Official websites use .mil
Secure .mil websites use HTTPS
U.S. Air Force Col. Richard McElhaney, 374th Airlift Wing commander, left, and Japan Air Self-Defense Force Col. Hiroyuki Ishii, Operational Support Wing commander, pose for a photo during the JASDF mochi-pounding ceremony at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Dec. 13, 2024. The annual event emphasizes cultural exchange and strengthens the partnership between U.S. and Japanese forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class David S. Calcote)