Meeting challenges while remembering family, friends

  • Published
  • By Col. T.J. O'Shaughnessy
  • 35th Fighter Wing commander
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  Last week the 35th Fighter Wing met the challenges of our IRRE (Initial Response Readiness Exercise). We put our game faces on and quickly mobilized troops for our deployment to a simulated contingency. 

Our Airmen were right on target as they worked hard to expedite people and equipment to a wartime arena with the professionalism and proficiency that the 35th is known for. During the exercise we proved our effectiveness as a warfighting team, so thank you for all you do. 

This week our Japanese friends and neighbors are celebrating Obon. This holiday focuses on family with all members of a family, no matter how scattered, gathering together during this time to honor their ancestors. 

For the spirits to find their way home, a welcome fire is lit on the first day of Obon. And when Obon is over, the spirits are sent on their way with a send-off fire. 

While you may not celebrate Obon, the focus on family values is an idea we can all share. Take time to remember all our deployed Airmen and enjoy the good times with your loved ones.