Yet when the project officer and the site survey lead for Kadena Elementary were establishing spectator zones for the 2025 event, they chose three areas all within 160 feet of the landing zone. As the helicopter came down to land in a field, it created powerful winds with its rotor wash. “All 19 children were involuntarily displaced by the wind gust, and the three adults were either involuntarily displaced or voluntarily moved their body to protect against the rotor wash. The ground controller responsible for monitoring the landing zone was asked to fill in for a missing volunteer the day before the event and received minimal instructions. Yet studies on rotor wash have shown there is a significant difference, investigators noted, particularly if the civilian is holding an umbrella or is older.