I was delighted to find this site and read all the wonderful memories of others. My Dad was stationed at Kadena around 1966. Although I was only 6 yrs old, it was a most memorable time in my life! We lived off-base at first, and I remember walking down the hill with my Mom to buy fresh bread at the bakery. Whenever I smell fresh-baked bread, I picture that time of my life. There was also the time the Okinawan neighbor began pounding on our front door screaming in a very foreign language. Upon opening the door, we discovered that one of the small children had hit their brother/sister in the head with a large concrete block! Quite distressing for my Mom. Maybe this explains my penchant for old horror movies? I also remember a book store, which I believe was called “Tuttles”. At Naha, around 1970, I attended the elementary school at the top of the hill. Also spent many days exploring “Devil’s Cave” which was right across the street from our house. When I had saved up enough allowance, I’d go out the front gate to the Blue Store and spend my small fortune on Felix bubblegum, cracker balls and other assorted fireworks. My fondest memories concern our housekeeper while we were there. Her name was Hatseko and she quickly became a friend and member of our family. I often wonder if she recalls those times as well…
