FSM President joins US Ambassador, USAF for OCD 23 Push Ceremony Published Dec. 6, 2023 By Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- Andersen Air Force Base 36th Wing honor guardsmen prepare to present the colors during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. OCD is a multinational operation that also improves interoperability and communication for future real-world humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res In a heartwarming ceremony held at Andersen Air Force Base, dignitaries, military officials, and volunteers gathered for the annual Operation Christmas Drop Push Ceremony, Dec. 4. The event marked the official commencement of the humanitarian mission that delivers essential supplies and holiday cheer to remote Micronesian islands. His Excellency Wesley Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, alongside Jennifer Johnson, U.S. Ambassador to the FSM, addressed the crowd, emphasizing the profound impact of collective goodwill and joint efforts. Bruce Best, Operation Christmas Drop island liaison and coordinator, gives remarks during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. OCD is a Pacific Air Forces’-sponsored annual multinational humanitarian mission. Throughout the operation, donated supplies are gathered by private organizations and volunteers for airdrop to 58 islands across the Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res “Operation Christmas Drop is not just about delivering tangible goods,” said President Simina. “It is a testament to the enduring partnership between our nations and our shared values of goodwill and cooperation.” As the ceremony unfolded, President Simina expressed gratitude for the dedication of the service men and women who diligently organize and execute the operation each year. “What began as a noble initiative between the U.S. and the Federated States of Micronesia has blossomed into an inspiring display of international cooperation, transcending borders and demonstrating the enduring spirit of unity. This annual tradition has evolved beyond its origins, welcoming the participation of other nations.” U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Ricky Rupp, U.S. Forces Japan and Fifth Air Force commander, and Republic of Korea Air Force Airmen pose for a group photo during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Interoperability with partner nations ensures the U.S. remains ready for whenever and wherever the next disaster occurs. Throughout OCD, U.S. aircrew will fly alongside Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Canada with additional ground support from Australia and the Philippines. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Ambassador Johnson echoed President Simina’s sentiments, emphasizing the unique nature of OCD in capturing the true spirit of Christmas. “From our friends in the Federated States of Micronesia and Palau to our friends in the U.S. military, and our partners and allies in Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, the Philippines, and Canada for sharpening their craft to conduct low-cost, low-altitude airdrops and to the volunteers and non-government organizations that collected and sorted donations for these supplies and built the drop boxes, thank you from the bottom of my heart,” she said. Ambassador Johnson also expressed her excitement about joining the 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron alongside President Simina to witness firsthand the incredible work of U.S. service members. As the ceremony concluded, both leaders conveyed their hopes for the tradition to continue serving as a beacon of goodwill and a reminder of the power of love, cooperation, and the simple delight of sharing joy during the holiday season. Operation Christmas Drop stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of unity and the commitment to making a difference in the lives of those who are often the hardest to reach. 231204-F-RU502-1104 (Left to right) Republic of Korea Air Force Col. Minji Kim, 251st Airlift Squadron commander, U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Ricky Rupp, U.S. Forces Japan and Fifth Air Force commander, and U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Kira Coffey, 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron commander, pose for a group photo during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. The U.S.-Republic of Korea relationship is strong and focused on reinforcing our security architecture of regional partnerships, including building new partnerships, and strengthening multilateral cooperation. Throughout OCD, U.S. aircrew will fly alongside Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Canada with additional ground support from Australia and the Philippines. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res SLIDESHOW | 22 images | 231204-F-RU502-1104 231204-F-RU502-1104 (Left to right) Republic of Korea Air Force Col. Minji Kim, 251st Airlift Squadron commander, U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Ricky Rupp, U.S. Forces Japan and Fifth Air Force commander, and U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Kira Coffey, 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron commander, pose for a group photo during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. The U.S.-Republic of Korea relationship is strong and focused on reinforcing our security architecture of regional partnerships, including building new partnerships, and strengthening multilateral cooperation. Throughout OCD, U.S. aircrew will fly alongside Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Canada with additional ground support from Australia and the Philippines. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 1 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1444 U.S. Air Force Airmen and Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) international observers from the United Kingdom, Sri Lanka, the Republic of Korea, Canada, Germany, Bangladesh, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Netherlands, Mongolia, and Nepal pose for a photo during the OCD 23 Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. OCD 23 helps build and enhance the necessary coordination, integration, and execution skills to support future humanitarian assistance efforts in the region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 2 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1246 Tech. Sgt. Joanne Griffin, Pacific Air Forces Regional Band vocalist, stands at attention during the posting of the colors at the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. OCD is DoD’s longest running humanitarian airlift operation. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 3 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1214 A Team Andersen honor guardsman, presents the Air Force flag during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Collaboration with nations in the Indo-Pacific region exemplifies the strength of U.S. relationships and the shared commitment to humanitarian and disaster relief efforts. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 4 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1208 A Team Andersen honor guardsman presents the Air Force flag during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. OCD continues to be an important annual tradition with a long history of providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to the Pacific region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 5 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1157 U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Ricky Rupp, U.S. Forces Japan and Fifth Air Force (5th AF) commander, and U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Shawn Aiello, 5th AF command chief, pose for a group photo with Japan Air Self-Defense Force members assigned to the 401st Tactical Airlift Squadron, during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Interoperability with partner nations ensures the U.S. remains ready for whenever and wherever the next disaster occurs. Throughout OCD, U.S. aircrew will fly alongside Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Canada with additional ground support from Australia and the Philippines. