Oct 1st 2017 O.A.
2nd Annual Service in Japan Alumni Reception
The 2nd Annual Service in Japan Alumni Reception honoring the Japanese and US veterans and their families, was held on Thursday, September 7th at the official residence of the Consul General of Japan in LA. There are over 10 thousand US military related individuals and their family members, including civilian employees of the army residing in Japan. This is the 2nd time for this reception party held by the Consulate General of Japan in LA. Military personels that once resided in Japan were invited, as it was aimed to strengthen interests and continue the friendship bonds between the two countries even when they shall return home to the US. About 100 individuals from current on-duty, first reserved to veterans attended. They introduced themselves and spoke about their experience in Japan and socialized with one another. At the opening greeting, Consul General, Akira Chiba stated “We are still very grateful about the Operation Tomodachi that happened back in the year 2011 during the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake. And also stated “The bond we currently have will be essential when facing the current tense situation of the Asia Pacific Ocean region.” Responding to this statement, a guest speaker from the US Navy stated “We wish to keep and continue having the strong US/Japan friendship even in these difficult times.” Each person stated their feelings as well. At the event, Japan’s must see places and a model of the Japan House that will be opening at Hollywood was introduced. Japanese foods were also served, like the local sakes, sushi, takoyaki and food menus from the Naha Air Base Curry. Attendees also enjoyed Japanese culture through performances by the Minyo Station and Ryukyu Matsuri Taiko.
California Coastal Cleanup Day
Every 3rd Saturday of September is the worldwide Coastal Cleanup Day. Local volunteers also gathered up on beaches on Saturday, September 16th to clean their beaches with their bear hands. City of Torrance, Torrance Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the American Honda cooperated for the cleanup of this Torrance Beach. Pariticipants brought buckets and small to large trashbags as they thoroughly cleaned the 1.5 mile long beach.