Keeping it McCool – PACAF command chief visits Kadena Air Base

16 February 2026

From Senior Airman Jamal Berry II, 18th Wing

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan — Each enlisted service member trains to be an expert in their field, studying the ins and outs of their craft until they know it like the back of their hand. With unbreaking focus on their duties, it can be difficult to see how one fits into the bigger picture. Jan. 22 and 23, 2026, Chief Master Sgt. Katie McCool, Pacific Air Forces command chief, visited Kadena Air Base, Japan to exchange perspectives, praise the efforts of exceptional Airmen, and experience the keystone of the Pacific.

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Chief Master Sgt. Kathleen McCool, Pacific Air Forces command chief participates in an EOD demonstration

U.S. Air Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal Airmen conduct a demolition demonstration with Chief Master Sgt. Kathleen McCool, Pacific Air Forces command chief, at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Jan. 23, 2026. The display underscored deterrence through strength by showcasing the unit’s ability to neutralize threats and protect forces across Japan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Francisco Huerta)

Chief Master Sgt. Katie McCool, Pacific Air Forces command chief, walks down an aisle at Airmen Leadership School

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Katie McCool, Pacific Air Forces command chief, speaks with Airmen during a visit to the Airman Leadership School at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Jan. 23, 2026. Professional military education develops warfighters and leaders essential to sustaining deterrence through strength and defending Japan alongside allied forces.(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jamal Berry II)

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Katie McCool, Pacific Air Forces command chief, addresses Airmen during an Enlisted All Call at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Jan. 22, 2026. The engagement reinforced deterrence through strength by ensuring Airmen remain ready, resilient, and capable of executing the mission in defense of Kadena Air Base and Japan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Francisco Huerta)

Chief Master Sgt. Katie McCool, Pacific Air Forces command chief, takes a helicopter tour of the 18th Wing

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Katie McCool, Pacific Air Forces command chief, taxis in an HH-60W Jolly Green II before being given an in-flight tour of Kadena Air Base, Japan, Jan. 23, 2026. The demonstration highlighted the 18th Wing’s advanced warfighting capabilities and commitment to rapid response in defense of Kadena Air Base and regional allies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Francisco Huerta)

McCool began the tour with an enlisted all-call that focused on encouraging Airmen to connect with Air Force values, their mission, and others. She explained that connected Airmen are essential to readiness. It concluded with three outstanding Airmen being presented with coins for their valuable contributions to the mission and Kadena Air Base as a whole.

After a Chief’s lunch, she went on a helicopter tour of Kadena Air Base in an HH-60W Jolly Green II. The tour’s purpose was to understand some of the accomplishments of the largest combat wing and to show the capabilities of the 33rd Rescue Squadron, which provides combat rescue, disaster relief, casualty evacuation and the ability to respond whether it be land or sea.

“The closest you can get to rescue assets from here, would be all the way back in Alaska,” said Chief Master Sgt. Will Cupp, 18th Wing command chief. “Our rescue unit, although small, is mighty. We work to fulfill the daily directives of Indo-Pacific commanders and are often tasked to support additional combatant command, as well.”

McCool ended the first day of her visit to Kadena, with a bang, observing, and participating in a demonstration by 18th Civil Engineer Squadron’s Explosives Ordinance Disposal flight.

The following day started with leading by example. After joining the 31st RQS for physical training, McCool invested in the next generation of noncommissioned officers. She personally mentored the Airman attending Airmen Leadership School, the first step of professional military education, by reinforcing Air Force values and discussing the challenges leaders may face in upholding them.

“We often define integrity by doing the right thing when no one is watching, but can you do the right thing when everyone is?” said McCool.

The PACAF command chief’s visit was a display of support for Airmen at all levels, showing that senior enlisted leaders care about the well-being of those they lead.