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 6 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1139 U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Ricky Rupp, U.S. Forces Japan and 5th Air Force commander, left, exchanges coins with Japan Air Self-Defense Force Air Staff Office Col. Kiyoshi Matsuura, during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Japan. The U.S.-Japan relationship is focused on reinforcing our security architecture of regional partnerships, including building new partnerships, and strengthening multilateral cooperation. Throughout OCD, U.S. aircrew will fly alongside Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Canada with additional ground support from Australia and the Philippines. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 7 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1117 U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Barnes, Band of the Pacific pianist, performs during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. The U.S focuses on reinforcing the security architecture of regional partnerships, including building new partnerships, and strengthening multilateral cooperation. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 8 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1109 The Pacific Trends ensemble of the U.S. Air Force Band of the Pacific performs during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. The U.S focuses on reinforcing the security architecture of regional partnerships, including building new partnerships, and strengthening multilateral cooperation. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 9 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1449 (Left to right) Philippine Air Force Maj. Milton Jones Perez, 222nd Airlift Squadron C-130 instructor pilot, and U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Samantha Perez, 374th Airlift Wing community engagement chief, pose for a photo during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. OCD is an opportunity to work together, to learn from one another, and to continue our successful joint efforts in support of humanitarian aid delivery. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 10 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1429 Philippine Air Force Airmen and Bruce Best, Operation Christmas Drop (OCD) island liaison and coordinator, pose for a photo during the OCD 23 Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. OCD is an opportunity to learn from allies and international partners while maintaining the readiness, proficiency, and interoperability of U.S. forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 11 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1424 Philippine Air Force Maj. Milton Jones Perez, 222nd Airlift Squadron C-130 instructor pilot, poses for a photo during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. OCD is a Pacific Air Forces’-sponsored annual multinational humanitarian mission. Throughout the operation, donated supplies are gathered by private organizations and volunteers for airdrop to 58 islands across the Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 12 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1397 U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Elijah Wright, 36th Security Forces Squadron defender, narrates during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. OCD is a Pacific Air Forces’-sponsored annual multinational humanitarian mission. Throughout the operation, donated supplies are gathered by private organizations and volunteers for airdrop to 58 islands across the Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 13 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1370 Jennifer Johnson, U.S. Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia, gives opening remarks during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. OCD continues to be an important annual tradition with a long history of providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to the Pacific region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 14 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1338 Jennifer Johnson, U.S. Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia, gives opening remarks during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. By engaging in the OCD mission, the U.S. demonstrates its commitment to regional security and determination to be a reliable partner in times of need. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 15 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1337 Jennifer Johnson, U.S. Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia, gives opening remarks during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. By engaging in the OCD mission, the U.S. demonstrates its commitment to regional security and determination to be a reliable partner in times of need. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 16 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1306 His Excellency Wesley Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, gives opening remarks during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Events like OCD 23 allow participating nations an opportunity to provide needed assistance to remote populations while also offering the ability to maintain preparedness for real-world emergencies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 17 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1299 U.S. Air Force Col. Michael Campos, 374th Maintenance Group commander, gives remarks during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. The 374th Airlift Wing’s aircraft and crews are put to the test during OCD, ensuring that they are prepared to respond swiftly and effectively to any contingencies, including disaster relief and humanitarian missions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 18 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1286 U.S. Air Force Col. Kyle Benwitz, 515th Air Mobility Operations Wing commander, gives a speech during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. OCD plays a crucial role in maintaining the airlift mission readiness in the Indo-Pacific region, where it often faces various operational challenges to include a large geographical area of responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 19 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1273 Members of the U.S Air Force, Japan Air Self-Defense Force, Royal Canadian Air Force, and Royal Australian Air Force listen to a speech during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Interoperability with partner nations ensures the U.S. remains ready for whenever and wherever the next disaster occurs. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 20 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1265 Members of the U.S Air Force, Japan Air Self-Defense Force, Royal Canadian Air Force, and Royal Australian Air Force listen to a speech during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. OCD helps build and enhance the necessary coordination, integration, and execution skills to support future humanitarian assistance efforts in the region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 21 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 231204-F-RU502-1257 From left, Lt. Gen. Ricky Rupp, U.S. Forces Japan (USFJ) and Fifth Air Force (5th AF) commander, Chief Master Sgt. Shawn Aiello, 5th AF command chief, Chief Master Sgt. Leon Calloway, USFJ senior enlisted leader, Major Gen. John Klein, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center (USAFEC) commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Courtney Freeman, USAFEC command chief, listen to an invocation during the Operation Christmas Drop 2023 (OCD 23) Push Ceremony, Dec. 4, 2023, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. OCD is an opportunity to work with allies and international partners, to learn from one another, and to continue our successful joint efforts in support of humanitarian aid delivery. Throughout OCD, U.S. aircrew will fly alongside Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Canada with additional ground support from Australia and the Philippines. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Taylor Altier) 22 of 22 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res “May this tradition continue to serve as a beacon of goodwill, reminding us of the power of love, cooperation, and the simple delightment of sharing and spreading joy to those who are often left behind,” said President Simina. “May the blessings of this holiday season rain upon our islands.”