MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- The United States Ambassador to Japan, Howard H. Baker made his way to the Station for a brief visit Jan. 30.
The ambassador frequented a few of the facilities with Col. Dave Darrah, Station commanding officer before coming to the Headquarters Building to speak with officers and staff noncommissioned officers. But first he wished to recognize one Marine in attendance.
Sgt. Angel Luciano, a detention specialist with the Provost Marshal's Office was given a Navy Achievement Medal for his efforts in devoting countless hours in several projects ranging from Martial Arts to the basics in riot control formations.
"I felt very privileged and honored that Ambassador Baker took time and presented the award to me," said Luciano. "Mr. Baker is a great leader and a successful man. It was a great honor to be given this award by him."
After the award ceremony, Baker greeted the senior personnel here with admiration for their efforts. "The U.S./Japan relationship is the best it has ever been," said the 26th U.S. Ambassador to Japan. "I have come here to pay my respects to you for the job you do and the role you play in that relationship."
Baker went on to say that the future of the relationship looks bright and he cannot wait to see what happens 10 years down the road.
"The presence of American military in this area of the world is incredible," Baker told assembled guests. "In years to come, I predict U.S. and Japan will still be friends and still be strong allies."