Japanese commend Airman for volunteer efforts Published June 19, 2007 By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Eileen Kelly Fors American Forces Network Yokosuka News Bureau TOKYO (AFPN) -- The Japanese government recently recognized a 730rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron officer in charge for his community volunteer efforts and charitable ways at a ceremony at the Meiji-Jingu Shrine in Yoyogi Park, Tokyo. During the 57th Annual Spring Zenkokai Commendation Ceremony, Capt. Chad Oba was recognized for his help at a local orphanage. Captain Oba's commitment to the orphanage was a way to show the Japanese children American culture while experiencing their ways of life. "I think Captain Oba is a fine example of what we've been trying to push throughout our Air Force, in our squadron and throughout the entire base of Yokota," said Lt. Col. Scott Graham, 730rd AMS operations officer. "He puts himself last and spends many hard hours working not only for his Airmen but for everybody around him," the colonel said. "We are very proud of Captain Oba. He helps sponsor an off-base orphanage - helps them out and just plays with the kids, does a little work around the area. Last year we brought 16 bikes out to the orphanage and they were just ecstatic," Colonel Graham said. "It very hard being in a country where we don't speak the same language and a lot of misunderstandings are real easy to come by - but when we're out there in the community and show we care and that we're trying to help them - it makes it much easier for them to understand us and come get closer to us," Colonel Graham said. "We're able to go into the community and not be outsiders, not be Americans and Japanese, we can be people together working toward common goals." Captain Oba was the only Air Force servicemember among the awardees. His positive interaction with Japanese citizens is a common goal for Airmen across Japan. "It's really quite an honor," Captain Oba said. "I am one of hundreds of volunteers at Yokota that do great things to try and help the community day in and day out. I am very humbled to be honored." Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) Click here to view the comments/letters page