By Senior AirmanOmari Bernard18th Wing Public Affairs6/9/2015 — Stadium lights sil-houette a checkered ball as it fl ies through the air and rolls along a green fi eld. Players in jerseys race up and down a fi eld in pursuit. A player wearing a white jersey with the number nine on his back dribbles the ball. Th e ball is passed to a teammate as he is challenged, he races past and the ball is passed back. Th e defender freezes, looking for the off side fl ag from the ref-eree, now there is only one last person between number nine and the goal. 1st Lt. Aaron Zendejas, 961st Airborne Air Control Squadron air battle manager, shoots and scores. Th e 27-year-old mid fi elder has been in love with soccer since childhood. “I have been playing soccer since I was 2 feet tall,” said Ze-ndejas. “As soon as I could walk I had a ball at my feet.” Zendejas’ passion for the game began in Germany. In fact, he was born there and as a military brat he would play with his three brothers. “Ever since I was a kid I al-ways had people to play with and against,” he continued. “We have a really tight family unit being a military family. I attribute a lot of my soccer to that.” While living there he was constantly surrounded by the national sport. It was a family

aff air, his mother played it and his father coached, even though he was more into football. Zendejas said, “Soccer wasn’t a thing in his mind until my mom forced him to coach us as kids. I guess I just learned from all my coaches growing up.” As Zendejas grew up, so did his skills. He would go onto to play in the Olympic Develop-ment Program, other middle school clubs and even at Kadena High School from 2002 - 2006. Aft er he graduated he went on to play at the college level for Northern Illinois University. “It’s one of the top 25 division one schools in Chicago,” Zendejas explained. “I had a blast there.” Aft er graduation, Zendejas found work like most of his peers. As time at his job progressed, he yearned for two things; to give back to his country and to play the game he loved. “I wanted to do something with my time, my youth and my leadership,” he said. “Something that was bigger than me, so I started looking at the military. I got my offi cer training school package together, submitted it and never looked back.” While waiting for the go-ahead to go to work for the Air Force, an opportunity of a lifetime appeared. Th e Chicago Fire, a men’s professional soccer team, were hosting tryouts. Th is was his chance to play profes-sional soccer. Unfortunately, it ended because of an injury. At OTS, Zendejas made close

friends who had similar interests in soccer. One of those was 1st Lt. Andrew Stokes, 961 AACS air weapons offi cer. Together they graduated in June 2012. “On and off the fi eld, two words come to mind to describe Lt. Zendejas’ work ethic: dedica-tion and perseverance,” Stokes explained. “When he doesn’t know the answer he will work until he fi nds one. Th en he will work until he fi nds the perfect answer. If he fails at something, he quickly dusts himself off and makes sure the same failure never happens again.” Zendejas’ dedication on the fi eld is mirrored in his drive to be the best at execution and strategy at work. Stokes explained how soccer relates to their work. “On the jet this means making the perfect radio call at the right time to drive the best weapons employment tactics,” Stokes said. “On the fi eld, it means making the perfect pass or shot while fi tting all players’ strengths and weakness into the best team possible.” Zendejas said air combat control is like playing soccer. “A lot of what we do is about staying ahead of the timeline,” he said. “A good soccer player has to think four or fi ve passes ahead of the game to be eff ective. It defi -nitely helps with your teamwork. Like soccer, we need everyone on that jet working as one to make our mission successful.”

Vermont Air National Guard 158th Fighter Wing prepares for Kadena deployment

SEE SOCCER, PAGE 3 SEE HEAT CONDITIONS, PAGE 2

Taking the Field

Heat conditions:The breakdown for Okinawa-based service members, families

(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari Bernard)

^1st Lt. Aaron Zendejas, 961st Airborne Air Control Squadron air battle manager and mid-fi elder, shoots for a goal during an intramural soccer match at the Risner Fitness Center on Kadena Air Base, June 2. Zendejas played soccer for Kadena High School from 2002 to 2006 and also played for Northern Illinois University.

By Airman 1st Class Zackary A. Henry18th Wing Public Affairs6/11/2015 — On the sunny island of Okinawa, its inhabi-tants get to experience beach-es, great hiking or even scuba diving.

However, along with the beautiful scenery Okinawa is oft en home to fl ash fl oods, ty-phoons and what has been ris-ing as the summer months take hold, the heat. To try and help keep the people of Kadena safe during

By 18th WingPublic Affairs6/9/2015 — Airmen from the 158th Fighter Wing in Burling-ton, Vermont, will deploy this month in support of the Pacifi c Command Th eater Security Package. Approximately 150 per-sonnel and 10 F-16 Fighting Falcons are set to deploy to the 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa. Th e TSP deploy-ment is designed to provide the PACOM region with forces ca-pable of a variety of operations, including disaster relief, global situational awareness, combat-ing piracy, active defense and power projection. Air Combat Command rou-tinely deploys fi ghter aircraft to the region to provide U.S. Pa-cifi c Command and Pacifi c Air Forces with Th eater Security Packages, which help maintain a deterrent against threats to regional security and stability. Movement of U.S. Air Force TSPs into the region has been a routine and integral part of U.S. Pacifi c Command’s force posture since March 2004. Th is TSP demonstrates the continuing U.S. commitment to stability and security in the region and shows our commit-

ment to the U.S.-Japan alliance and the defense of Japan. According to Col. Patrick Guinee, 158th Fighter Wing commander, the Airmen of the 158th are ready and well-trained for this deployment. “Th e Green Mountain Boys are both prepared and excited to help America fulfi ll its charge in the Asia-Pacifi c theater of operations,” Guinee said. “Our Airmen are always ready and well-trained to engage in any state or federal mission when called.” Lt. Col. Daniel Finnegan, 134th Fighter Squadron com-mander, will lead the deployed members of the 158th. “I am proud to lead this incredible team of Airmen on a mission that gives us the oppor-tunity to integrate with joint and international forces,” Finnegan said. “I have great confi dence in the capabilities of the men and women of the Vermont National Guard in completing another successful mission.”

J U N E 1 2 , 2 0 1 52 S A M U R A I G A T E

the peak heat, the 18th Aerospace Medicine Squadron bioenvironmental engineering fl ight keeps up to date with the current wet bulb globe temperature. “Th e WBGT is a temperature-measuring scale that takes into account air temperature, mean radiant tem-perature, air speed and absolute humidity,” said Senior Airman Aaron Rogers, 18th AMDS bioenvironmental engineering technician. “Based on those readings there is an assigned heat category and an associated fl ag color to signify those categories.” Th e categories for the diff erent heat conditions are as follows:Category one is a WBGT reading of at least 78 degrees Fahrenheit but no higher than 81.9 de-grees. This category is associated with a white fl ag.Category two is a WBGT reading of at least 82 de-grees Fahrenheit but no higher than 84.9 degrees. This category is associated with a green fl ag.

Category three is a WBGT reading of at least 85 degrees Fahrenheit but no higher than 87.9 de-grees. This category is associated with a yellow fl ag.Category four is a WBGT reading of at least 88 degrees Fahrenheit but no higher than 89.9 de-grees. This category is associated with a red fl ag.Category fi ve is a WBGT reading of at least 90 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. This category is associated with a black fl ag.

“As the Airmen, soldiers, sailors, Marines and their families spend more time in the sun the risk for heat re-

lated injuries rise,” said Tech. Sgt. Adrienne Tarin-Yatco, 18th AMSD occupational health NCO in charge. “Along with the heat, the need to hydrate also increases.” Th ese heat conditions can greatly aff ect work intensity as well. Due to the heat, tasks that are normally simple can become dangerous or even deadly without the prop-er work/rest cycle and hydration. “At Kadena it gets hot, people need to stay hydrated because the higher the WBGT reading the more likely a heat-related injury can occur,” said Tarin-Yatco. “Places like the child development center, Risner Fitness Center and the maintenance section all use the fl ag conditions to make decisions related to the heat.” Always check the current fl ag condition before go-ing outside for any workouts or activities that can have adverse eff ects in high heat. For more information or for guidance on training re-quirements, contact the Bioenvironmental Engineering Flight at 634-4752.

