by Master Sgt. Matthew Osborn
35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
5/23/2011 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- Three Airmen and one Air Force dependent previously reported as missing were located today. The individuals, who live at Misawa Air Base, went missing after they departed for an afternoon kayak trip on Sunday.
A combined search for the individuals that began early this morning included members of the Japanese Coast Guard, Japan Air Self-Defense Force, U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force Airmen and dependents from Misawa Air Base. The individuals were found at approximately 3 p.m. floating about 10 miles off the eastern coast of Honshu, the main island of Japan. The four individuals were taken to a nearby medical facility for evaluations and treatment.
"We are overjoyed that our family members have been found" said Col. Michael D. Rothstein, 35th Fighter Wing commander. "We coordinated closely with the Japanese government and used all available resources to find them. The successful rescue of these kayakers is a testament to the strong partnership we have with our sister services and Japanese counterparts. We certainly could not have accomplished this daunting task without the selfless service and determination of all involved."
Comments
5/24/2011 2:52:31 AM ET Absolutely amazing rescue Proud to be a part of the Misawa team yet again
MSgt Wallace, Misawa AB Japan
5/23/2011 10:33:27 PM ET The US Army was also involved in the search and recovery efforts as were our civilians. This was truly an effort from the entire Misawa community as well as our friends in the Japanese community.
