18th OSS Capt. awarded JAAGA honor Published March 11, 2014 By Airman 1st Class Zade C. Vadnais 18th Wing Public Affairs KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- An Air Force captain was recently awarded the 2013 Japan-America Air Force Goodwill Association award here. Capt. William Sullivan, 18th Operations Support Squadron dissimilar air combat training officer and electronic combat officer, was presented the award, the purpose of which is to recognize outstanding contributions made in an effort to foster a positive relationship between Japan and the United States. "(Sullivan) was nominated for this award because he's been very involved in promoting that friendship," said Lt. Col. Robert Pekarek, 18th OSS commander. Sullivan was responsible for coordinating several bi-lateral training events, including bringing JASDF and USAF pilots together to participate in the 18th Wing Turkey Shoot, an annual air-to-air competition. For the first time in the wing's history, JASDF F-15s competed along with Kadena F-15s in a friendly competition and flew in mixed formations of Japanese and U.S. aircraft. Bi-lateral events have increased by 400 percent since April 2013, thanks, in no small part, to Sullivan's constant efforts. "His drive is unmatched," Pekarek said. "Tactically he's very credible, he's an outstanding officer and a good person; he really represents our core values. It was an easy pick because he stands out among his peers." Pekarek said Sullivan's work with the JASDF as well as his off-duty volunteer work for the Kadena Special Olympics, coaching for weight lifting programs and helping put together a youth lacrosse clinic attended by Okinawans and Americans put him in contact with many different people who are left with a favorable impression of the wing as a result. "He's just a great representative for the wing and the United States," Pekarek said.