Ready to launch

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II from Hill Air Force Base, Utah, taxis for take-off at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Nov. 7, 2017. The F-35A is deployed under U.S. Pacific Command’s theater security package program, which has been in operation since 2004. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Omari

Remembering 9/11

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Heriberto Diaz, Erwin Professional Military Education Center commandant, and Master Sgt. Lauren Strike, Erwin PME Center director of education, stand at the position of parade rest during a Sept. 11 remembrance ceremony, Sept. 11, 2017, at Kadena Air Base, Japan.

Getting the help you need

Post-traumatic stress disorder might be considered by many a byproduct of war and participation in combat; however PTSD is not exclusive to military members, because it can affect civilians as well. Many people may not know it, but there is help readily available at Air Force hospitals and clinics

Lady Shoguns Defend Title

Each spring on Okinawa, wooden dragons soar through the sea as thousands of onlookers watch from Tomari Wharf in Naha City. Dozens of teams combat the sea, and their nerves, as each team member struggles to stroke in unison to the tune of a bronze gong that can barely be heard over the cheers of the

Maintaining the fleet

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Brian Mercer, Golden Swordsman Patrol Squadron (VP-47) aviation mate, works on the P-3 Orion Nov. 8, 2016 while deployed to Kadena Air Base, Japan. The P-3 Orion specializes in intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and submarine warfare. (U.S. Air Force photo

18th Wing, 353rd SOG aircraft practice life-saving skills for Keen Sword 2016

Staff Sgt. Caleb Williams, 18th Operations Support Squadron SERE specialist, performs a communications check aboard a HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter assigned to the 33rd Rescue Squadron for exercise Keen Sword Nov. 4, 2016, off the coast of Okinawa, Japan. During the training, members of the 33rd RQS

KSO 2016 kicks off

Event participants release balloons into the air to signal the start of the Kadena Special Olympics main event Nov. 5, 2016, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. The goal of KSO is to break down social barriers and create an environment of understanding and acceptance among U.S. and Japanese citizens living

Last to let you down

Aircrew flight equipment Airmen from the 31st Rescue Squadron ensured their charges had a safe landing during their water landing training scenario off the coast of Okinawa.

Corrosion Control

Okinawa’s sub-tropical climate exposes airfield damage repair (ADR) assets to year-round rainfall, high humidity, thunderstorms and typhoons, placing Kadena in fourth place for the U.S. Air Force’s top bases for corrosive climates. With a $15 million ADR vehicle on the line, 18th Logistics

Essential players in RED FLAG-Alaska exercise