Annual Japanese-American Friendship Festival hosts more than 117,000 visitors

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Robin Stanchak
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  Cooler temperatures mixed with a little rain didn't stop Yokota from hosting its two-day annual Japanese-American Friendship Festival for more than 117,000 visitors Aug. 20-21.

"This is a really big day for us," said Col. Otto Feather, commander of the 374th Airlift Wing. "All year long we plan for our neighbors and friends from the local community to be able to come here on base to share a little bit about what it is that we do. It allows us to share in camaraderie and have a great time getting to know each other."

Although this year's inclement weather resulted in several aerial demonstrations having to be canceled, there was still plenty for visitors to see and enjoy while at the festival.

Activities included all-day performances at two stage areas where dance groups, live music, Japanese drum demonstrations and a Strong Man competition entertained the crowds.

"We have more than 40 hours of live entertainment this year, and with such variety there was something for everyone in the whole family to enjoy," said 1st Lt. Jose Quintanilla, Friendship Festival project officer for 2011.

Attendees were also able to view an array of static display aircraft located throughout the flightline.

Some of the U.S. aircraft on display included the C-130 Hercules, the C-12J Huron, the UH-1N Iroquois, the F-15E Strike Eagle and the FA-18C Hornet. The Japan Self-Defense Forces also provided aircraft for the event, including the UH-60JA helicopter, the P-3C Orion and the Kawasaki T-4.

"We have many aircraft here, including both JSDF and other U.S. service aircraft," said Colonel Feather. "We truly are an integrated team and are very happy to be here today to celebrate our friendship. Even in the face of a very difficult year with the earthquake and tsunami, we can come together and find comfort in our partnership."

In addition, Yokota offered visitors a chance to enjoy in foods and beverages that are common in the U.S.

"This year we had 79 vendors; 28 were businesses from the local community and 41 were private organizations from on base," said Lieutenant Quintanilla.

From hot dogs, pizza, cupcakes and chips to taco salad, steak, funnel cakes and apple pie, there was something for everyone to indulge in during the event.

As the festival drew to a close, the sights and sounds of a fireworks display could be seen above the base, the final event to celebrate another year of friendship between Yokota and its community partners.