NO SUCH THING - Tony Cala - Lance E. Lee Podcast Episode #58

My guest today is Tony Cala, the general manager of ten years at the Tokyo American Club. Back in 2012, as president, hiring him was one of my best memories and successes. Tony was born in Tokyo and, in his infancy, relocated to the US and back to Yokota, Japan, due to his father’s change of stations with the USAF. Tony attended the St. Mary’s International School along with the other military children, and after graduating, he continued his studies in California. In his junior year, Tony was offered a job at the Pacific Stars and Stripes Yokota AF base bureau. From there, his career enmeshed in the US military began and lasted for over three decades. His directorial positions in the recreational department at the Tama Hills and the Yokota AF base came with a wide range of responsibilities from rebuilding and engineering, F&B, lodging, to MWR (morale, welfare, and recreation). Tony shared the stories behind the evacuation of the US personnel and preparation for the US civilian exodus during 3/11. I had to also ask about the legend of the “St. Mary’s mafia,” and Tony reconfirmed the bond of the brotherhood :)