Operation KUDOS brings deployment experience to Yokota youth
U.S. Air Force Col. Richard McElhaney, 374th Airlift Wing commander, delivers opening remarks during Operation Kids Understanding Deployment Operations at Yokota Air Base, Japan, April 11, 2026. Operation KUDOS is an annual event where children participate in a mock deployment using engaging activities to simulate the steps of a real deployment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Samantha White)