HEAT CONDITIONS FROM PAGE 1

All around the world LGBT pride is oft en celebrated with parties, parades, fun, and festivities.

Th e LGBT community and its allies come together in support of equality, freedom, and the movement for civil rights. Nowadays pride events are largely fun-fi lled, colorful, recreational functions, but what some don’t know is that the fi rst LGBT pride demonstration was actually in-spired by a riot, displaying resistance to discrimination, and forward movement in the struggle toward liberation and fair treatment. In 1969, in New York’s Greenwich Village, the police raided a gay bar, harassing and arresting many of the patrons, simply for being patrons, as being openly gay was prohibited in many places like New York City. Th ese raids were common, but on this particular evening, the crowd fought back, leading to an intense and violent struggle between the police and the public who were fi ghting for their rights. Th e confrontation, known as the Stonewall Riots, lasted for days, leading to the formation of collectives and organizations united in the fi ght for their right to simply exist in public spaces without being persecuted or attacked. Th is struggle has existed and continues to exist within many systems, institutions, and environ-ments, including the United States military. Aft er years of forced silence and hiding, LGBT ser-vice members are fi nally able to serve openly, thanks to the repeal of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) policy in 2011. Th e policy change was a step forward in creating a safe and sup-portive environment for all service members to be their authentic selves as they work toward their mission. Some have questioned the necessity or the purpose of the repeal, suggesting that one’s sexual orientation or romantic life may not be important or appropriate to share in the workplace in any event. Th is argument would be valid if the DADT policy was

enforced for all members of the U.S. military, but it only directly impacted LGBT members, implying a sense of deviance or “otherness” to members of that community. Moreover, it associated LGBT identities with shame, secrecy, and dishonor, forcing these service men and women to keep parts of themselves invisi-ble and unrecognized. Th ese types of practices can be very harmful, as they infl uence stigma, internalized homophobia and self-hate, and various mental health issues. Th ough things are changing, as new policies and practices have been implemented to reverse and reduce the harm done to LGBT communities by prior discriminatory actions, considerable eff ort remains to encourage respect and pride for all identities. Oft en, societal norms and expectations cloud our ideas of what gender, gender expression, and sexuality should be, diminishing our ability to see what actually is, oft en leading to rude assump-tions and insolence. For example, some want/expect all men to be masculine, for women to be sweet and submissive, for the spouse of a married person to be of the opposite sex, or for young boys to only play with

trucks and actions fi gures (“boy toys”). In reality there are so many varia-tions across and between gender expression and sexual orientation that it is impossible to box these identities into our own narrow limitations of what someone is supposed to do or should be. Some women are more tough than sweet, some young boys prefer the color pink and fl owers and some men are married to men. Th e point is that there are spectrums/continuums of gender, ex-pression, and sexuality that we all fall somewhere on — there is no “one size fi ts all.” Moreover, no one should be shunned or discriminated against because they do not fall on the spectrum where someone else thinks they should. Th is year, we celebrate its 2nd annual LGBT Pride month, with the theme “Be You. Be Proud,” capturing the necessity of freedom and openness for truth. We all deserve the space to be our-selves, and to be seen and celebrated. Th e world provides us with enough space, and hopefully our minds do too, for all identities to develop and exist without consequence or fear. Our diff er-ences are all uniquely beautiful and worthy of love. We also unite across these diff erences, as they allow us to learn from each other, build with one another, and create shared experiences to-gether. Th is year’s LGBT pride committee encourages everyone to “Be you. Be Proud” while encourag-ing and supporting your fellow airmen, friends, and family members to do the same. Th e free-dom to exist fully and authentically is a basic human right, which we should all practice for our-selves and uphold for those around us. We hope everyone of all ages, sexual orientations, genders, cultures, and other backgrounds will join us in practicing self-love, acceptance, and freedom, while celebrating each other with pride and unity. For more information on 2015 LGBT Pride month events on Okinawa, please contact the 18 WG/EO at 634-2571.

LGBT Pride month – ‘Be You. Be Proud’Commentary by Aja Trotter

Military Spouse

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 Email to info@samuraigate.jp

Offi cial Kadena Air Base inquiries: 18wg.papublicaffairs@us.af.mil DSN:634-3813

J U N E 1 2 , 2 0 1 5 S A M U R A I G A T E 3

By Tim Flack18th Wing Public Affairs6/10/2015 — Nearly 200 women from the military community across Okinawa gathered in the Kadena Offi cer’s Club ear-lier this month for Special Delivery Baby Showers, co-hosted by the USO and the What to Expect Foundation. Heidi Murkoff , author of the New York Times bestselling “What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” series of books, served as guest speaker for the June 3-4 showers. Th is was Murkoff ’s third trip to Okina-wa, and she said she feels a strong connec-tion with military moms, even though she doesn’t come from a military family. “Th e farther away moms are from their family and friends, the more they need this,” Murkoff said. “I think the biggest challenge is being so far from your network of sup-port that you normally would turn to.” She said pregnancy is never easy, but being pregnant so far from home is expo-nentially more diffi cult. “We all need help, we all need support, we all need someone to vent to, a shoul-der to cry on and someone to share all of those fi rsts with,” she said. “And a hug - everyone needs a hug.” She said that’s why an event like the Special Delivery shower is so important

at an overseas location where it’s too easy for a woman to isolate herself, especially if her spouse is deployed. “I think more than anything else, when we have these showers, it’s about bringing moms together,” Murkoff said. “Because motherhood is a sisterhood, right? And having those sisters in your community that you can count on is incredibly helpful.” Th e showers began with games and gift giveaways to help the women get to know each other. One game included guessing how many sheets of toilet paper it would take to wrap around each woman’s belly. Aft er guessing, women paired off to mea-sure with a roll of paper. Th e mom-to-be with the closest guess at each table re-ceived an extra prize raffl e ticket. Murkoff invited the women to ask as many questions as they wanted, assuring them that no subject was off the table. She broke the ice by asking how many women in the room were carrying “typhoon ba-bies,” joking that pregnancies tend to occur aft er couples are locked in the house togeth-er during the storms with nothing to do. One of the attendees, Kasie Krage, said she really enjoyed the event. “I love this, it’s such a good idea,” she said of gathering the women for the event. “It does make you feel like you have a sup-

port system.” She said she felt comfortable talking with the women at her table, especially since four of them were all due the same week later this summer. As the women interacted and played the games, Murkoff walked through the room

meeting and chatting with every table. “Th e gift s are great, the raffl e prizes are awesome, but the single-most important part of the shower is to make those con-nections with other moms,” she said. “No-body gets it like another mom, and no-body gets it like another military mom.”

While stationed here, Zendejas never missed an opportunity to continue playing the game he loved. “I promised myself that I would fi nd a way to play and be around the game even if I joined the Air Force,” Zendejas said. And he did. Zendejas joined

the U.S. Air Force Men’s Soccer Team in 2015. “Th is Air Force Soccer Team has been a huge dream of mine since I joined,” he continued. In order to join the team, forms were completed, references made and packages were submitted to the coaches for review. Th e appli-cation to the team is open to both

enlisted and offi cers throughout the entire Air Force. Out of these, coaches can only select 38 appli-cants to attend the three week camp leading up to the All Armed Forces Soccer Tournament. From day one of arrival cuts are made. Only the best from each service survive. “You’re hanging on for dear

life,” Zendejas explained. “You train three sessions a day, eat to-gether— do everything together.” As the tournament arrived, the best 18 service members were left on each team. Th e Air Force took home the silver med-al with a 1-0 loss to the Army, who took the gold medal in the championship match.

“Th e Army had a really good team,” said Zendejas. “Th ey threw everything they had at us and found a way to win. Th at being said, I still think it was our tournament to win and before it started I had the taste for gold in my mouth. But maybe I was tasting it for next year, because I will be back.”

SOCCER FROM PAGE 1

USO Baby Shower delivers for Okinawa military community

(U.S. Air Force photo by Tim Flack)

^Heidi Murkoff, author of the New York Times bestselling “What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” series of books, talks with expectant mothers during a Special Delivery Baby Shower June 3, on Kadena Air Base. The USO and Murkoff’s “What to Expect Foundation” co-hosted two showers as a way to help women in the military community build a stronger support network.

