United States
Australia
United Kingdom
Europe
New Zealand
Canada
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan — U.S. Air Force Gen. Kevin Schneider, commander of Pacific Air Forces, visited Kadena Air Base on April 29, 2026, to review operations and underscore the base’s role in sustaining combat power across the Indo-Pacific.
During the visit, Schneider met with Airmen across intelligence, maintenance, logistics, air mobility, fighter operations and combat search and rescue to see how the 18th Wing brings together capabilities in support of joint and allied missions. As part of an immersion tour, he flew aboard an HH-60W Jolly Green II assigned to the 33rd Rescue Squadron and observed the coordination required for combat search and rescue.
“Search and rescue is fundamental to how we sustain combat power, and visits like this offer a firsthand look at the professionalism and readiness of the force,” said U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. John Gallemore, 18th Wing commander. “It provides insight into how we execute the mission and reinforces confidence in Kadena’s ability to respond when called upon across the Indo-Pacific.”
Schneider received mission briefings, observed operations across the installation, and reviewed infrastructure initiatives aimed at strengthening readiness and long-term mission sustainment. He also met with Airmen and leaders from across the wing to discuss readiness, mission challenges, morale and quality-of-life topics.
“The dedication and passion I saw from the Airmen here is exactly why Kadena represents the standard for how we generate and sustain combat power in the Indo-Pacific,” said Schneider. “Their ability to integrate operations, maintenance, logistics and support functions ensures we remain ready to deter aggression and project power across the region.”
As a forward-operating hub and the Air Force’s largest combat wing, Kadena’s strategic location and integrated capabilities enable the 18th Wing to deliver rapid, credible combat power alongside allies and partners across the Indo-Pacific. Engagements like this help senior leaders stay connected to the Airmen and capabilities that translate strategy into operational execution.
