MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- Resiliency days are a familiar, recurring concept among the U.S. Air Force community and focus on Comprehensive Airman Fitness to build and maintain a thriving population. The 35th Fighter Wing Staff Agencies took its scheduled day one step further, here, Oct. 27.

The 35th FWSA conducted its resiliency events alongside the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, reinforcing the strong bonds with its allies.

“These days give us time to step back and refocus on resiliency for people who have gotten out of the habit or are working on making themselves better,” said Debbie Stevens, 35th Fighter Wing community support coordinator.

Over 150 personnel from the JASDF's 3rd Air Wing and the 35th FWSA took part in a luncheon, nature trail cleanup and recreational games, hosted at Davy Jones’ locker.

“The luncheon was nice because it was such a friendly and casual setting,” said Noriko Ohtani, a 3rd Air Wing, Japan Air Self-Defense Force official. “It gave us a time to mingle with our counterparts in person, rather than through email or phone, put work aside and experience American food.”

These kinds of bilateral activities and functions help keep the alliances, and friendships, strong in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

“When we are resilient together, we are stronger together,” said Col. Paul D. Kirmis, the 35th Fighter Wing vice commander. “Our ability to efficiently work with our Japanese allies directly correlates to the success of our bilateral missions. Fluidly executing small goals and strengthening community relationships in a non-military setting will compound and widen the scope of positive impact on Team Misawa.”