J U N E 1 2 , 2 0 1 54 S A M U R A I G A T E

200 Kadena Airmen selected for promotion to technical sergeant

ACOSTA, JOHN, 18th Maintenance GroupADAMS, DESMAN, 320th Special Tactics SquadronANDERSON, CHRISTOPH, 353rd Special Operations Support SquadronANGELES, ROMMEL, 18th Medical Support SquadronARCE, JOSEAN, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronBARB, ADAM, 18th Dental SquadronBAZE, SHANE, 18th Civil Engineer SquadronBEAS, ALFRED, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronBECKER, JONATHAN, 18th Medical Operations SquadronBERRY, SEDALE, 18th Security Forces SquadronBLAIR, KYLE, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronBOLLINGER, BRETT, 18th Special Operations SquadronBOWERS, ADAM, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronBRACKETT, DAVID, 18th Operations Support SquadronBRAXTON, KOEAL, 18th Security Forces SquadronBRUBAKER, JOSHUA, 18th Aeromedical Evacuation SquadronBUENO, BERNARD, 67th Fighter SquadronBUTTS, JOSHUA, 909th Air Refueling SquadronCAMINO, NICHOLAS, 1st Special Operations SquadronCAMPBELL, VIRGIL, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronCANFIELD, MICHAEL, 18th Medical Operations SquadronCARDIN, NICHOLAS, 18th Force Support SquadronCARLSON, SHANNON, 18th Aeromedical Evacuation SquadronCASAREZ, RICHARD, 18th Maintenance GroupCASTRO, LEMUS, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronCHAN, DOMDITER, 18th Operations Support SquadronCLARK, PATRICK, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronCONWAY, DWAYNE, 353rd Special Operations GroupCRISTOBAL, ERICKSON, 18th Aeromedical Evacuation SquadronCROWDER, ANDREW, 17th Special Operations SquadronDAUGHERTY, MICHAEL, 18th Maintenance GroupDAVENPORT, MATTHEW, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronDAVIS, CHRISTOPHER, 18th Civil Engineer SquadronDEGENHARDT, JOSHUA, 320th Special Tactics SquadronDEH KOMI, MAWUSSI, 18th Munitions SquadronDEPRINZIO, TRAVIS, 18th Civil Engineer SquadronDESILUS, DEROLD, 18th Munitions SquadronDILLARD, JOHN, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronDOS, SHANNON, 18th Communications SquadronDOS, WILLIAM C, 390th Intelligence SquadronDUCOTE, LAUREN, 961st Airborne Air Control SquadronDUNCAN, SCOTT, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronDUNGAN, JOSHUA, 18th Communications SquadronDUREMDEZ AIMEE LIE, 18th Communications SquadronDUVALL PAUL, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronDUVALL TRACY, 961st Airborne Air Control SquadronEBERT RICHARD, 18th Communications SquadronESTRADA CARRERAS, 18th Communications SquadronEVANGELISTA, ANTONI, 372 Training SquadronFATTORUSSO, JOSHUA, 18th Special Operations SquadronFLEMING, FRANCESCA, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronFLEMING, GEORGE III, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronFLORES, TULLIS, 18th WingGARCIA, JESUS ABRAH, 33rd Rescue SquadronGARNER, RICHARD AUG, 733 Air Mobility SquadronGASSMAN, GARY MICHA, 961st Airborne Air Control SquadronGIBBAR, ERIC STEVEN, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronGO, FRANCIS, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronGODDARD, JOSEPH, 33rd Rescue SquadronGORHAM, BEVERLY ANN, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronGRANT, NICANOR G, 733rd Air Mobility SquadronGUERRERO, SERGIO, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronGUIDRY, THADDEUS A, 18th Security Forces SquadronGUNTER, SHANE BRADL, 961st Airborne Air Control SquadronHAHN, JEFFREY RICHA, 18th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron

HARLAND, TRENT CORB, 18th Communications SquadronHARRIS, KEITH, 18th Operations Support SquadronHATCH, JONATHAN EDW, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronHENRIE, TRAVIS RAND, 353rd Special Operations Support SquadronHERNANDEZ, DULCELY, 18th Communications SquadronHERNANDEZ, SAMUEL, 320th Special Tactics SquadronHOLLEY, CASSIE, 18th Operations Support SquadronHOLLEY, RASHAD, 67th Fighter SquadronHOOFMAN, CURTIS, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronHUBBARD, NICHOLAS, 18th Aerospace Medicine SquadronHUGHES, HEATHER, 18th WingHUGIE, JAMAR, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronIRBY, JAMES, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronIRWIN, RICHARD, 18th Maintenance GroupIZADI, BABAC, 33rd Rescue SquadronJACKSON, SERGIO, 18th Civil Engineer SquadronJOHNSON, JAMIE, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronJOHNSON, JIMMIE, 18th WingJONES, DAVID, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronJONES, KRISTEN, 18th Maintenance GroupKABAT, JASON, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronKAID, ASHLEY, 18th Security Forces SquadronKEETER, AARON, 18th Civil Engineer SquadronKNIGHT, MARIO, 18th Civil Engineer SquadronKWAN, JONES, 18th Operations GroupLANDRY, BRIAN, 733rd Air Mobility SquadronLEBLANC, JOSEPH, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronLEON, CHRISTOPHER, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronLEONOR, JOEL, 18th Communications SquadronLEPELLETIER, 733rd Air Mobility SquadronLEWELLEN, THOMAS, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronLEWIS, JAMES, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronLONG, DONALD, 390th Intelligence SquadronLONG, LUKE, 18th Communications SquadronLOPEZ, SARAH, 18th Aeromedical Evacuation SquadronLOZANO, JAN, 18th Civil Engineer SquadronMANEE, JACOB, 18th Communications SquadronMANN, TAMEKA, 18th Comptroller SquadronMAQUILON, CHRISTOPH, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronMARSHALL, AMBER, 18th Comptroller SquadronMARTIN, JARED, 18th Security Forces SquadronMARTIN, MARCUS, 18th Operations Support SquadronMARTINEZ, LAWRENCE, 320th Special Tactics SquadronMASON, JAMES, 353rd Special Operations Support SquadronMCDANIEL, REBECCA, 390th Intelligence SquadronMCKENNEY, BRANDON, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronMCNEESE, JUSTIN, 18th WingMERCADO, DEAN, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronMILLER, DANIEL, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronMILLER, DEVON, 733 Air Mobility SquadronMILLER, JAMES, 18th Maintenance GroupMONTANARO, AMBER, 18th Medical Support SquadronMOORE, CHRISTOPHER, 18th Security Forces SquadronMOORE, MICHAEL, 18th Munitions SquadronMORRISON, MATTHEW, 82nd Reconnaissance SquadronMOTEN, JIMMY, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronMURPHY, NATHAN, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronMYERS, SHEENA, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronNG, LAWRENCE, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronNORDHUES, PAUL, 961st Airborne Air Control SquadronOGBONNAYA, BRIAN, 18th Civil Engineer SquadronOKONEK, KARL, 18th Maintenance GroupOLES, CHRISTOPHER, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronPAEZ, PATRICK, Logistics Readiness SquadronPALMER, CREWS, 18th Civil Engineer SquadronPANNELL, MARK, Logistics Readiness SquadronPARKS, ERIC, 18th Dental SquadronPARRELLA, DINO, 718th Civil Engineer SquadronPAUL, DANIEL, 18th Civil Engineer SquadronPEKINS, JEREMY, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronPENA, AGNES, 18th Force Support SquadronPEREZ, OYOLA, 18th WingPEREZ, RAIKO, 18th Operations Support SquadronPETTY, JUSTIN, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronPFAFF, JOEL, 353rd Special Operations Support SquadronPLATA, ERIC, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronPROVENCAL, CHRISTOPHER, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron

