Kadena airman dies at off-base home on Okinawa

U.S. Air Force officials are investigating the death of an airman assigned to Kadena Air Base who was found at an off-base residence on Okinawa. Kadena Air Base is home to the Air Force’s 18th Wing on Okinawa. (Keishi Koja/Stars and Stripes) A U.S. airman assigned to Kadena Air Base died late Wednesday at an off-base residence on Okinawa, according to the 18th Wing. The airman died at 11:58 p.m., the wing said in a news release Thursday. The military is withholding the service member’s identity until at least 24 hours after the family has been notified. The cause of death has not been disclosed, and the incident remains under investigation.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our Airmen,” wing commander Brig. Gen. John Gallemore said in the release. “Our hearts are with their family, friends and teammates during this incredibly difficult time.” Wing spokesman Tech. Sgt. Kyle Johnson declined by phone Thursday to provide further details, citing the ongoing investigation and notification of next of kin. “Our priority is caring for those affected by this loss and ensuring they have the support they need,” Gallemore said in the release. “We ask that everyone respect the family’s privacy as they grieve.” Brian McElhiney is a reporter for Stars and Stripes based in Okinawa, Japan. He has