Tomodachi Reception for U.S. Army and Air Force Personnel (March 23, 2018)

On March 23, at the Consul General’s Official Residence, a Tomodachi Reception was held for U.S. Army and Air Force personnel who have been stationed in Japan or worked with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. The event was the third such reception hosted by the Consulate-General of Japan in Seattle to build stronger connections between Japan and U.S. military personnel.
During the opening speeches, Consul General Yoichiro Yamada and Lieutenant General Gary Volesky, Commander of I Corps and Joint Base Lewis-McCord, spoke about the strong security relationship between the U.S. and Japan. General Volesky called the event “another demonstration of the importance of our relationship together, not only as nations but as friends.” Walter Tanimoto, Commander of the Nisei Veterans Committee, then gave a toast to the long history of Japan-U.S. security cooperation.

Over 70 Army and Air Force personnel and their spouses from Joint Base Lewis-McCord were in attendance, along with members of the Nisei Veterans Committee, and other representatives from local community organizations.

The Consulate-General of Japan in Seattle hopes that this reception provided an opportunity for Army and Air Force personnel to reflect on their service in Japan. We look forward to building and further strengthening connections between the U.S. military and Japan through future events.