MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Station residents joined together with members of the local Japanese community to participate in a ceremony in a long-standing tradition at the Kintai Bridge April 29.
Participants dressed in traditional garments and walked in a parade for the 25th Annual Kintai Bridge Festival.
More than 45,000 people, 10,000 more than last year, viewed 20 American adults and children, as well as hundreds of Japanese, who suited up for the annual festival and the main event, a parade across the Kintai Bridge.
"It was nice to see and participate in such a big event in the community," said Erick Ramirez, who portrayed a tomo samurai, or samurai guard.
The parade began on the east side of the Nishiki River by Iwakuni Elementary School, crossing the Kintai Bridge into the Kikko Park area.
"The Japanese were really kind and helpful," said James Lafferty, also portraying a tomo samurai. "They seemed happy that we were participating in the event and I felt they enjoyed seeing us dressed up."
Not only did the Americans enjoy the time spent with the Japanese, they also got an opportunity to learn about their culture and participate in the event. The Japanese also enjoyed the company and help of the Americans.
"The Americans were very nice and I made some friends," said Mizuki Kawai, Miss Iwakuni contestant and a Jourou, the highest-ranking queen's maid. "I really enjoyed being in the parade with them. I hope I can do it again next year."