U.S. Air Force flying units & Japan Air come together to conduct Aviation Event, 'Fly Girls'

On the occasion of Women's Day, 8 March the female aviators were honored in the annual "Fly Girls" program held by the 36th Airlift Squadron which was attended by more than 100 middle and high school students.

To educate students about aviation specifically the contributions female have made to aviation was the aim of this event. Members of the U.S. Air Force flying units belonging to Kadena Air Base, 459th AS and 36th AS collaborated with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force were a part of it.

Lt. Elizabeth Gilliam, 36th AS C-130J Super Hercules pilot stated about the event and how it helps to showcase the talent of female aviators. She further said about the excitement shown by other students to become a part of aviation.

The students who visited the event were provided with a chance to travel in the UH-1N Huey, C-130J, and C-12 Huron military planes which were operated by an all-female crew. The students also had a one-on-one talk with the U.S. and Japanese aircrew during the sessions.

Members including, Teara Sapp Becker, U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt., 36th AS evaluator loadmaster, Lt. Elizabeth Gilliam, Lt. Ayane Takatori, and others expressed their views during the event.

The establishment of Women Air Service Pilots, "Fly Girls" marked its 80th anniversary this year. This event also gave a chance to interact with the students and provide them with knowledge about the historical achievements accomplished by the female aviators.

To mentor Yokota's youth about the crucial role women play in aviation, the Indo-Pacific and defense of Japan shared their experiences and guided them thoroughly about aviation and aircrew.