Yokota announces 2014 Japanese-American Friendship Festival

Published April 4, 2014
By Public Affairs staff
374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- Air Base officials are proud to announce the Yokota Air Base Japanese-American Friendship Festival 2014.

Yokota will once again open its gates September 6 and 7 to tens of thousands of local guests in a gesture of friendship to its host nation.

"We are honored to hold this celebration in gratitude for the enduring support and friendship that we have experienced here in Japan," said Col. Mark August, 374th Airlift Wing Commander.

Due to budget cuts and a Department of Defense restriction on air shows, Yokota cancelled the 2013 festival.

"We had to make a very difficult decision last year as we endured budget cuts caused by sequestration. This year, we are that much more eager to hold this festival and strengthen the vital relationships between this base and our hosts," August said. "I can think of no greater friends than our neighbors in Japan. We look forward to hosting them once again."

This year's Friendship Festival will feature aircraft displays, American food, live music and other events.

More details concerning the festival will be posted at www.yokota.af.mil.