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PACAF Band Brings Holiday Cheer to Musashimurayama

  • Published Dec. 19, 2024
  • By Staff. Sgt Manuel G. Zamora
  • 374th AW/PA
Yokota Air Base --  

The U.S. Air Force Band of the Pacific performed their annual holiday with a concert at Sakura Hall in Musashimurayama, Japan, on Dec. 15.

Santa,  holding an elderly lady's hand while audiences take photos of him through the crowd.

Mr. Mark Burres, dressed as Santa, greets the audience during the Pacific Air Forces Band holiday performance at Sakura Hall in Musashimurayama, Japan, Dec. 15, 2024. Through music and shared traditions, the event highlighted the value of mutual respect and collaboration between the U.S. and Japanese communities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Manuel G. Zamora)

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The performance captivated a diverse audience with classic Christmas songs and festive surprises, Including appearances from Santa and the Grinch, adding humor and holiday spirit that delighted attendees of all ages.

The concert celebrated friendship, community, and cultural exchange, showcasing the strong bond between the U.S. Air Force and the local Japanese community. Through music and shared traditions, the event highlighted the value of mutual respect and collaboration.
The Grinch stands over the drummer with his drumstick in hand facing the towards the audience.

Ashley Ellerman, dressed as the Grinch, playfully takes a drumstick from U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Brian Ellerman, Pacific Air Forces Band drummer, during the band’s holiday performance at Sakura Hall in Musashimurayama, Japan, Dec. 15, 2024. The PACAF Band’s performance highlighted the importance of cultural exchange and strengthened ties between the U.S. Air Force and its Japanese neighbors, leaving a lasting impression on the Musashimurayama community. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Manuel G. Zamora)

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U.S. Air Force Col. Richard McElhaney, 374th Airlift Wing commander, addressed the audience during the event. “Tonight, we celebrate being one community,” said McElhaney. “Thank you for being good friends, good neighbors, and good comrades.”

The PACAF Band’s performance underscored the importance of cultural exchange and strengthened ties between the U.S. Air Force and its Japanese neighbors, leaving a lasting impression on the Musashimurayama community.

Yokota band PACAF Band community holiday music moral Strong Bonds U.S Air Force Japan friendship cultural exchange
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