Kristy Kristy Santiago

Kadena Air Base, located on the island of Okinawa, Japan, has been a pivotal installation for the United States Air Force since its establishment in 1945 following the Battle of Okinawa during World War II. Originally built by the Imperial Japanese Army, the base was seized and rapidly expanded by American forces, soon becoming a major strategic hub during the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Over the decades, Kadena has hosted numerous units, most notably the 18th Wing, the Air Force’s largest combat wing, and has played a crucial role in regional deterrence and rapid response operations. Today, Kadena Air Base continues to serve as a cornerstone of U.S. military presence in the Pacific, supporting both American and allied air operations throughout the Asia-Pacific region.