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AmericaFest wraps up

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Sara Csurilla
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  AmericaFest concluded with a huge firework display on Kadena's flight line July 2, after two days of celebrating America's 235th birthday.

Despite the hot weather and sporadic rainstorms, about 35 thousand people came July 1 and 2 to enjoy the rows of food and game booths, static aircraft displays from the Air Force, Marine Corps, Army, Navy and Japan Air Self Defense Force, live entertainment and a Kiddieland.

The first day was open to all Status of Forces Agreement status ID card holders, and the second day was open to all SOFA status ID card holders and Japanese citizens.

"We host AmericaFest for two specific reasons; to say 'Thank you' to our Japanese hosts who graciously allow us to live in Okinawa, and to celebrate and share America's birthday," said Gen. Matt Molloy, 18th Wing commander. "We also share the common values of freedom, family, friendship and equality for all as we work together for the mutual defense of the Pacific region."

AmericaFest was about bringing Americans and Japanese together in the spirit of friendship, and for some, it did just that.

"I had a really great time at AmericaFest," said Airman 1st Class Steven Wong, 18th Communications Squadron, network applications technician. "It was nice to attend an event with fellow service members and members of the local community."

Airman Wong said he attended the event Saturday night and was really happy with the performances by country music artist Jessie James and hard rock band 12 Stones.

Along with Jessie James and 12 Stones, local bands including Storm Watch and Kluso also performed during the event.

In between live music performances, there were also presentations from local performers including the Taiko Drummers, Shi Shi Dogs and Ryujin Mabuyer, a group of children's action heroes.

Wing leadership said this was such a great opportunity for Airmen and their families to meet with the local community and to strengthen our ever-growing alliance with Japan, and General Molloy said, "It's also a great opportunity to provide a slice of America with hamburgers, funnel cakes and fireworks."