QUITANO, JOSEPH, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronREECE, CHRISTOPHER, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronREED, TYE, 18th Civil Engineer SquadronREYES, RAUL, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronROBINSON, KRISTY, 18th Operations Support SquadronROGERS, JARED, 18th WingSADLER, JEFFREY, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronSALANGSANG, ALBERT, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSAMS, OCTAVIOUS, 18th Operations Support SquadronSANDOVAL, BRYEN, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSARMIENTO, CARLOS, 320th Special TacticsSCHEERER, STEPHANIE, 18th Operations Support SquadronSCHMIDEKE, JESSE, 733rd Air Mobility SquadronSELMON, STEPHANIE, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronSHIELDS, JOSHUA, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronSHIELDS, RICARDO, 18th Medical Operations SquadronSHUPE, ADAM, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSHUTTLESWORTH, BRANDON, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSIMMONS, WILLIAM, 18th Communications SquadronSKINNER, ALEXANDER, 18th Operations Support SquadronSMART, KYLE STEVEN, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronSMITH, JAMES, 18th Maintenance GroupSMITH, MURIEL, 320th Special Tactics SquadronSMITHEE, JAYME, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronSNODGRASS, JERRET, 18th Security Forces SquadronSORENSEN, WADE, 390th Intelligence SquadronSOTO, KELLY, 43rd Intelligence SquadronST CLAIR, JORDAN, 31st Rescue SquadronSTANGRET, KEAGAN, 18th Operations SquadronSTEARNS, DANIEL, 1st Special Operations SquadronSTEIER, ZACHARIAH, 353rd Special Operations Support SquadronSTEWART, LARRA, Air Force Legal Operations AgencySTEWART, SAMUEL, 82nd Reconnaissance SquadronSTOCKMANN, MICHAEL, 18th Equipment Management SquadronSTORAKO, KYLE, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronSUTTON, CALEB, 390th Intelligence SquadronSWAIM, MATTHEW, 353 Special Operations SquadronTANNER, DEREK, 18th Communications SquadronTAYLOR, MARQUIS, 18th Security Forces SquadronTAYLOR, MATTHEW, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronTAYLOR, WILLIAM, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronTENEBRUSO, JOSEPH, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronTHOMAS, DARRELL, 353rd Special Operations Support SquadronTHOMAS, MARIE, 18th Dental SquadronTHOMPSON, MATTHEW, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronTIPTON, QUINN, 718th Civil Engineer SquadronTITE, JUSTIN, 33rd Rescue SquadronTORRENCE, BRITTANY, 18th WingTRICE, VICTORIA, 18th WingTROSPER, BRIAN, 961st Airborne Air Control SquadronTROSPER, NATALIE, 961st Airborne Air Control SquadronVALLEJO, MICHAEL, 18th Civil Engineer SquadronWAGNER, RONALD, 18th Force Support SquadronWEHRLY, JEREMY, 18th Security Forces SquadronWELLS, JOSEPH, 18th Contracting SquadronWHITE, JOSEPH, 18th Security Forces SquadronWILLIAMS, RONALD, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronWILLIAMS, SOPHIA, 18th Maintenance GroupWILSON, DON, 18th Logistics readiness SquadronWILSON, THOMAS, 18th Security Forces SquadronYOUCHNIK, STEVEN, 18th Civil Engineer SquadronZEDELL, DANIEL, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronZIMMERLY, JASON, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronZITTERICH, BRANDON, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance Squadron

By Senior Airman Omari Bernard6/10/2015 — More than 200 of Kadena’s promotion-el-igible staff sergeants were selected to become technical sergeants following the Air Force Personnel Center’s release Tuesday night. Th e Air Force selected 8,446 staff sergeants for pro-motion to technical sergeant, offi cials announced June 9. Selectees represent 23.55 percent of the 35,863 eligible. Congratulations to the following members:

To see the selection list, go to the Air Force Portal and select the promotion link, or go to myPers and select “Any” from the drop-down search menu and enter “Active Duty: Enlisted Promotions Home Page” in the search window. Scroll down to “Promotion Selects and Statistics.”

J U N E 1 2 , 2 0 1 5 S A M U R A I G A T E 5

By Tim Flack18th Wing Public Affairs6/10/2015 - OKINAWA CITY — Volunteers with Okinawa Outreach pride themselves on their hard work and on the fact that no challenge is too big. Th e volunteers defi nitely surprised the man who lined up a recent project for them during a two-hour visit to an elderly care facility in Okina-wa City May 30. Katsuhiko Yamashiro, facility manager at Care-house Hibiscus, said he was amazed at how quick-ly the 10 volunteers plowed

through the manual labor, cleaning foliage, cutting grass, pulling weeds and stuffi ng garbage bags. When Yamashiro said that it would be nice if the team could tackle cutting down a 15-foot banana tree during a future visit when they had bet-ter tools for the job, the volun-teers just laughed. Using small hand-saws, brute strength and a pick, they made quick work of the old tree. “I was impressed that the volunteers were so happy and smiling while doing such demanding manual labor,”

Yamashiro said. “It was also heartwarming to see family members involved in that eff ort.” Okinawa Outreach, a com-mittee belonging to Kadena Air Base’s Top 3 organization, was formed to provide op-portunities for Team Kadena involvement in the Okinawan community. Master Sgt. Steven Whitley, a Top 3 member who orga-nized the May 30 volunteer ef-forts, said people like to be in-volved for a variety of reasons. Whitley said, “Some come because of how it makes them feel ... the sense of giving back to a community that wel-comed them. Others come out to help serve a cause, whether it’s working with children or providing food for the needy. “Most of all though, it’s what our Airmen, sailors, and soldiers are accustomed to. We give our time and eff ort to things we care about and that reach is long,” Whitley said. “We are here for the better-ment of our communities.” Whitley said Okinawa Outreach volunteers provide a huge benefi t to the off -base organizations they work with. “Okinawa Outreach always comes out in force and tackles projects and tasks that may

take months to fi nish other-wise,” he said. Yamashiro agreed, saying the May 30 project was a per-fect example of that. “Th e area where volunteers cleared this time was an area we can rarely touch normally because of our time restraints and limited manpower,” Ya-mashiro said. Whitley also stressed the volunteers take a lot away from working with local com-munities. “Th ey get to see, talk to, work with, and interact with local groups and communities that they might not otherwise,” Whitley said. “You get a better appreciation for being in Japan. On top of that you get to build connections and friendships that will last well beyond the time you leave Japan.” Whitley said that Okina-wa Outreach off ers plenty of volunteer opportunities for all members of the commu-nity. He said those wishing to participate can visit https://www.facebook.com/Oki-nawaOutreach. “I encourage everyone who wants to a part of the local community to ‘reach’ out and get involved,” he said. “We lit-erally have something for ev-eryone.”

Kadena’s Okinawa Outreach tackles tough volunteer project

(Courtesy photo by Master Sgt. Steven Whitley)

^Okinawa Outreach volunteers cut down a banana tree during a May 30, clean-up session at Care-house Hibiscus in Okinawa City. Okinawa Outreach, a committee belonging to Kadena Air Base’s Top 3 organization, was formed to provide opportunities for Team Kadena involvement in the Okinawan community.

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Elevator SafetyHousing Maintenance Service Call regular hours of operation for submitting all work orders: 0630-2330 Sunday-Saturday, 634-4663 (HOME), option 6. (Must be dialed through base operator 098-938-1111)

Between the hours of 2330-0630 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, security, and area-wide utility outages) (Must be dialed through base operator 098-938-1111)

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.

(U.S. Air Force photos by Naoto Anazawa)

Col. Debra Lovette, 18th Mission Support Group commander, briefs members of the Forum 21 class 2015 about Kadena’s mission during their visit to Kadena Air Base, June 3. The purpose of the visit is to deepen their understanding of the Japan - U.S. cooperative relationship and United States Forces, Japan. This opportunity will further strengthen the cooperative tie between Japan and the U.S. as the visitors are key personnel in shaping public opinion in Japan’s private and public sectors.

^Col. Debra Lovette, 18th Mission Support Group commander, and members of the Forum 21 class 2015 pose for a group photo in front of the 18th Wing building during their visit to Kadena Air Base, June 3. The 18th Wing’s goal is to help promote the understanding of U.S. national interests associated with the U.S. - Japan alliance, stationing forces in Japan and ensuring peace and stability in the region.

