1. What and where is the Misawa SITES page?
The Standard Installation Topic Exchange Service (SITES) is a Department of Defense sponsored program that contains information prepared for military personnel and their families.
Visit SITES' Misawa AB section for a plethora of information on Misawa AB:
SITES Home Page
2. What is my COLA while stationed in Misawa?
To see Misawa's current COLA rates, visit the DITC Overseas COLA page and use Location Code JA023 DITC Overseas Cost Of Living Allowance.
3. Where do I get information on pets, housing, local customs and traditions, etc.?
To get the latest information on housing, pets, local customs and traditions, as well as many other topics, be sure and visit the Newcomers Page.
4. Can I get a post office box early?
Can I get a Post Office Box Prior To Arriving So That I May Forward My Mail Now? Yes. Your Sponsor may set up a Post Office Box in your name one month prior to your arrival.
Note: The combination will not be given to your sponsor.
5. Can I get Navy uniforms on the air base?
There is a small selection of common uniform items in the AAFES Uniform Shop. For special items, you should order from Yokosuka Navy Base or the Uniform Center in Norfolk.
NEX Uniform Shop
While In Japan, you may dial 99-00531-11-4026 from any base telephone for toll free access to the Navy Uniform Center in Norfolk, Virginia. Misawa does have all four seasons, so a full seabag is essential.
6. Is there lodging information available for personnel on TAD in Misawa?
Lodging requests for transient personnel are handled by the Naval Air Facility Combined Bachelor Quarters (CBQ). Room Rates are $4.00 for enlisted personnel and $8.00 for officers.
For reservations, call:
DSN 315-226-3131/4483
FAX DSN 315-226-9312.
7. Is Japan safe for travel?
Is Japan Safe for Travel? According to the latest U.S. State Department travel warning, "Crimes against U.S. citizens in Japan are rare and usually only involve personal disputes, theft or vandalism."
For further information regarding overseas travel, please see:
Travel Advisory: Japan
8. How can I distinguish the ranks of the different military branches?
Misawa Air Base hosts all four services, so it is necessary to become familiar with the rank insignia of the different branches, particularly the Air Force. For a complete chart of each of the services' officer and enlisted Ranks, visit the DefenseLink Publication for Rank Insignia.
Simply remember that all four branches use the same insignia for officer ranks, and these will be clearly visible on the uniform cover, as well as the collar or shoulders of the uniform top. There are differences in customs and courtesies that you need to be aware of, as well.