Japanese, Americans remember their fallen

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- On June 19, 1945, during World War II, a formation of B-29 bombers took part in an air raid over Shizuoka, Japan. Thousands of Japanese civilians perished along with 23 Airmen when two of the B-29 bombers collided.

After the raid Mr. Fukumatsu Itoh and other survivors of the raid rescued two aircrew members, who later died from their wounds and buried the aircrew members out of respect.

A few years after the war Mr. Itoh built a memorial for both Japanese civilians and the American service members who lost their lives on that day.

On Saturday, June 20, 2007 members from Yokota Air Base participated in a memorial ceremony in Shizuoka City to honor the fallen, hosted by the Zero Fighter Admirers Club.

The ceremony consisted of remarks from host Dr. Hiroya Sugano, Yokota Air Base, Japan Self Defense Forces and survivors of the Shizuoka air raid, followed by the ritual pouring of bourbon on the B-29 monument and a Buddhist prayer.

Out of his own private subsidy, Dr. Sugano succeeded Mr. Itoh in hosting and financing the ceremony.

"I was moved by Mr. Itoh's actions in bringing the Japanese and American communities together for this ceremony," said Dr. Hiroya Sugano, director of the Zero Fighter Admirers Club. "I felt it was my duty to continue the tradition."

Dr. Sugano has been sponsoring the memorial since1972; this is his 35th year in showing his respects to the fallen.

"I find it amazing that a private citizen would take his time and personnel funding to support this memorial service," said Col. Lee Wyatt, 374th Mission Support Group commander. "The ceremony prompts healing on both the Japanese and American sides past and present."

At this year's ceremony Airmen of all ranks were invited to attend the memorial and participate in traditional rituals.

"I felt the ceremony was a great experience for us as American's to get involved in such a culturally rich ceremony," said Airman 1st Class John Ward, 374th Operational Support Squadron. "I think it is important for Airman to attend ceremonies like these, it fosters a friendship between us and the Japanese community, and it gives us an insight to Japanese traditions and cultures."

It is important that we as military members create strong bonds with our host nations, participating in ceremonies such as this can help with creating a stronger relationship.

"I have gained many friends over the years through this program promoting understanding between the two countries," said Dr. Sugano. "I believe generating a magnificent relationship with our allies is very important for all of our futures."