35 FW focuses on Caring

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kaleb Snay
  • 35 Fighter Wing PA
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  Residents of Misawa Air Base joined together to speak about issues, concerns and ideas that they would like brought to the attention of higher command during the Caring for People Forum at Misawa Air Base, Japan, April 23, 2012.

"It's an opportunity for us to find out what the issues are from the people that are actually living here and reside here and face issues every day," said Patricia Gurr, 35th Force Support Squadron Airman and Family Services flight chief. "When we can network and collaborate, and come together as one we can do amazing things."

The forum, hosted by the Integrated Delivery System, had eight different topics that were covered including family support, special needs, single airmen and more, said Mayfield. Within each of these working groups, individuals identify the needs and areas that could be improved.

"It gives us an opportunity to brainstorm with others," said Gurr. "It makes our ideas even more important when they connect and take on merit."

The forum is ran annually throughout the Air Force.

This year, some of the topics discussed included middle school competitive sports, special needs support, sexual education programs and many more. Members from the forum voted on which topics were most important and which should be sent to Pacific Air Forces for review.

2011 was the first year that Misawa started the forum, said Mayfield. One topic that was brought up to command last year was more entertainment options. Many Individuals said that there were not enough tours and activities coming into Misawa. As a response the base received a visit from the Harlem Globetrotters and Cirque Dreams, as part of an increased effort to provide entertainment options.

"Based on the last forum I think it's very successful," said Mayfield. "It's really helped the Misawa community be heard."