, the Patriot Express will be departing at 7:45 a.m. The check-in times for the Patriot Express are from 2:30 to 4:30 a.m. on Saturday mornings. All PCS-ing personnel must be checked in no later than 4:30 a.m. on Saturday morning and through the security gate by 5 a.m. or risk being removed from the fl ight. Mother’s Day essay contestThe Kadena Library will be hosting a Mother’s Day essay contest April 20 through May 6. Children ages 6-12 are encouraged to write an essay of why “My Mom is the Best!” Essays should be no longer than 200 words. Entries must be turned in to library by 8 p.m. on 6 May.For more information, contact William Niblick at 634-1502. Kadena Family Readiness Center closureThe Kadena Airman and Family Readiness Center will be closed on Friday April 14, noon to 5 p.m. for staff training. For emergency assistance, contact the Command Post at 634-1800. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. scholarship contestThe Sigma Gamma Gamma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. would like to invite all high school seniors to participate in their 2015 High School Senior essay contest. The deadline to enter is May 1, 2015. For more information, contact Cortez Pree at [email protected] or 080-3526-0358. Air Force Association (AFA) Pitsenbarger Award applications deadlineApplications for the AFA Pitsenbarger

Award grant are due May 1. This is a one-time grant of $400 to selected top Community College of the Air Force graduates who plan to pursue a baccalaureate degree. The application is available at http://www.afa.org/afa/informationfor/military/pitsenbargeraward/ E-mail your completed applications to [email protected] by May 1. Need racers for 2015 Naha Dragon Boat RaceThe Kadena Air Force Dragon Boat Team is looking for men and women for the dragon boat race May 5 in Naha City. Practices are offered Mondays and Wednesdays at 5:15 p.m. at the Kadena Marina and Thursdays at 5:15 a.m. at Kadena Fairchild pool. Locations are subject to change. For more information, email Master Sgt. Timothy Middleton at [email protected], or Staff Sgt. Christopher Price at [email protected]. You can also fi nd the team on Facebook: Kadena Air Force Shogun Dragon Boat Team. Estate claims for Airman 1st Class Kelly C. TomfohrdeAll claims for or against the estate of Airman 1st Class Kelly C. Tomfohrde must be submitted to the appointed court offi cer. To make a claim, contact Capt. William Scheerer at 634-0371 or 632-5800. Kadena and Camp Foster emergency numbersKadena Fire Emergency Services would like to remind everyone to program their cell phones with the emergency numbers. To report an emergency on Kadena via cell, dial 098-934-5911, and from an offi ce phone, dial 911. For Camp Foster via cell, dial 098-911-1911, or from an offi ce phone, dial 911.

Air Force Assistance Fund (AFAF)The 2015 Air Force Assistance Fund (AFAF) campaign began March 23 and will run for six weeks. The AFAF is an opportunity to help our fellow Airmen when they need it most. This campaign supports four charities; the Air Force Village (Offi cer’s retirement community), the Air Force Enlisted Village, the Air Force Aid Society and the LeMay Foundation that are all dedicated to the caring of Airmen and their families. For more information, contact Master Sgt. Luis Costa, Master Sgt. Christopher Pearsall or Master Sgt. Matthew Croswell. AFN decoder issue and return office relocationEffective immediately, the Kadena Furnishing Management Offi ce’s AFN Decoder issue and return operation has moved to BLDG 54425. The hours of operation will remain the same: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Fridays from 1 to 2:30 p.m. For more information, call the Furniture Management Offi ce at 632-4004.

UPCOMING EVENTSNational Library Week QR Code huntSaturday April 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. is your last opportunity to participate in the library QR Code scavenger hunt. Solve the clues to enter to win a fabulous prize bag. For more information, contact William Niblick at 634-1502. Air Force Association’s “Air Power Week”The AFA and Kadena School Age Care centers are teaming up to celebrate the Month of the Military Child. AFA volunteers will spend time educating the children on what Air Power is. The week culminates with an impressive static display of Team

Kadena’s aircraft. Go to www.keystoneAFA.org or contact SSgt. Abraham Almonte to fi nd out more.

Air Force Association April meetingThe Air Force Association Keystone Chapter monthly chapter meeting will be held at the Schilling Community Center, Shi Shi Room from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. April 29. Chief Master Sgt. Daniel Janssen, 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron Superintendent, will be this month’s guest speaker. The Air Force Association is open to all ranks (offi cer and enlisted), Civilians, and Dependents. Come see what it’s all about. For more information visit www.keystoneafa.org or contact Tech. Sgt. Juan Hernandez at 632-9347.

Take Back the NightThe SAPR Team will be hosting their annual Take Back the Night march at the Schilling Center parking lot at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, May 1st. The march will end at Chapel 2 where they will hold a candle light visual. Feel free to sing, chant and yell words of encouragement for victims of sexual assault. For more information, contact Airman Shanese Francis at 090-3790-4681. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESACE Gate 2 clean-upAirmen Committed to Excellence is scheduled to host a Gate 2 clean up April 19. They will be meeting on the dining patio behind Chili’s Too at 10 a.m. This event usually lasts about an hour and supplies are provided, if it is raining it will be cancelled. For more information contact Senior Airman Jason Dwyer at [email protected]. Racers, vendors, volunteers needed for Derby Day Festival The Red Cross on Kadena is currently accepting racer and vendor applications for their 7th annual Derby Day Festival. Applications are due by April 20 and can be picked up at Building 6800, near Gate 1 on Kadena. Event volunteers are also needed for a variety of positions. For more information, email [email protected] or call 634-1294.