FORUM 21 visits Kadena for cooperative relationship

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More than 280 Kadena Airmen graduate during CCAF ceremony

Pitsenbarger Award winners:Staff Sgt. Timothy Amen, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronStaff Sgt. Jolene Bilan, 18th Comptroller SquadronStaff Sgt. James Childs, 733rd Air Mobility SquadronStaff Sgt. Eugenio Redmond, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance Squadron

CCAF graduates:Staff Sgt. Marvin Ablao, USAF School of Aerospace Medicine Det. 3Staff Sgt. Carlos Aheran Clemente, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. Christopher Alexander, 390th Intelligence SquadronStaff Sgt. Abraham Almonte, 372nd Training Squadron Det. 15Tech. Sgt. Valerie Anthony, 18th Wing Command PostSenior Airman Ashley Arnold, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronStaff Sgt. Brian Ayres, 31st Rescue SquadronStaff Sgt. Christopher Bagan, 366th Component Maintenance SquadronMaster Sgt. Jason Barker, 18th WingTech. Sgt. Olivia Barnes, 18th Wing Command PostSenior Airman Jennifer Barnett, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronAirman 1st Class David Baughman, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronStaff Sgt. Shane Baze, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronSenior Airman Wesley Bear, 353rd Special Operations Support SquadronStaff Sgt. Andrew Belle, 353rd Special Operations Support SquadronStaff Sgt. Sefi atu Bello, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. Harvey Betancourt, 18th Communications SquadronTech. Sgt. Sara Bishop, 18th Wing Public AffairsTech. Sgt. Kyle Bookhardt, 18th Contracting SquadronStaff Sgt. Lawrence Boring, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronTech. Sgt. Andrew Bowman, 726th Air Mobility SquadronTech. Sgt. Shannon Bowman, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. James Branch, 733rd Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Torris Brown, 18th Medical Support SquadronStaff Sgt. Joshua Burwell, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Leo Busch, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Meagan Bustillo, 353rd Special Operations GroupSenior Airman Jonathan Bynes, 18th Communications SquadronStaff Sgt. Shannon Carlson, 18th Communications SquadronStaff Sgt. Richard Casarez, 18th Maintenance GroupMaster Sgt. Brandon Chandler, 733rd Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Larson Chun, 18th Operations Support SquadronMaster Sgt. Raymond Clark, 18th Force Support SquadronMaster Sgt. Dawnique Coles, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronAirman 1st Class Jared Cones, 18th Communications SquadronTech. Sgt. Heather Consola, 18th Contracting SquadronStaff Sgt. George Corsaut III, 18th Communications SquadronStaff Sgt. Aaron Coy, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Nathan Cross, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronMaster Sgt. Mark Cruz, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronsMaster Sgt. Tony Cuevas, 509th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Benjamin Darr, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Matthew Davenport, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Jabrielle Joy David, 18th Medical Support SquadronStaff Sgt. Gene Davila, 18th Aerospace Medicine SquadronSenior Airman Dustin Dayvolt, 18th Aerospace Medicine SquadronTech. Sgt. Gary Dennis Jr., 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronMaster Sgt. Brian Dieckmann, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. Elizabeth Douglas, 18th Medical GroupMaster Sgt. David Drake, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Jason Duckett, 912th Air Refueling SquadronStaff Sgt. Aimee Liezsl Duremdez, 18th Communications SquadronSenior Airman Jason Dwyer, 18th Communications SquadronStaff Sgt. Matthew Edwards, 18th Security Forces SquadronStaff Sgt. Sean Eggleston, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronStaff Sgt. Maeson Elleman, 18th Wing Public AffairsTech. Sgt. Grant Ellis, 372nd Training Squadron Det. 15Staff Sgt. Ericka Endara Cedeno, 18th Force Support SquadronStaff Sgt. Pedro Estrada Carreras, 18th Communications SquadronMaster Sgt. Justin Ferris, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. Joshua Fetherland, 82nd Reconnaissance SquadronStaff Sgt. Nicole Finnegan, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronTech. Sgt. Thomas Fleming II, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Edrianne Flores Tullis, 18th Wing LegalStaff Sgt. Euforcina Font, 909th Air Refueling SquadronMaster Sgt. Troy Forbes, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronStaff Sgt. Brian Foxworth, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronStaff Sgt. David Freeman, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronAirman 1st Class Scott Fremming, 18th Wing Public AffairsSenior Airman David Frey, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronSenior Airman Cody Frisbie, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Ricky Froneberger II, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronStaff Sgt. Matthew Fullmer, 320th Special Tactics SquadronStaff Sgt. Daniel Galacgac, 18th Dental SquadronStaff Sgt. Jesus Garcia, 33rd Rescue SquadronSenior Airman Katherine Gay, 18th Dental SquadronSenior Airman Joshua Geissler, 353rd Special Operations GroupSenior Airman Andrew Georgeff, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Richard Gere, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronSenior Airman Joshua Germano, 18th Communications Squadron

Staff Sgt. Steven Gipson II, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronMaster Sgt. Timothy Gobble, 733rd Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Joaquin Gonzalez, 18th Wing Command PostStaff Sgt. Jared Gordon, 352nd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Beverly Gorham, 18th Mission Support GroupSenior Airman Ryan Greenoe, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Heather Grigg, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronStaff Sgt. Marie Groover, 18th Medical Operations SquadronTech. Sgt. David Gustafson, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Cassandra Guzman, 18th Medical Support SquadronTech. Sgt. Jeremy Hall, 909th Air Refueling SquadronMaster Sgt. Andrew Hallead, 18th Security Forces SquadronStaff Sgt. Emad Hamedeyyeh, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Mason Harney, 18th Contracting SquadronStaff Sgt. Darren Harris Jr., 18th Security Forces SquadronStaff Sgt. Craig Harrison, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Jessica Harrod, 18th Force Support SquadronSenior Airman Kaniwar Hasan, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Jonathan Hatch, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronSenior Airman Candice Haynes, 18th Security Forces SquadronSenior Airman Ashley Heaton, 18th Communications SquadronMaster Sgt. Sandie Hedge, 353rd Special Operations Support SquadronTech. Sgt. Christopher Henderson, 390th Intelligence SquadronStaff Sgt. Adrian Henry, 18th Medical Support SquadronTech. Sgt. Carlos Hernandez, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronStaff Sgt. Edward Hernandez, Air Postal Squadron Det. 3Staff Sgt. Raul Hernandez, 91st Missile Security Forces SquadronTech. Sgt. Juan Hernandez, 372nd Training Squadron Det. 15Tech. Sgt. Jason Hill, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronTech. Sgt. Russell Hoffman, 18th Maintenance GroupStaff Sgt. James Honeycutt, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Amber Hopp, 315th Training SquadronStaff Sgt. Bryan Horn, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Lilly Hubbard, 18th Aeromedical Evacuation SquadronSenior Airman Jamie Hubbard, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. Robert Hunter, 18th Contracting SquadronStaff Sgt. Michael Irizarry, 4th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. Curtis Jackson Jr., 18th Component Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Mark Jenkins, 18th Contracting SquadronStaff Sgt. Clinton Jenkins, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. George Johnson, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. Brooke Johnston, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronsTech. Sgt. Mickerl Jones Jr., 18th Component Maintenance SquadronMaster Sgt. Timothy Jordan, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Renan Jorge, 18th Dental SquadronStaff Sgt. Matthew Kehn, 733rd Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Justin Keirn, 320th Special Tactics SquadronStaff Sgt. Abraham Kinlow, 733rd Aircraft Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. Jeffrey Klein, 18th Operations Support SquadronTech. Sgt. Amos Kleinwolterink, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronSenior Airman Dorothy Knox, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronTech. Sgt. Jason Korando, 18th Munitions SquadronAirman 1st Class Stephen Krueger, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Rena Labeaud Howard, 18th Medical Support SquadronSenior Airman Anthony Lambrechts, 961st Airborne Air Control SquadronStaff Sgt. Brandon Lawrence, 18th Munitions SquadronSenior Airman Logattrace Leonard, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Joseph Levit, 390th Intelligence SquadronMaster Sgt. Damon Lewis, 18th Maintenance GroupMaster Sgt. James Lilly, 18th Maintenance GroupStaff Sgt. Donald Long, 390th Intelligence SquadronSenior Airman Larry Longbrake, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronMaster Sgt. David Lukas, 18th Contracting SquadronMaster Sgt. Joseph Mageau, 18th Civil Engineer GroupStaff Sgt. James Makarzyk, 338th Combat Training SquadronTech. Sgt. Kenneth Malawey, 320th Special Tactics SquadronMaster Sgt. Jason Malin, 961st Airborne Air Control SquadronStaff Sgt. Jacob Manee, 18th Communications SquadronSenior Airman Ryan Mann, 18th Dental SquadronSenior Airman Ferdinand Manuel, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. Robert Marcy Jr., 18th Component Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Christopher Markham, 372nd Training Squadron Det. 15Master Sgt. Michael Massey, 18th Force Support SquadronTech. Sgt. Omar Massoud, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Samatha McAlevy, 390th Intelligence SquadronTech. Sgt. Tisha McConnell, 18th Maintenance GroupTech. Sgt. Julie McDonald, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronsMaster Sgt. Andre McDonald, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronSenior Airman Kelsey McDonnell, 18th Munitions SquadronTech. Sgt. Kyla McKnight, 48th Contracting SquadronStaff Sgt. Danielle Meadows, 366th Medical Operations SquadronMaster Sgt. John Medcalf, 18th Operations Support SquadronStaff Sgt. Hernani Napoleon Medina, 20th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Corey Menhart, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Marshall Merriweather, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronStaff Sgt. Nicholas Mike, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronStaff Sgt. Lavar Mingo,18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. Ryan Moore, 17th Special Operations SquadronStaff Sgt. Marcus Morris, 18th Wing Public AffairsAirman 1st Class Dorresalyn Moses, 18th Communications SquadronTech. Sgt. Joshua Motzer, 733rd Aircraft Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. Nancy Murilloalvarez, 18th Operations Support SquadronMaster Sgt. Zachary Murphy, 8th Reconnaissance SquadronMaster Sgt. Christopher Nelson, 18th Maintenance GroupStaff Sgt. Christopher Newberry, 49th Logistics Readiness Squadron

