Japan deployment invaluable for Luke reservists Published May 18, 2015 By Lt. Col. Debra Tofil 944th Mission Support Group deputy commander LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- The 944th Force Support Squadron gained invaluable experience during their deployment to Kadena Air Base, Japan, home of the 18th Fighter Wing and the largest Force Support squadron in the Air Force. Comprised of 2,500 active duty, Department of Defense civilians, contractors and Japanese national employees, the 18th FSS provides direct community wellness activities and support during war and peacetime to more than 24,000 members at Kadena. The 27 members of the 944th FSS learned both professionally and culturally during their two-week tour. "My active duty NCO in charge took the time apart from my flight kitchen duties to mentor me on enlisted performance report bullet writing, even though I'm a senior airman," said Senior Airman Michelle Nobles, 944 FSS service technician. "It was very valuable to me and I learned a lot from her." Luke reservists were assigned to augment the 18th FSS in personnel readiness, lodging, recreation/fitness, dining facilities, customer service, personnel systems and force management. They also provided 24-hour coverage in some sections and participated in a local chemical gear exercise. "I was originally in the dining facilities but the 18th FSS needed me to augment mortuary affairs during the exercise," said Tech. Sgt. Keisha Mason, 944th FSS, services journeyman. "I was able to experience processing remains from start to finish and now I know where I fit in the process and how important what I do, really is."