An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Photo Information

On behalf of the recipients, Sakae Hamada, right, translator with criminal investigation at the Provost Marshal’s Office, addresses Takahiro Sugawara, Director General, Chugoku – Shikoku Defense Bureau and Col. Robert V. Boucher, commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, at the Club Iwakuni ballroom Oct. 22, 2015. The Length of Service Award Ceremony recognizes the Japanese civilian’s dedication and passion while working on the installation. The ceremony gave attendees a sense of appreciation for their support and recognition as part of the team.

Photo by Pfc. Aaron Henson

Length of Service Award Ceremony recognizes Japanese civilians

22 Oct 2015 | Pfc. Aaron Henson Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan

Station and city officials recognized Japanese civilians during a ceremony at the Club Iwakuni ballroom for their years of dedicated service working at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 22, 2015.

The Length of Service Award Ceremony acknowledges the devotion and passion of Japanese civilians that have worked on the air station for at least 10 years.

“The success of any organization depends largely on its people and the air station has enjoyed many successes over the years,” said Col. Robert V. Boucher, commanding officer of MCAS Iwakuni. “Regardless of where you work, you are a part of this team and none of this would be possible without your professionalism, dedication and loyalty.”

Japanese civilians continuously contribute to building and maintaining trust between the U.S. and Japan by giving extra effort in their duties that help the air station operate smoothly.

“Working on base gave us a good opportunity to work as a team,” said Taeko Yokoyama, an administrative specialist for Armed Forces Network Iwakuni. “We feel the respect, dignity and honor through these ceremonies.”

Officials expressed their appreciation toward the attendees for their efforts and contributions to the air station.

“It is important for us all to dedicate ourselves to enhance the capability of our roles,” said Sakae Hamada, an interpreter and translator for Criminal Investigation at the Provost Marshal’s Office.

Showing appreciation helps motivate the Japanese locals to keep giving their best effort and maintain a good relationship.

“I appreciate all Americans stationed here in Iwakuni protecting our country,” said Hamada. “This award ceremony is very meaningful for us. It will encourage and help us continue to use our knowledge and experiences cultivated over the years of performing our duties.”