For the primary time in its 79-year historical past in Japan, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Japan Engineer District (USACE JED) opened its doorways to the Japanese public with a “Winter Outreach Event.”
The occasion aimed to foster interplay with Japanese residents and showcase the constructive contributions the USACE makes, not just for American navy bases within the area but in addition for Japan itself.
Approximately 20 “JED fans” have been randomly chosen from entries submitted through the District’s Japanese X (previously Twitter) account, with some attendees touring throughout the nation to take part. The occasion was organized by the District Public Affairs Office, led by Community Outreach Coordinator Hitomi Tanaka and the District Public Affairs Officer, Charlie Maib.
“Outreach events like this are important because they help lift the veil of mystery that often exists between overseas military bases and the local population,” stated Maib. “We’re able to explain the critical role the U.S. plays in ensuring the safety of the Pacific region, while also showcasing the great work JED has done to benefit Japan.”
During the occasion, attendees met JED Commander COL Patrick Biggs, realized concerning the historical past of the District in Japan, and toured Camp Zama, the Army publish the place the Japan Engineer District headquarters is positioned.
“It was so much fun! I got to meet the JED mascot robot, visit areas that are usually off-limits, and enjoy lunch like an American,” stated one attendee.
The group additionally visited a building web site on the east facet of the publish, close to the “walk-in gate,” the place JED’s Kanagawa Resident Office (KRO) is overseeing a significant venture.
The $26 million (5.7 billion yen) AR444 ‘Reconstruct Tunnel Road’ venture includes realigning roads, creating parking areas, and widening a tunnel street utilized by Sagamihara City, which runs by means of the bottom.
“It was a very full day,” stated one other attendee. “Everything was explained in a simple, easy-to-follow way. I never would have learned about the U.S.-Japan partnership or had the chance to see what JED does without this event.”
Although this was JED’s first outreach occasion in Japan, Maib hopes it will not be the final.
“The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has contributed so much to modern Japan-often without recognition-that it’s rewarding to share this knowledge with those who benefit from our work,” Maib stated. “It strengthens the bond between our two cultures.”
Source: U.S.Army