Staff Sgt. Jason Nichols, 18th Wing PME CenterMaster Sgt. Jeremy Nixon, 18th Wing SafetyMaster Sgt. Matthew Novack, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronStaff Sgt. Alexander Nunes, 18th Maintenance GroupStaff Sgt. Timothy Odell, 353rd Special Operations Support SquadronMaster Sgt. Melissa Ohara, 18th Operations Support SquadronStaff Sgt. Demarcus Oliver, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronTech. Sgt. Matthew Ordorff, 18th Operations Support SquadronStaff Sgt. Miguel Ortizdiaz, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Andres Paredes, 18th Medical Operations SquadronStaff Sgt. Eric Parker, 18th Communications SquadronStaff Sgt. Eric Parks, 18th Dental SquadronStaff Sgt. John Parsons, 18th Security Forces SquadronStaff Sgt. Joshua Pay, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronMaster Sgt. Christopher Pearsall, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronTech. Sgt. Matthew Peay, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronStaff Sgt. Tan Pham, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Ryan Phillips, 18th Contracting SquadronTech. Sgt. Tonya Poole, 18th Maintenance GroupTech. Sgt. Teddy Poole, 18th Security Forces SquadronTech. Sgt. Clinton Postlethwait, 18th Operations Support SquadronMaster Sgt. Philip Potter Jr., 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Matthew Pressley, 18th Aeromedical Evacuation SquadronStaff Sgt. Angelica Ramirez, 18th Aeromedical Evacuation SquadronTech. Sgt. Troy Rawles, 372nd Training Squadron Det. 15Staff Sgt. Jason Reese, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronMaster Sgt. Jerry Reynolds Jr., 18th Civil Engineering SquadronSenior Airman Sherard Rhodes, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronTech. Sgt. Larrance Ritter, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronStaff Sgt. Jimmy Ritter, 18th Operations Support SquadronMaster Sgt. Kevin Roark, 58th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. James Robinson, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Matthew Rocheleau, 8th Reconnaissance SquadronStaff Sgt. Michael Rodriguez, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronStaff Sgt. Kyle Rowe, 18th Wing SafetyMaster Sgt. Fernando Ruiz, 18th Maintenance GroupSenior Airman Zachary Salyers, 18th Component Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Octavious Sams, 18th Operations Support SquadronSenior Airman Brandon Schleichert, 18th Medical Operations SquadronSenior Airman Carly Schlum, 18th Aerospace Medicine SquadronMaster Sgt. Preston Sewell Jr., 390th Intelligence SquadronStaff Sgt. Cologne Shepherd, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman William Sherrod, 18th Communications SquadronMaster Sgt. John Shipp, 733rd Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Ryan Sibley, 390th Intelligence SquadronTech. Sgt. Matthew Simpson, 718th Civil Engineering SquadronStaff Sgt. Mark Javie Simpson, 18th Comptroller SquadronSenior Airman Nathan Sinex, 18th Communications SquadronTech. Sgt. Jarod Singer, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronTech. Sgt. Kevin Smith Jr., 18th Operations Support SquadronStaff Sgt. Charles Sothikhoun, 18th Equipment Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Michael Soto, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronTech. Sgt. Kevin Spain, 18th Security Forces SquadronStaff Sgt. Keagan Stangret, 18th Operations Support SquadronTech. Sgt. Joel Steele, 733rd Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Samuel Stewart, 8th Reconnaissance SquadronSenior Airman Kenneth Stockman, 18th Communications SquadronStaff Sgt. Darnell Strawder, 8th Reconnaissance SquadronAirman 1st Class Joseph Styche, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronMaster Sgt. Paiea Suganuma, 99th Logistics Readiness SquadronTech. Sgt. Ashunta Taylor, 353rd Special Operations Support SquadronTech. Sgt. Bobbie Tenney, 18th Operations Support SquadronTech. Sgt. Kenneth Thompson III, 17th Special Operations SquadronStaff Sgt. Jawana Torres, 18th Munitions SquadronStaff Sgt. Adam Tresenrider, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Maura Trujillo, 18th Medical Operations SquadronTech. Sgt. Raynard Tsukiyama, 18th Maintenance GroupSenior Airman Desiree Tuazon, 18th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Dustin Unger, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Michael Vallejo, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronTech. Sgt. Andrew Veseth, 733rd Aircraft Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Ronald Waite, 390th Intelligence SquadronStaff Sgt. Ryan Waldbauer, 55th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Erik Waldrip, 18th Aeromedical Evacuation SquadronTech. Sgt. Deron Walker, 18th Logistics Readiness SquadronTech. Sgt. Brandon Ward, 18th Civil Engineer GroupTech. Sgt. William Warrior, 18th Operations GroupMaster Sgt. Jason Washington, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronSenior Airman Carlaton White II, 18th Aeromedical Evacuation SquadronStaff Sgt. Joshua Whiting, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronMaster Sgt. Kimberly Widener, 18th Dental SquadronStaff Sgt. Thomas Wiley, 353rd Special Operations Support SquadronSenior Airman Angela Wilkerson, 18th Comptroller SquadronStaff Sgt. Jacob Williams, 718th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronSenior Airman Theodore Williams, 353 Special Operations Support SquadronTech. Sgt. Bradley Wilson, 18th Force Support SquadronStaff Sgt. Christopher Wilson, 320th Special Tactics SquadronStaff Sgt. Tristan Windle, 320th Special Tactics SquadronSenior Airman Colin Wolfe, 18th Maintenance GroupSenior Airman Shing Wong, 18th Dental SquadronSenior Airman Shing Wong, 353rd Special Operations Maintenance SquadronStaff Sgt. Corey Woods, 18th Civil Engineering SquadronMaster Sgt. Devin Wright, 18th Force Support SquadronTech. Sgt. Sicily Yazzie, 17th Special Operations SquadronStaff Sgt. Jason Zimmerly, 18th Component Maintenance Squadron

