Air Force NCO enjoys noteworthy exchange

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class David Clark
  • Air Force Print News
IRUMA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNEWS) --  During a 10-day NCO cultural exchange program with the Japanese Air Self Defense Force that ended March 20, one Air Force NCO had a chance to meet some unexpected "brass." 

While most of the NCOs found their counterpart's jobs were quite similar to their own, there was one noteworthy exception -- security forces. 

"Japanese tradition in the Security Squadron is playing the bugle," said exchange participant Tech. Sgt. Deborah Manning from the 374th Security Forces Squadron at Yokota Air Base, Japan. "They play different songs for reveille, retreat, lunchtime, end of duty, and dinner time." 

Sergeant Manning was among a dozen Air Force NCOs from Yokota AB who participated in this program that allows these NCOs to experience life as a JASDF NCO, and which fosters cooperation and understanding between the two countries.
 
Sergeant Manning said that learning to play the bugle was just one benefit of the exchange. 

"I think it's actually 're-blued' me," she said. "I find that the Japanese have immense enthusiasm, discipline and a great sense of tradition. I find that very refreshing." 

This benefit is one Sergeant Manning said she intends to capitalize on.

"I plan to go back and show my troops the pictures I've taken here and explain what the JASDF go through everyday, and how they train and how they're attitude is outstanding. Hopefully it will rub off on them," she said.

In addition to Sergeant Manning's renewed sense of service pride, she is now armed with an understanding -- and some musical talent -- that allows her to toot the horn of the Japanese NCOs' professionalism. 

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