251218-F-MU566-1191
From the left, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Major Gen. Ishihara Yoshitaka, 1st Airborne Brigade commanding general, and U.S. Air Force Capt. Lauren Casulli, outgoing 36th Airlift Squadron chief of theater engagement, pose for a photo during the Japan Defense Cooperation Medal ceremony at Camp Narashino, Dec. 18, 2025. The ceremony highlighted the enduring alliance between the U.S. and Japan, and underscored the shared commitment to cooperation and mutual respect that strengthens operations across the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kayla Karelas)