KADENA AIR BASE, Japan — Airmen assigned to the 18th Civil Engineer Group at Kadena Air Base partnered with the Misato Children’s Home during a community cleanup project June 12, 2026, demonstrating the installation’s commitment to strengthening relationships with the local community while improving a safe outdoor environment for children.
The event was organized by members of the Kadena Top III, who volunteered their time to clear overgrown vegetation, remove fallen debris left behind by recent Typhoon Jangmi and improve the grounds surrounding the facility. Despite rainy weather and last-minute changes to the plan, volunteers remained committed to supporting the children’s home and enhancing the property’s safety and appearance.
“We wanted to do something for the community,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Cid Bartolome, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron alarm systems section chief. “We wanted to show our young Airmen and Non-Commissioned Officers that there are opportunities out there that truly help and impact other people’s lives.”
The project originated after Bartolome learned the children’s home needed assistance maintaining its grounds. Overgrown grass and brush can create safety concerns for children by attracting insects and providing hiding places for local wildlife.
One volunteer said the event stood out because it provided a unique opportunity to make a direct impact on the lives of others. “It seemed like a cool, different type of volunteer opportunity,” said Airman Joshua Hernandez, 18th CES pavements and equipment journeyman. “I don’t see a lot of opportunities like this, so something like that feels more meaningful.”
Hernandez added that supporting the local community is especially important while serving overseas.
“I think it’s great, especially because we’re in a foreign country,” Hernandez said. “It gives us an opportunity to strengthen the bond between Japan and America.”
Beyond the physical work, volunteers viewed the event as an opportunity to build relationships with Okinawan residents and demonstrate the Air Force’s commitment to being a positive presence in the community.
“The most rewarding part has been being able to talk to the locals and show them that we want to foster that community relationship,” Bartolome said. “They know we’re here to help.”
While this marked the group’s first organized volunteer event with the children’s home, both the volunteers and facility staff expressed interest in continuing the partnership. Organizers hope to return regularly and expand opportunities for Airmen to engage with the local community.
“There are a lot of opportunities out here and a lot of things that we can help with,” Bartolome said. “We have the chance, the opportunity and the capability to help. I’d encourage more people to volunteer and find ways to make a positive impact in the community.”
The cleanup project highlighted the impact service members can have beyond the installation fence line, strengthening ties between Kadena Air Base and the Okinawan community while creating a safer environment for local children.