Local vendors, U.S. military save time, money

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Malia Jenkins
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  The third-annual Okinawan First Vendor Showcase, sponsored by the 18th Contracting Squadron and the Okinawa Industry Promotion Public Cooperation, was held Feb. 7 at the Schilling Community Center.

"To carry out our mission we must have the right supplies, facilities and equipment," said Col. Jeff Ullmann, 18th Mission Support Group commander. "The Airmen, Sailors, Soldiers and Marines who use those facilities and equipment must have the supplies they need and (the equipment and facilities) must be well-maintained."

The event showed Government Purchase Card holders, unit resource advisors and military members who attended, locally-made products offered by Okinawan companies.

"The objective of the showcase (was) to provide units cost-effective alternatives and foster goodwill and ambassadorship by actively seeking opportunities to conduct business with our host nation partners," said Maj. Calvin Hodgson, 18th CONS commander.

More than 20 local vendors came to the event, showcasing products including insulated brick, recycled toner cartridges, cargo services, and the ability to repair heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.

"We targeted 25 vendors for this year's event," Hodgson said. "(They were) chosen because they offer goods and services in areas which have (been) historically proven to be difficult to (find)."

"Our presence at (the) showcase signifies our mutual interest in developing new business relationships between the U.S. government and local companies," Ullmann said. "We know Okinawan companies offer good products and services, reliable staff and the know-how to get the job done right, on time and within budget."