Fireworks signal end of AmericaFest 2014

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Rachelle Coleman
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  Fireworks lit up the night sky signaling the end of the 38th AmericaFest here June 29.

Rain and heat couldn't stop thousands of military members, their families and members of the local community gathered for a weekend celebration. Celebrating the 238th anniversary of America's independence, AmericaFest 2014 included aircraft displays, American food, games, live music and other types of entertainment.

The first day was open to all Status of Forces Agreement status ID card holders, and the second day was open to all SOFA status ID card holders and Japanese citizens.

"We're grateful for the friends we've made in the local community, and we're confident that AmericaFest will lead to new friendships and contribute to greater mutual respect and appreciation between our two great nations," said Brig. Gen. James Hecker, 18th Wing commander. "AmericaFest is a way for us to say 'thank you' to the men and women of Team Kadena, our partner units and their families, and also for our friends and neighbors in Okinawa and around Japan."

Musical guest 3 Doors Down headlined both nights, with other bands from the local community playing throughout both days.

"I went for the culture because it was a change with all the locals going on base and to see 3 Doors Down," said Tessa Schroader, wife of Airman 1st Class Jacob Schroader, assigned to the 18th Communication Squadron. "I feel like everything was really awesome. The live music was my favorite part."

Schroader also enjoyed some of the foods from home and getting a closer look at the military aircraft.

Air Force aircraft on display included an E-3 Sentry, KC-135 Stratotanker, F-15C Eagle, and an HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter. Other aircraft available for festivalgoers included a U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey and a Japan Self Defense Force F-15J Eagle.

AmericaFest is an event designed to promote friendship and understanding between members of the local community and Americans assigned to Kadena Air Base.