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Nikkei students visit Kadena, tour base

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Brooke P. Doyle
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  A group of 17 students from the Nikkei College of Business recently participated in an English conversation exchange program.

The program focused on improving the students' English skills, while also giving them the opportunity to interact with Air Force members and see what the Air Force does by participating in facility tours.

"English is my second language," said Master Sgt. Mark Ninal, 18th Maintenance Operations Squadron maintenance management analysis section chief. "And I enjoyed participating in this program because I can relate and share my experiences with the students."

Three to four students were broken up into groups that toured different aspects of the base.

During their visit, students learned about the air traffic control tower and F-15 Eagle fighter jets. They also saw a K-9 demonstration and a received a tour of the 31st Rescue Squadron radar facility.

"It was a really great time, a lot of fun, and an excellent opportunity for all parties involved," said Senior Airman David Haskins, 18th MOS deficiency analyst. "I would do it again in a heartbeat."

The students also participated in daily English conversation lessons with various volunteers from around base.

"Before going here I thought every service man and woman flew the jets and shot guns," said Reimi Shimabukoro, Nikkei College of Business student. "But now I know they're in charge of more things like electricity and repairing planes and buildings."