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Lake used to practice for Pearl Harbor now unites U.S. and Japan

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Collette Brooks
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Tohoku Town, Japan, welcomed Americans and Japanese alike to the Lake Ogawara Appreciation Event in Hohko-kan April 15, celebrating the two nations' friendship and enjoyment of seasonal festivals including the lake's local cuisine.

“Many Americans come to your town and enjoy seasonal festivals such as the cherry blossoms, lake festival, the Wakasagi marathon and the Lake Ogawara park camp site as well as special gourmet foods” said Col. R. Scott Jobe, the 35th Fighter Wing commander, addressing Tohoku Town residents during the event.

Although the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service units at Misawa Airfield used the lake to practice for the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II, its shores now serve Misawa Air Base, home to both the 35th FW and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force's 3rd Air Wing, and, through celebrations such as the Lake Ogawara Appreciation Event, the lake is now bringing the U.S. and Japan together.

Americans and Japanese alike said care and appreciation were mutual feelings shared by all in attendance. This event signifies the close relationship between Team Misawa and Tohoku Town city members.

“The partnership of local communities is vital to the U.S. and Japan friendship,” said Jobe. “Local community relations are fundamental to our alliance.”

Misawa AB residents said they look forward to joining their Japanese neighbors in more events in the future.