By 18th Wing Public Affairs6/4/2015 — More than 280 Kadena Airmen were formally awarded Community College of the Air Force degrees during a graduation ceremony at the Keystone Th eater June 4. Congratulations to the following graduates:

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By Lt. Col. Phillip Jenison, N. Joan Blackwell and Chief Warrant Offi cer 4 Mark Parr Ground DirectorateU.S. Army Combat Readiness Center6/10/2015 — Today’s Army leaders face a strategically complex, uncertain and changing environment. In keeping with the mission command philosophy, lead-ers must employ disciplined personal initiative to execute a shared understand-ing of the commander’s intent for each mission. For this decentralized decision- making approach to be successful, lead-ers must build cohesive teams based on mutual trust, and plan for and accept a prudent amount of risk in the missions they undertake. As a result, there exists a compelling need to operationalize safety. Command-ers and the Soldiers they lead need to know how to routinely identify, mitigate and eliminate the hazards inherent in all their endeavors, whether in combat or at home station, both on duty and off duty. To that end, the U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center continues to research and develop innovative programs and tools that can help commanders make safety an integral part of everything their units do. A few of the tools currently available that focus on preventing ground losses include the Range and Weapons Safe-ty Toolbox, Driver’s Training Toolbox, Off -Duty Safety Awareness Presentation, Army Readiness Assessment Program

and Ground Risk Assessment Tool. Each of these products, and many other ma-terials produced by the USACRC, assist commanders by creating awareness of potential safety-related issues and pro-viding countermeasures and strategies for circumventing associated risks. Fur-ther, the tools themselves are not static. Th ey are constantly evolving in light of lessons learned, changes in policy and user feedback. For instance, GRAT is currently being overhauled and expand-ed as the Joint Risk Assessment Tool to better serve the Army and support lead-ers from other branches of the military.

Th e ODSAP is redesigned annually to re-fl ect current accident statistics and fresh-en the training package with new videos and other pertinent safety information. We cannot always prevent losing a Soldier to enemy activity in combat. Th e inherent risks of our profession are such that fatalities and injuries will persist, despite our best eff orts. However, all too oft en we lose Soldiers outside of combat due to preventable accidents. It is these deaths we must stop. While the number of accidental fatalities continued to de-cline again last year to an all-time low of 127 at the end of fi scal 2014, among those

losses were Soldiers who weren’t properly restrained inside vehicles and negligent discharges of both military and private-ly owned weapons. Th ose are just two of the many types of accidents that could have been prevented. And though we tend to focus primarily on fatalities when discussing accidents, in reality, anytime someone in the force is away from the formation due to preventable injury, it is a loss to both unit cohesion and mission readiness. As the number of deployments takes a shift and the Army moves into an era of rebalancing focus, it is certain the home station training environment tempo will increase. Th us, it is imperative that lead-ers incorporate safe practices and hazard controls into every aspect of their units’ daily activities. Th e key requirement for a positive shift in a unit’s safety culture is engaged leadership from the bottom up. Aft er all, even the very best risk assess-ment cannot prevent accidents if no one is willing to monitor and step in when an activity or situation becomes unsafe. As the USACRC prepares to launch the Joint Risk Assessment Tool and oth-er safety materials in fi scal year 2016, we challenge commanders, leaders and Soldiers to embrace an environment of continuous learning and rigorous appli-cation of safety principles and practices. Don’t just “check the block” when you’ve completed your risk assessment work-sheet. Implement the plan and dare to be creative at operationalizing safety.

National Safety Month: Operationalizing safety

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Ginowan Home¥180,000/month.4 bedrooms2 bathsEasy access to Camp Foster and Camp Futenma.

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Shima House ¥160,000/month.4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths. Spacious inviting single.

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Uruma House¥220,000/month.3 bedrooms,2 bathsNewly built home close to Camp Courtney.

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By U.S. Army Garrison – Okinawa Public Affairs6/10/2015 — Volunteers from the 1st Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group hosted the annu-al Warrior’s Silent Auction at Havana’s on Torii Station June 5 to raise awareness and garner support for the battalion’s Spe-cial Events Group, which uses the funds to support more than 1,000 Family members of for-ward stationed and frequently deployed Special Operations Soldiers who call Okinawa their home away from home. More than 90 Soldiers, Fami-lies and civilians bid on a variety of items provided by dozens of donors, including: gift bags from well-known brands, free tickets to Family-friendly entertain-ment events, several items from craft artisans and more. At the end of the evening, more than $3,000 was raised to directly support the Families of Special Operations personnel who continue to serve the Na-tion quietly each and every day, according to event organizers. All money raised will direct-ly fund upcoming special events for Families including: Welcome Fest in August, Harvestfest in October and Santa on the Beach in December. “Our Warrior’s Silent Auc-tion proved to be an exception-

al event for Army camaraderie and fellowship with joint-service Families assigned to Okinawa — all for the greater good of our battalion Families,” said Battal-ion Commander Lt. Col. Joshe Raetz. “Th is year, over 80 gen-erous supporters provided items for auction … I am personally grateful for and humbled by the benevolence of our friends of 1-1st Special Forces,” he said. Th e event also allowed for an enjoyable evening of Family ca-maraderie, Army fellowship and some friendly competition. “Like all auctions, the night was full of wins and losses,” said Gar-rison Safety Manager Phil Mer-

chant, who had his sights set on a Vermont goodie basket with two large bottles of maple syrup. “Un-fortunately I was outbid,” he said. But the Merchant Family did come away with a signed photo print of Mt. Fuji at dusk, a set of Legos and a handmade felt brooch – a sweet haul aft er all. However, the real win for Merchant and others wasn’t ma-terial, but rather reverence and support for those who continue to put it all on the line. “We supported the cause be-cause like so many of our Army Family, they are oft en deployed and if our contribution and at-tendance assists in any way,

that’s a win for our Army Team.” Family Readiness Groups, which serve as a conduit between the command and Family mem-bers, are an integral part of the Army Team. Th e Family Read-iness Group, formerly known as the Family Support Group, is a concept that had early roots among Army Families, who banded together during war or tours overseas or other isolated locations, to provide informa-tion, moral support, and social outlets to their members, accord-ing to the Army Family Readi-ness Group Leader’s Handbook. For Family Readiness Group member Mylenna Ortega, who

served as the lead event planner for the Warrior’s Silent Auction, the event was a victory for the Battalion’s Families. “Th e 2015 [Warrior’s] Silent Auction was an absolute suc-cess thanks to all the wonderful volunteers that made this event possible. I would like to express my gratitude to the silent auction committee and, Lt. Col. Joshe Raetz, [1st Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group] Commander, and to Col. Eric Martinez, Garrison Commander USAG-Okinawa, for all your support. Th e evening was full of friends, food, fun, and great deals for everybody that came out to attend the event.”

“First in Asia” Battalion Family readiness group hosts warrior’s silent auction

(Photos courtesy of 1st Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne))

More than 90 Soldiers, Families and civilians bid on a variety of items provided by dozens of donors June 5 to raise awareness and garner support for the 1st Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group Family Readiness Group during the annual Warrior’s Silent Auction.

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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. Kadena AB Gate 1 Visitor Control Center-early closureThe Visitor Control Center at Gate 1 on Kadena will be closing early for an offi cial unit function June 26. Hours will be from 7:30-11 a.m., but the center will resume normal operating hours June 29. For further details or questions, contact Tech. Sgt. Kevin Spain at 634-1033.

Library summer reading programBeginning June 22, the library will begin the Summer Reading Program. This program is open to all authorized library users. Minutes are logged online. Use the link on Kadenafss.com or the Library’s Facebook page to create an account in Evanced and start logging your minutes. For more information, contact William Niblick at 634-1502.

Kadena Clinic closureKadena’s clinic will be closed for an offi cial function and readiness training June 18. For more information, contact the clinic at 630-4817.

