Ann and I with our host Captain Gardner and his guest, Takeshi Jo.
Oct. 26 - U.S. Naval Facility Atsugi Japan Commanding Officer Captain E.W. Gardner recently invited Ann and me to attend the Navy Ball to celebrate the 235th anniversary of the founding of the United States Navy. We enjoyed ourselves immensely.
After the 350 American and Japanese guests were seated, the Master of Ceremonies introduced five guests of honor one by one. Standing outside the ballroom, I heard the ruffles and flourishes played on drums and a bugle 
as first Captain Gardner, then Vice Admiral Hatanaka, and then other distinguished guests entered the room.
When the Master of Ceremonies announced "James P. Zumwalt, Charge d'Affaires ad interim of the United States of America," I felt a surge of pride for the United States, its strong alliance with Japan, and for the United States Navy and its traditions.
Ann and I enjoyed the dancing after the ceremony.
After we all sat down, Captain Gardner conducted a roll call of guests. As he recognized each unit, they stood up, confirmed they were present and then shouted out a cheer in unison. Some units cheered more cohesively than others, but the Maritime Self Defense Forces, led by Vice Admiral Hiroo Hatanaka, cheered the loudest!
After sailors marched in with the American and Japanese flags (a ceremony known as "Presenting the Colors") and played the Star Spangled Banner and Kimigayo, dinner was served. I gave a short speech about the important work that the United States Navy and Japanese Maritime Self Defense Forces conduct together in promoting regional stability, protecting maritime freedom of navigation, and showing a strong and reassuring presence in the region.
The Navy birthday cake was shaped like Mt. Fuji!
Following my speech, Captain Gardner toasted the Emperor of Japan. Vice Admiral Hatanaka followed with a toast to the President of the United States. The round of traditional toasts continued with different American and Japanese participants toasting civilian and military leaders of the United States and Japan.
In my remarks I spoke of the US Navy’s strong partnership with the Maritime Self Defense Forces.
Finally I made the 13th and final toast to the United States Navy. After these traditional toasts, the music started, and Ann and I enjoyed a round of dancing. We found that these celebrations help build a sense of cohesion between the United States Navy and Japanese Maritime Self Defense Forces, contributing to a stronger alliance.
Until next time,
Jim
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