MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- The 35th Fighter Wing (FW) recently hosted an open forum Town Hall, focusing on improved transparency, resource updates and community dialogue. U.S. Air Force Col. Paul Davidson, 35th FW commander, and other leaders across the base took questions from the audience and shared key insights and fielded questions from attendees, underscoring the wing’s commitment to mission, culture and community.
Panel Members
- Megan Davidson, Key Spouse (Key Support Liaison)
- Michickia Carter, AAFES Representative
- Lt. Col. Nicole Graves, 35th Medical Group Representative
- Terrance Cobb, Edgren Middle High School Principal
- Maj. Jessica Richmond, 35th Force Support Squadron Commander
- Maj. Evan Dicks, 35th Civil Engineering Squadron Operations Flight Commander
- Maj. Ana Smith, 35th Civil Engineering Squadron Engineering Flight Commander
Topics Discussed
- Air Conditioning & Facilities
Progress updates on residential and facility AC installation projects, including gyms and temporary lodging facilities.
- Road & Building Infrastructure
Status of ongoing road repairs near Edgren MiddleHigh School and theater redevelopment plans, including a new Combat Readiness Training Center and second-run movie venue.
- Community & Family Events
Future Halloween and youth activities, including trick-or-treat, haunted house, and enhanced fitness center access for minors.
- School & Youth Programs
Classroom staffing, youth sports offerings, physicals, and special education support.
- Medical & Family Support
Challenges accessing pediatric records overseas, support resources (KSL program), and digital communication platforms.
- Retail & Exchange Services
Enhancements to North Base retail facilities, Lawson’s convenience store negotiations, and short-term solutions like food trucks and restocking plans.
Key Updates & Concerns Addressed
Air Conditioning (AC)
The base reaffirmed its commitment to installing AC across housing and facilities. Housing renovations with AC continue annually, with gym and temporary lodging facility projects underway. Though funding constraints and long planning cycles remain, community members were assured these projects remain high priority.
Infrastructure & Safety
Repairs on the road near Edgren Middle High School are wrapping up after delays caused by summer weather. Safety measures—including signage and flaggers—remain in effect. The demolition of the old theater is underway to make room for the upcoming Combat Readiness Training Center. Entertainment will be facilitated in the interim via a converted theater at the Mokuteki Ballroom, anticipated to open early fall 2026.
Community Events
Halloween festivities are scheduled for October 31, including special time slots for Exceptional Family Member Program families and a “haunted house” experience hosted by the 35th Communications Squadron. Fitness center policies have been updated — youth ages 12–15 may now use the facility with parental supervision, provided a parent or guardian completes a required orientation and signs a waiver. Access for this age group excludes fitness classes. Game rooms in Community Commons remain available for youth with proper registration.
Schools & Youth Sports
Class sizes are currently larger than desired, but efforts are being made to increase staffing this fall, with district leadership meeting to discuss staffing solutions. Youth sports programs are active but facing coach shortages, especially in cheerleading. Expect updates on flag football (transitioning to camp format) and cheerleading soon. Issues with accessing sports physicals are being addressed. Some families report success with local off-base clinics.
Medical Access
Parents voiced concerns about limited access to health records for children aged 13–18 due to system restrictions. In response, the 35th Medical Group is enabling paper record disclosures and short-term fixes while working to resolve electronic access.
Retail & Food Services
Work continues to bring a convenience store to north base housing; infrastructure hurdles may delay the timeline. Temporary food solutions, like mobile trucks and planned food court enhancements, are underway. Inventory shortages—particularly beverages—are being addressed with shipments expected in early October.
Key Support Liaison (KSL) Program
The updated KSL program, formerly known as the Key Spouse Program, now includes spouses, civilians, and service members. KSLs serve as conduits for information and resource guidance—not event planners or counselors. Units are encouraged to engage with their KSLs for support and volunteer opportunities.
Closing Remarks
Participants were directed to consult via the Air Force Connect app, base Facebook pages, or their KSLs for town hall updates and resources. Leadership reinforced the importance of short- and long-term strategies, likening small wins—like a new coffee shop on north base—to milestones in broader, ongoing efforts.
I want to thank each of you for being here today and for your commitment to making Misawa an incredible community. We're not just a base - we're a family. Every question, every concern you've shared today helps us improve and grow stronger together. Our mission isn't just about executing our military objectives, but about building relationships, supporting each other and creating an environment where everyone feels valued. We might not solve every challenge immediately, but we'll keep working together, stay transparent and continue to communicate. Misawa is special because of the people in this room - your dedication, your passion and your willingness to engage. Thank you for being part of our team, our mission and our community..Col. Davidson
35th Fighter Wing hosts open forum town hall
An attendee asks panel members a question during a 35th Fighter Wing (FW) open forum town hall at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Aug. 27, 2025. The town hall was initiated by 35th FW leadership to promote transparency, improve communication, and address community concerns. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle)
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35th Fighter Wing hosts open forum town hall
Terrance Cobb, Edgren Middle High School Principal, speaks during a 35th Fighter Wing (FW) open forum town hall at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Aug. 27, 2025. The town hall was initiated by 35th FW leadership to promote transparency, improve communication, and address community concerns. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle)
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35th Fighter Wing hosts open forum town hall
Attendees listen to panel members speak during a 35th Fighter Wing (FW) open forum town hall at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Aug. 27, 2025. The town hall was initiated by 35th FW leadership to promote transparency, improve communication, and address community concerns. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Patrick Boyle)
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