What is the newcomer’s orientation in Okinawa? Where is it? What do I need to bring? As the wheels of the plane touch down on the tarmac in Okinawa, a whirlwind of excitement, anticipation, and perhaps a bit of trepidation fills the hearts of newcomers. Attending the Newcomer’s Orientation in Okinawa is one crucial step before diving headfirst into the adventure that awaits Air Force families. This is a crash course in acclimating to life on the island and learning about all the resources that Kadena AB has to offer you and your family.
What Is The Newcomer’s Orientation in Okinawa?
The Newcomer’s Orientation in Okinawa for Air Force families is a mandatory event for all inbound military personnel and DoD civilians. Spouses and dependents over 16 years of age are encouraged to attend. ALL parts of the Orientation are mandatory. Please ensure no other appointments are scheduled during the Orientation.
The Newcomer’s Orientation in Okinawa will provide you with essential information regarding resources and information related to Kadena AB and Okinawa. Several presenters from different programs on base will provide an overview of their services. You will also have an opportunity to meet with representatives from the Finance office to complete any PCS-related travel reimbursement.
Where and When Is The Newcomer’s Orientation?
The Newcomer’s Orientation in Okinawa is held at the Schilling Community Center, building #455, on Kadena AB. It is held every Thursday of the month from 09:30am – 1:30pm. Briefing begins promptly at 09:30am; so you must be present by 09:20am. Keep in mind that there will be a break for lunch.
How Do I Register For The Newcomer’s Orientation in Okinawa?
Head to Kadena Military and Family Readiness Center’s (M&FRC) event calendar to select an open Thursday date. Click the green “RSVP” button in the top right of the page.
What Do I Need To Bring To The Newcomer’s Orientation?
Please bring the following to your Newcomer’s Orientation:
- two copies of your orders
- Wing in-processing checklist (obtained by your sponsor)
- Passports for SOFA stamp (if applicable)
- MilSuite Newcomers Orientation Course certificate*
- Completed Tricare Enrollment Form** (in blue or black ink).
*Instructions for logging into milSuite are located within the event, to the left of the RSVP button.
**If you are unable to print the Tricare Enrollment Form, a Tricare representative will provide blank copies to complete at the Newcomer’s Orientation.
The Newcomer’s Information Fair
The Newcomers Information Fair will be in the main lobby and opens at 08:45am. The fair is an excellent opportunity to meet and receive resources from various organizations and helping agencies in the Kadena community.
Childcare Information
If childcare is needed, please annotate on your registration form through the website. Once received, the M&FRC staff will contact you beforehand to coordinate childcare with Family Child Care (FCC) providers.
Families can receive up to 20 hours of childcare for each child within 60 days of their PCS arrival at Kadena. Childcare is available in licensed FCC homes on the installation or Air Force affiliated homes off base, paid for by the Air Force Aid Society. You must present a certificate of eligibility and immunization records for each child to the care provider to verify eligibility.
What To Wear To The Newcomer’s Orientation
For Active-duty wear your uniform of the day and for Civilians it’s best to dress in business casual.
More Questions?
Contact 718FSS.FSH.MFRCRelocations@us.af.mil.
An OCONUS PCS can be stressful, but knowing what to expect can be a huge help. Welcome to Okinawa! And have fun at your upcoming orientation!
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Kaily Watson is an Air Force spouse living in Okinawa with her husband and 4 cats. She is a criminal defense and insurance bad faith paralegal working remotely for two law firms based in Washington. Kaily is a master’s degree holder in legal studies and has a passion for advocacy.
The Watsons arrived to Okinawa in September 2023 and have been enjoying every second. Snorkeling, coffee tasting, and shopping are some of her favorite things to do.
