Kadena celebrates AF’s 68th birthday at Passenger Terminal

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman John Linzmeier
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
Kadena Air Base Japan --  A cake cutting ceremony was held Sept. 18 in celebration of the Air Force's 68th birthday at the Kadena Passenger Terminal.

The event was hosted by the 733rd Air Mobility Squadron and volunteers from USO Kadena in order to honor the Air Force's aging heritage. Travelers passing through the terminal were also invited to partake in the observance.

The program entailed a history lesson so spectators could learn about how the Air Force came to be; from its origin within a U.S. Army Signal Corps Aeronautical Division to Chuck Yeager's revolutionary flight that broke the sound barrier.

"It was by the achievements in the Army that demonstrated the necessity and strength that a full branch of aeronautical personnel is vital to a strong military strategy for the U.S.," said Senior Airman Jordan Boyd, 733rd AMS passenger service agent.

By tradition, the most junior ranking Airman on scene, Airman 1st Class Aaron Rens, 733rd AMS passenger service agent, held the responsibility of cutting the birthday cake to symbolize the new generation of Airmen who have served in the past and present.

"I feel like the past generations of Airmen have definitely set a high standard to follow," said Rens, "but I'm up for the challenge. It's an honor to be a part of their legacy."

Rather than having the most senior ranking service member to join Rens in the cake cutting, the ceremony was conducted with a local twist. The most experienced local national contractor on scene, Kazue Yukabi, 733rd budget analyst who has worked at Kadena for more than 20 years, helped Rens to cut the first slice. 

Through cutting the cake, the two represented the long-term friendship and teamwork shared between U.S. service members and their Japanese hosts. More than 4,000 local national employees and contractors help Kadena to sustain peace and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

With a relaxed atmosphere and a chance to enjoy food and entertainment, the celebration also provided an opportunity for spectators to acknowledge the unique role of America's Airmen in national security.

"We are a distinct part of the Department of Defense and we bring capabilities, people and expertise to the fight that no one else can," said Maj. Bob Rabon, 733rd AMS acting commander. "Enjoy the Unites States Air Force's birthday and I hope you all take a couple moments to reflect on why we are special."

As the Air Force begins its 68th year and enters an unpredictable future, its Airmen will remain ready to fly, fight and win against worldwide threats in air, space and cyberspace.