Performers wanted for Sexual Assault Prevention Theatrical TeamThe 18th Wing SAPR offi ce is looking for experienced adult actors for the Sexual Assault Prevention Theatrical Team 2015 schedule. SAPTT is a group of actors and advocates dedicated to performing skits for the local community in an effort to raise awareness of sexual assault.　For more information, contact the 18th Wing SAPR Offi ce at 634-3791, or email [email protected]. Kadena Elementary School Field Day 2015Help out Kadena Elementary School by volunteering on May 1. Volunteers will meet up at the Kadena Elementary School gymnasium for instructions. The event will be a fun-fi lled day of traditional fi eld day games, water games, and challenging contests for PSCD/Sure Start through Grade 5. Day’s Schedule: 8:00 AM to 9:10 AM - Set-up / 9:15 AM to 11:15 AM- Session 1 / 11:20 AM to 12:20 PM - Lunch (Provided by KES Staff/Parents) / 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM - Session 2 / 2:35 Pm to 3:15 PM - Clean-up / It would be preferred if you can volunteer all day. However, if you can only volunteer for a half day please read the following: ***If volunteering for “Shift 1,” please understand that you are needed here from 8:00 AM – 11:15 AM to help set-up and then run stations. Likewise, if volunteering for “Shift 2,” please understand that you are needed here from 12:30 PM – 3:15 PM to run stations and then clean-up. As a gesture of our gratitude, we would like Shift 1 volunteers to stay late and Shift 2 volunteers to come early for lunch.*** Dress attire for the day will be comfortable clothing and tennis shoes. For more information email Paige Walker at kdesfi [email protected]. Be a Science Fair volunteerVolunteers are needed for the DoDDS Okinawa District Science Fair to assist with set-up, clean up and judging DoDEA student science fair projects at the Camp Foster Community Center May 7-8 from 8 AM to 4 PM. If interested, contact Ms. Marla Kimmel at [email protected].



By Staff Sgt.Marcus Morris18th Wing Public Affairs4/14/2015 — Th e 18th Muni-tions Squadron opened their gates to allow more than 400 Okinawans the opportunity to visit family tombs for the annual Shimi celebration here April 12. Shimi is a week-long festival to celebrate the New Year’s Day for the dead. In the old days, Okinawans celebrated on the

Lunar New Year in January, but the timing changed with the adoption of Chinese customs. Normally during the festival, the tombs are cleaned by young-er family members about a week before the celebration. Since the munitions area is only open for one day for the families due to security, locals sped up the pro-cess by cleaning in the morning and gathering the remainder of the family around lunchtime. “Th e visit provided an opportunity for the Airmen of the 18th MUNS to physically interact and experience fi rst-hand the culture, religion and tradition of our host nation,” said 2nd Lt. Lyneth Ann Battle, 18th Munitions Squadron ma-terial fl ight commander. “It also helps bridge the relationship between service members and Okinawans.” Th e extensive 5,900-acre mu-nitions area’s dense jungle is home to 20 family tombs, some of which have been around since before World War II. Th e visiting locals were welcomed into the area by 18th MUNS volunteers through gates not open to the public. Once inside, the volun-teers escorted the visitors to their respective family tombs in order to maintain accountability. “Some families have relo-cated their ancestors from the

munitions storage area, those that have chosen not to still remain within the munitions storage area,” said Battle. “Each year during Shimi, our obliga-tion is to ensure their tradition lives on and they can see their ancestors.” Aft er a brief ceremony that included prayers, the locals paid their respect to their ancestors by off ering food, drinks and incense. Usually they burn the incense and paper representing money for the deceased to use during the coming year, but since munitions storage does not allow open fl ames for safety reasons, they had to omit that part of the ceremony. Th e occasion is less solemn than one would expect. Chil-dren could be seen laughing and playing while the adults shared food and drink strengthening their family ties. “I have been coming on base to pay respects to my ancestors for the last fi ve years,” said local national Uehara. “Th is is a great event, because the whole family comes together to do this.” In Okinawa, Shimi is usually observed on a Sunday between the fi rst week in April and the fi rst week in May at the family’s discretion. On some outer islands of the prefecture, Shimi is still observed on the Lunar New Year.

Local nationals visit family tombs in munitions storage area

(U.S. Air Force photos by Staff Sgt. Marcus Morris)

Local nationals and their families pray at their family tomb in observance of Shimi at the munitions storage area at Kadena Air Base, April 12.

Okinawans clear overgrown plants from the area surrounding their family tomb in preparation for Shimi at Kadena Air Base, April 12.

Documents

18th Wing conducts joint NEO exercise with U.S. Navy and Army · 2019-10-15 · early. I remember during middle school that Omegle was the next best thing on the Internet. At sleepovers