David Eaglin News Today

The Okinawa summer heat took its toll on about 20 airmen who staggered or were pulled out of formation during the 18th Wing’s change-of-command ceremony Thursday.

The Air Force is attempting cultural diplomacy by opening this U.S. installation’s gates for the general public for the first time in nine years.

Four airmen with Kadena’s 18th Wing received awards for valor earlier this month for their actions three years ago during an Iranian rocket attack on al Asad Air Base in Iraq.

Airmen assigned to the 18th Wing recently concluded a routine operational readiness exercise designed to sharpen skills needed to ensure security and stability of the lndo-Pacific in any contested environment.

The Air Force plans to replace the two units of F-15 Eagles positioned on Okinawa with rotating units of more advanced, fifth-generation F-22 Raptor stealth fighters for the foreseeable future. 

The body of Airman 1st Class Keija Xavier Hilt, 20, of the 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron at Kadena Air Base, was recovered Wednesday.

Setting of seasonal TCCOR 4 between June 1 and November 30 is a precautionary measure, as Okinawa lies in an area subject to forming of typhoons.

Most travel is off the table until Jan. 24 for American service members, civilians and their families in Japan who fall under the status of forces agreement.

24 U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Joel L. Carey relinquished command of the 18th Wing to Brig. Gen. David Eaglin during a change of command ceremony at Kadena Air Base, Japan, July 16, 2021. Maj. Gen. Leonard Kosinski, 5th Air Force deputy commander, presided over the event as the 18th Wing ceremoniously bid farewell to one leader and welcomed another. Kosinski applauded Carey for his leadership, vision and energy and presented him with the Legion of Merit award. “You have done a ...