Space Force’s top enlisted leader tours Okinawa installations, highlights joint force integration

Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John Bentivegna and his spouse, Cathy Bentivegna, toured multiple military installations across Okinawa on June 12, 2026, examining how space-enabled capabilities bolster regional readiness, deepen ties with allies and partners, and support joint operations across the Indo-Pacific.

The trip began at Camp Kinser, where Bentivegna met Guardians from the 161st Electromagnetic Warfare Combat Detachment. Briefings there focused on deployed Guardians who provide space electromagnetic support to joint and coalition partners, including monitoring military satellite communications and detecting interference or jamming to help ensure assured communications across the region.

At Fort Buckner, he met personnel from the 53rd Space Operations Squadron to observe how Guardians deliver and protect satellite communications that connect combatant commanders and warfighters worldwide. “Our U.S. Space Force Guardians positioned here in theater are part of the joint force delivering the warfighting edge we need every single day,” Bentivegna said.

During a stop at Kadena, Bentivegna met with Guardians, Airmen and senior leaders and toured operational mission areas that underpin the installation’s role as the Keystone of the Pacific. The visit underscored how Kadena’s diverse missions enable the joint force to respond quickly to challenges across the region. “We need you to embrace accountability, responsibility, innovation, thinking outside the box, and critical thinking,” Bentivegna added. “Set the culture, set the standard, set the environment, and take ownership of it. Remain ready and be the deterrence that keeps this region and America safe.”

Bentivegna also flew aboard a U.S. Air Force HH-60W Jolly Green II with the 33rd Rescue Squadron to learn more about the unit’s personnel recovery mission and its role in joint and coalition operations. Cathy Bentivegna visited the Kadena Food Pantry, Kadena Youth Center and Military and Family Readiness Center, meeting staff, volunteers and community members to discuss programs that support military families, strengthen resilience and enhance mission readiness.

The itinerary included an engagement with the 19th Reconnaissance Squadron to observe intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. Bentivegna also met with members of the 353rd Special Operations Wing to discuss unique capabilities and regional partnerships that enable special operations forces across the Indo-Pacific. At the Erwin Professional Military Education Center, he spoke with Airmen and Guardians attending Airman Leadership School about leadership, professional development and preparing the next generation of enlisted leaders.

“We were honored to host Chief Master Sgt. Bentivegna and Mrs. Bentivegna and share a firsthand look at the missions being executed across Kadena,” said U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Will Cupp, 18th Wing command chief. “From airpower to space-enabled operations, this visit provided an opportunity to showcase team Kadena and the critical capabilities we deliver every day to strengthen regional security and support the joint force across the Indo-Pacific.”

Across Okinawa, Airmen and Guardians integrate air, space and joint capabilities to project combat power, enable space operations and strengthen alliances. From satellite command and control and electromagnetic monitoring to rescue, reconnaissance and special operations missions, the activities highlighted during the visit reinforced the region’s enduring importance to U.S. military readiness and security.