Kadena wins PACAF Chaplain Corps Award

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Renee Crisostomo
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  Pacific Air Forces officials announced that the Kadena Chaplain's office earned the top status as the best Large Active Duty Chapel.

"This award is much more than just a chapel team award," said Chaplain (Col.) Steven McCain, 18th Wing Chaplain. "We have an amazing team of chaplains, chaplain assistants, civilians and contractors who are deeply committed to taking care of our Team Kadena community both here and deployed.

"Last year our manning reached critical levels," the chaplain added. "Our chapel lay people stepped up, owned our ministry and programs, and dramatically expanded our service and support to our community."

In a message sent on behalf of Gen. Gary North, Pacific Air Forces commander, by the Headquarters PACAF office, the winners and nominees were congratulated for their work in 2010.

"I salute the winners and pay tribute to all our chaplain corps nominees who have done so much to further the Air Force's mission of providing spiritual care and the opportunity for personnel to exercise their religious freedoms," the message stated.

"We have an awesome staff of ministry warriors," said Chaplain McCain. "But this is much more than a recognition of our chapel team. It's a celebration of Team Kadena's community spirit. The Shogun Shepherds are honored to serve the flock on the Rock."

The Chaplain's office will now compete for the Large Active Duty Chapel Award at the Air Force level.