OKINAWA, Japan - The 18th Security Forces Squadron hosted an open house event for Okinawan law enforcement members Oct. 22, throughout various SFS facilities.

Various interactivities were held to let the local police see Kadena’s police practices and to maintain a healthy relationship between both departments.

“We are honored to host our downtown law enforcement partners for this first-ever subject matter expert exchange,” said Lt. Col. Sarah Babbitt, 18th SFS commander. “The basis of teamwork is establishing trust. There’s no better way to establish trust than to open our squadron to them and explain what we do for the 18th Wing and the U.S. Air Force and how they are vital to our mission success.”

This event allowed both police forces to discuss their unique capabilities and practices to form a stronger relationship and better understand one another’s missions.

“I’m proud to have the opportunity to be a liaison between Security Forces and the Okinawa Police Station,” said Master Sgt. Anthony Johnson, 18th SFS anti-terrorism program manager. “I think that it’s a good thing that there’s a rapport between the U.S. and the Okinawans here.”

Okinawan police were given a welcome brief by Babbitt, shown a K-9 demonstration, given a tour of the SF facilities, received a flight line orientation and were invited to a BBQ to meet and mingle with Kadena’s members. The Okinawan police also put on a martial arts demonstration for attendees.

“When accidents happen off base, we respond, and at the same time security forces members respond,” said Tatsunori Higa, Okinawa Police Station patrolman, traffic accident investigation section. “[While on the job] we talk to each other only about job stuff. That’s it, and we didn’t know each other personally. This is the only opportunity to hang out with security forces members. This event makes us more tight, making a better relationship with them.”