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US, Japanese NCOs participate in exchange program

Feb. 21, 2003

By Capt Richelle Dowdell
Fifth Air Force Public Affairs

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan - Several Yokota non-commissioned officers recently took part in a special exchange program designed to enhance bilateral operations.

Seven 374th Airlift Wing NCOs spent 10 days at Komaki Air Base as part of the US Air Force - Japanese Self-Defense Force Bilateral NCO Exchange Program.

The program, which began in 1996, was designed to enhance NCO relationships, exchange cultural and professional military ideas and gain a better understanding of allied operations.

"This is an excellent opportunity for our NCOs to truly interact with their JASDF counterparts. Not only will the NCOs live, eat, drink and sleep as the JASDF NCOs do, but they will also perform the jobs and duties of their hosts," said Chief Master Sgt. Robert O'Neal, Fifth Air Force Command Chief and Bilateral NCO Exchange Program Coordinator. "Our job, like their job is designed to enhance both countries' air operations to better serve the defense of Japan."

The group drove to nearby Iruma AB and flew via a JASDF C-1 to Komaki AB near the city of Nagoya, Japan, where their exchange hosts met them. Following introductions, a base orientation and a group photo, the NCOs were whisked away to their new jobs.

"It's very valuable to see what the Air Force and JASDF emphasizes in its training. Most of our techniques are very similar, but we tend to focus on different mission areas," said Staff Sgt. Brent Stoddard, a 374th Maintenance Squadron technician.

Stoddard spent most of his time at Komaki studying the bright yellow JASDF Isochronal Phase dock and comparing maintenance practices. "Being able to speak with and learn from each other has been the real benefit of this exchange," said Stoddard. "We've been able to share ideas and exchange procedures for maintaining the aircraft."

Currently, each Fifth Air Force base has a 'sister base' it participates with through this program; Chitose and Misawa, Komatsu and Kadena and Komaki and Yokota ABs. The program is funded by donations from the Japan American Air Force Goodwill Association and unit temporary duty costs.

"When you're able to sit down face-to-face with your counterpart and discuss how you can improve the way you operate-that's the most important thing that is going to happen as far as the training is concerned," said O'Neal.

"The other benefit is getting to know your allies and fellow warriors and developing a deeper trust of their capabilities."

According to O'Neal, although strong Japanese language skills are desirable, they are not required for U.S. members to participate. However, participants do need to have an open mind and a strong desire to work with their JASDF counterparts. Staff Sgt. Tricia Ochinang, a 374th Medical Group technician spent her days working in Komaki AB's hospital. As a 'on loan' medical technician, she could appreciate the similarities in the procedures and routines.

"The biggest challenge is that we communicate differently. We do the same things, but the language isn't always the same," said Ochinang.

The program also includes base visits and JASDF enlisted attendance at the Air Force NCO Academy at Kadena AB and Airman Leadership School at Misawa AB.

Twenty-five JASDF NCOs have graduated from the academy, and 14 JASDF senior airmen have graduated from leadership school since 1996.

The FY02 Bilateral Exchange Program concludes with an upcoming exchange between Misawa and Chitose ABs. According to O'Neal planning for FY 03 exchanges will begin in March. (PACAFNS)