BLOG hosts holiday event Published Dec. 8, 2015 By Airman 1st Class Lynette M. Rolen 18th Wing Public Affairs KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- The Bilateral Leadership Officer Group, composed of officers from Kadena and the Japan Air Self Defense Force, came together at Kadena Air Base for a holiday celebration Dec. 5. The event allowed both U.S. Air Force and JASDF officers to enjoy time together and form friendships with one another. The celebration featured activities such as a selfie station, bean bag toss, limbo contest, musical chairs and a visit from Santa; creating an environment where both forces could mingle. The primary focus of the event was to encourage resiliency and promote social interactions outside of the professional environment. "This event was more of the social piece, the social pillar- bringing together the JASDF and their families to help with future relations," said Capt. Joshua Caragan, 18th Wing Equal Opportunity director. "This is a moment in time for them to see who they will be working with. Having that relationship definitely already breaks the ice and allows them to start working together a lot quicker. That's why events like this definitely benefit both our countries in the first place." The celebration allowed friendships to be formed on both sides and improve the U.S. Air Force and JASDF partnership. Capt. Tae Hattori, JASDF Foreign Liaison Chief, commented on the fact that this event provides a great environment to form friendships. These friendships, in turn, can strengthen bilateral relations. There are many chances for training with each other. This meeting allows us to make friendships and partnerships, said Hattori. "It makes it easier for us to train with each other. It is a very good effect. We want to continue this meeting in the future so we can connect and make our partnership stronger."