International exchange summer sleep over

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Meagan Schutter
  • 374th Airlift Public Affairs
Yokota Air Base, Japan --  Yokota Company Grade Officers' Council and the Junior Chamber International Japan hosted an international exchange summer sleep over event at the Taiyo Community Center Aug. 10, at Yokota Air Base, Japan.

Children from 9 to 11 years of age from Yokota and the surrounding community attended the bilateral sleep over.

The two organizations have put this event on for the past two years with the intent to build relationships between future generations and also to have fun.

"It's an amazing opportunity for Yokota's students to learn about cultures at a very young age," said Capt. Cody Vanderpol, CGOC president.

The children were encouraged to work with and meet others during the sleep over through activities such as crafts, tug-of war, water balloon toss and swimming.

During the event, the children also received a tour of Yokota, which included a tour of the fire station where they watched a fire truck demonstration and also a hands-on experience in a C-130 Hercules.

After the tour, the children were able to watch a special performance from the Pacific Air Force Band.

"It's been a very good learning experience and the games were fun," said Dakota Autrey, daughter of
Lt. Colonel Jon Autry, 374th Communications Squadron commander.

According to the organizers, the sleep over was a great success, and they plan on continuing the event in the future.