Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs gives thanks for Operation Tomodachi

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Katrina R. Menchaca
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNS) --  High-ranking officials from the U.S. Army, Air Force and Navy were invited to Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on June 30 in appreciation of Operation Tomodachi.

The State Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Yutaka Banno, presented each leader with a shield and bowed deeply in appreciation for their help after the March 11 9.0-magnitude earthquake that devastated the eastern coast of Japan.

"The U.S. forces quickly responded to the disaster and conducted aid activity with more than 20,000 personnel and 460 aircraft and helped the country," Banno said. "On behalf of the Japanese people, I would like to say thank you to all of you. Operation Tomodachi reminded us that Japan and the U.S. are really good friends, and you swiftly helped us out."

After the 12 officials received their shields, Lt. Gen. Burton Field, the 5th Air Force and U. S. Forces Japan commander, expressed appreciation for the recognition, saying, "We accept these honors with great humility."

Field went on to explain the motivation that drove disaster relief efforts.

"When the great earthquake happened, we were all here," the general said. "We live in Japan; we enjoy the benefits of this great country and the benefits of the culture. So, when the tragedy happened, it was not only our honor but also our duty to try to be some small part of the recovery operation. We were very honored to be there at (Japan's) side."

The earthquake and subsequent tsunami is considered by the government of Japan to be the greatest crisis to strike the country since World War II, meriting support provided by U.S. Forces Japan and several civilian agencies.

"There are not enough words to say thank you," Banno said, adding that the shields were just a small token of appreciation, compared to the deep gratitude felt by himself and his nation.