Camp Zama ACS hosts AFAP forum

Photo By Candy Pafford | Liz Pasquarette, spouse of Maj. Gen. James F. Pasquarette, the commanding general of U.S. Army Japan and I Corps (Forward), talks with community members about issues and concerns being addressed with AFAP forums such as the event Nov. 18 at the Camp Zama Community Activity Center. (U.S. Army photo by Lance Davis)  

CAMP ZAMA, JAPAN

11.20.2015

Story by Candy Pafford 

U.S. Army Garrison - Japan

CAMP ZAMA, Japan — Camp Zama’s Army Community Service hosted the Army Family Action Plan, an issue gathering forum Nov. 18 at the installation’s Community Activity Center.

Yolanda Hingel, acting director of ACS, said AFAP is a platform that gives Camp Zama community members—which include Soldiers, Family Members, Civilians and Retirees—a platform to voice concerns, issues and ideas for their quality of life in the Army.

“If someone has an issue and they’re sitting on it and not letting their voice be heard, nothing can happen,” said Hingel, “but if you let us know what you would like to see changed, or what concerns you have, at least it gives us an opportunity to get it to the right people to make something happen.”

The forum began with opening remarks from Liz Pasquarette, spouse of Maj. Gen. James F. Pasquarette, the commanding general of U.S. Army Japan and I Corps (Forward).

“I can personally vouch for the fact that people at very senior levels do listen, do care and do take the issues seriously,” said Pasquarette.

The forum continued with attendees discussing their issues in areas such as medical, housing, dental and family programs with subject matter experts and volunteers at various stations and completing issue forms.

“I think it’s very awesome to have an event that is focused on allowing you to express how you feel,” said Shanikwa Breedlove, a family member and ACS volunteer. “Hopefully, our issues can be resolved or met half way.”

Hingel said all issue forms will be submitted to a committee, which includes the Commander of U.S. Army Garrison Japan, Col. William Johnson, for review to determine if the issues can be addressed at the garrison level or should be redirected to a higher chain of command.

In addition, Hingel said everyone is encouraged to submit their issues through ACS year round.

According to the Army MWR website AFAP programs and services have being used to help improve Army communities since its creation in 1983.

• Date Taken: 11.20.2015
• Date Posted: 11.20.2015 01:37
• Story ID: 182415
• Location: CAMP ZAMA, JP