Hachinohe Response

Col. RC Craig, 35th Fighter Wing commander, Major Todd Wydra, 35th Maintenance Squadron commander and Chief Master Sgt. Russell Hastings, 35th Fighter Wing command chief, speak with Hachinohe Fire Department Aug. 9. Col. Craig, Major Wydra and Chief Hastings also visited the Hachinohe Police Department, Japanese National Police and Coast Guard to thank them for their rescue efforts in saving five Misawa Airmen from Tanahashi Cove. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Chad Strohmeyer)

Hachinohe Response

Col. RC Craig, 35th Fighter Wing commander, presents the Hachinohe Police Department with a plaque to express his gratitude for their rescue efforts in saving five Misawa Airmen, Aug. 9. Col. Craig, Major Wydra and Chief Hastings visited the Japanese National Police, Hachinohe Fire Department and Coast Guard to thank them for their rescue efforts as well. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Chad Strohmeyer)

Misawa leaders express gratitude to Hachinohe first responders

Published Aug. 11, 2010
By Staff Sgt. Chad Strohmeyer
35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- The 35th Fighter Wing commander presented the Hachinohe Coast Guard, Police and Fire Departments with plaques Monday, to show his gratitude for rescuing five Misawa Airmen from dangerous waters at Tanahashi Cove July 24.

"We have always felt welcomed in the Japanese community as friends, and when a tragedy like this happens, we sincerely appreciate the combined efforts from the first responders," said Col. RC Craig, 35th Fighter Wing commander.

Hachinohe City first responders successfully rescued the Airmen and quickly transported them to the Misawa Air Base hospital where they were treated.

"We realize it was a very large effort", said Col Craig. "We are very thankful for the many Japanese organizations that responded and saved the Airmen from the cove."

During the visit, Col. RC Craig assured Hachinohe agencies that base leadership is emphasizing the importance of swimming safety to all members and has educated them on what local areas are acceptable for swimming.