Military Tuition Assistance Application WindowStudents interested in utilizing Military Tuition Assistance (MilTA) must attend the mandatory TA briefi ng and have an approved degree plan on fi le before applying for MilTA via the Air Force Virtual Education Center (AFVEC) site located at https://afvec.langley.af.mil/afvec. All TA applications must be submitted no earlier than 45 days and no later than seven days from the

term start date. For more information, call the Education Offi ce at 634-1500, option 1 or email Kadenaeducationoffi ce@us.af.mil.

Introduction to Buddhism seminarKadena/Okinawa Soka Gakkai International Buddhist group is scheduled to host an event to provide introductory level information about the Buddhist practice at Chapel 3, 7-8 p.m. June 23. For more information, contact Richard Tollini at DSN 634-3929, CP 090-1942-1066 or richard.tollini.ctr@us.af.mil, or Tom Harter, Harold.harter@us.af.mil, 634-1776.

Refuse Contract changeStarting June 15, residents of Military Family Housing on Okinawa will be required to move their refuse bins to the curb by 8 a.m. the day of their scheduled refuse pick up. The refuse bins can be placed near the same location as recycling bins are currently placed for pick up. This change does not impact residents living within the towers. For more information, call the 18th CES Service Contracts offi ce at 634-0707, or for questions regarding the refuse pick up schedule, call the 718th CES Housing Facilities offi ce at 634-1427.

Family Housing customer service changesEffective June 15, the Camp Courtney Family Housing Customer Service offi ce will be relocated to building 4118, with hours of operation from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday except on Wednesday they are open 8 a.m. to noon and they are closed daily from noon to 1 p.m. All family housing assignments and inbound briefi ngs will relocate to the Kadena Housing Offi ce at building 217 on Kadena Air Base. For more information, call the Courtney Housing Offi ce at 622-7317 or the Kadena Housing Offi ce at 634-0582.

Operation Game Drop 2.0Operation Game Drop 2.0 is seeking monetary

contributions as well as donations of video game systems, accessories and games to support the Pediatrics Clinic on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. Donation began May 20 and ends June 26 here on Kadena. All donations will provide comfort to children undergoing treatment or in recovery. For more information, email Staff Sgt. Armond Philmon at armond.philmon@us.af.mil.

Leaders Encouraging Airman Development (LEAD) commissioning opportunityIt is the time of year for outstanding Airmen to apply to the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) and Preparatory School. Interested Airmen must be academically qualifi ed, of high moral character, possess exceptional

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

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leadership potential, and meet all USAFA entry requirements. For further information and to apply online, visit the Academy Admissions website at www.academyadmissions.com and start the pre-candidate questionnaire, or email USAF_DVP@usafa.edu.

Partial road closures on Douglas BoulevardFor the next several months there will be partial road closures on Douglas Blvd. to accommodate a sewer line installation. The closures are scheduled as follows: From Warfi eld Road to McKennon Avenue – May 26 through Oct. 31. / Gate 1 visitor parking lot entrance from/exit to inbound lanes – Nov. 11 – 30. / Gate 1 outbound – Dec. 22, 2015 through Jan. 15, 2016. / Pavement restoration of above areas – Jan. 16 through March 31, 2016 For more information, call Tsuguo Asato at 634-4879.

Kadena arrival, sign-in and in-processing (active duty Air Force personnel)Upon arrival to Kadena AB, all Airmen must fi rst report to their respective unit’s Command Support Staff, intro manager or admin staff representative for initial duty assignment, notifi cation upon arrival or the next duty day after weekend arrival. After unit sign-in, report to the Kadena Military Personnel Section with completed IDA notifi cation for in-processing. MPS in-processing is conducted Monday – Friday at 8 a.m. at the MPS, Bldg. 721B, room H100. For more information, call MPS Customer Support at 634-4537.

National anthem singers wanted18th Wing Protocol is seeking talented vocalists to perform the national anthems at future events. Nominees will have a brief audition performing either the Japanese or American anthem or both. To audition, contact 18th Wing Protocol at 634-1808.

UPCOMING EVENTS2015 AFSA Flag Day CeremonyThe Air Force Sergeants Association is scheduled to conduct the 2015 AFSA Flag Day Ceremony from 4:30-5:30 p.m. June 15 at Bldg. 10. For more information, call Staff Sgt. Beverly Gorham at 632-0231 or Master Sgt. Renee Oliviel at 634-3272.

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium Dorm 700 invites all unaccompanied housing residents for a trip to the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium June 21. It will Cost $30 per person, and fees are due no later than June 15. For additional information contact Airman 1st Class Randall Levy at 080-6482-9439 or the Dorm 700 council.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESVolunteers needed for charitable dance eventThe Special Olympics Nippon (SON) Okinawa is scheduled to hold a charitable dance event from 6-9 p.m. July 18 at Okinawa City Koza Music Town third fl oor. The SON Okinawa’s currently recruiting Country and Western enjoyers (amateurs welcome) from the military community who can volunteer for a 15-minute performance (with basic tunes) and dance along with local special needs athletes during the event timeframe. This event is to support daily missions and activities of SON Okinawa. For more information, contact Sayaka Kawatake, U.S. volunteer coordinator, at 634-4142 or email sayaka.kawatake.jp@us.af.mil.

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By Tech. Sgt.Christopher Marasky374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs6/5/2015 - YOKOTA AIR BASE, Ja-pan — Lieutenant General John Dolan assumed command of U.S. Forces Japan, and Fift h Air Force during a change of command ceremony held here today. General Dolan, the former Chief of Staff U.S. Pacifi c Command, replaced Lt. Gen. Sam Angelella who retired today. General Lori Robinson, Commander, Pacifi c Air Forces; Air Component Com-mander for U.S. Pacifi c Command; and Executive Director, Pacifi c Air Combat Operations Staff , was present to offi ciate at the ceremony. “Th e security relationship between the U.S. and Japan is the cornerstone of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacifi c,” Robin-

son said. “Fift h Air Force, for example, has provided continuous airpower in the Pacifi c since September 1941. Today, each of the services in Japan continues the mission of deterring aggression and maintaining regional stability.” As Robinson discussed the role of the command in the Pacifi c, she highlighted the importance of great leadership during the ceremony. “Th is is a special day for Pacifi c Air Forces and U.S. Pacifi c Command,” Rob-inson said. “Today, we acknowledge the profound impact of a great leadership team and welcome another one to lead and care for our service men and women in Japan.” As he relinquished command and prepared to head into retirement, Ange-lella took a moment to highlight some of the challenges and accomplishments

during his tenure. “Th ree years ago Admiral Locklear tasked you [USFJ personnel] to operation-alize this organization, and you’ve done so magnifi cently,” Angelella said. “You did it in the wake and recovery of the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011. You brought over the newest equipment and best trained service members and civilians. “And here we stand today, as we refl ect on the 70th Anniversary of the end of World War II, the United States and Japan are readying the Alliance for the challeng-es of the future and reaffi rming its role as the guarantor of Peace and Stability in the Asia-Pacifi c,” Angelella said. Dolan took a moment to speak to the men and women of USFJ and Fift h Air Force as he assumed the mantle of com-mander. “To my joint Service and civilian team-mates and shipmates, I’m honored to have this opportunity to serve along your side as your USFJ commander,” Dolan said. “Th is past year, I’ve had the privilege to watch how you all have worked as a team, training side-by-side with our Japanese partners, nurturing our relationships, maintaining the defensive readiness, and providing quick and responsive humani-tarian support of the region. Your eff orts are a huge part of why our alliance is so strong today. “To the Airmen in Fift h Air Force, I’m proud to be part of your team! Th e successes you have had in providing global reach, power and vigilance to the Pacifi c region are second to none,” Dolan said. “For both USFJ and Fift h Air Force commands, I will work daily to ensure you have the resources and guidance to be successful in continuing your unique mission sets.”

USFJ, 5 AF change of command ceremony

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Delano Scott)

^Gen. Lori J. Robinson, Pacifi c Air Forces commander, passes the U.S. Forces Japan guidon to the new USFJ and 5th Air Force commander, Lt. Gen. John L. Dolan, during a change of command ceremony June 5, at Yokota Air Base.