History Comes Alive: 18th Wing Historian engages Kadena Middle students
Kadena Air Base, Okinawa — Seventh and eighth-grade students at Kadena Middle School recently had the opportunity to learn about the history of Okinawa during a guest speaking engagement with Dr. Joseph Mason, the 18th Wing Historian.
The event was designed to deepen students’ understanding of Okinawa’s historical significance and to broaden their perspective on what it means to be a historian.
“I think a lot of students just think that if you have a history degree, then you’re going to be a history teacher,” said Kadena Middle School History Teacher Jason Pigott. “They need to understand that historians are a lot more dynamic than that—they’re archivists, restorers, preservers, and storytellers… it’s something students can aspire to.”
Students came prepared, having been introduced to the content prior to the visit. Dr. Mason’s presentation brought history to life, connecting the past to the present in a way that resonated with the young audience.
“These are the dependents of our Airmen, Marines, and other joint partners here,” Dr. Mason said. “They are really part of Team Kadena.”
Dr. Mason shared insights into his role supporting the 18th Wing, from contributing to professional military education (PME) courses to ensuring the historical accuracy and upkeep of static aircraft displays on base. He also discussed into the strategic importance of Okinawa, both historically and today.
“We call it the keystone of the Pacific. The keystone is the most important part of the arch,” he explained, noting Okinawa’s proximity to other countries in the Pacific.
Students learned about the Battle of Okinawa and how the island’s location made it a critical site during World War II, leading to intense fighting that drove Japanese forces – and civilians – underground.
As Dr. Mason shared photographs of Okinawan children participating in school activities outdoors, as well as images of U.S. military interacting with children, one student asked, “Was there a safe place during the battle?” The question sparked a thoughtful discussion about the civilian experience during wartime.
Students left the engagement with a deeper appreciation for the role of historians – not just as keepers of the past, but as active participants in shaping how history is understood and remembered.
