Shimoda City, Japan hosts VIP luncheon for officials and military members during 87th annual Black Ship Festival [Image 6 of 8]

SHIMODA, SHIZUOKA, JAPAN

05.20.2026

Photo by Chief Petty Officer Taylor DiMartino 

Commander, Destroyer Squadron 15

Shimoda City Mayor MATSUKI Shoichiro creates a personalized traditional Japanese calligraphy-style signature for Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 Commodore Capt. David Huljack during a luncheon for local dignitaries, U.S. officials and military members during the 87th annual Black Ship Festival in Shimoda, Japan, May 16, 2026. The festival commemorates the 1854 arrival of Commodore Matthew C. Perry and his “black ships” to Shimoda, and the subsequent signing of the Japan-U.S. Treaty of Peace and Amity marking the start of diplomacy and trade between both countries. DESRON 15 is the Navy’s largest DESRON and U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. U.S. 7th Fleet, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Taylor DiMartino)

• Date Taken: 05.20.2026
• Date Posted: 05.20.2026 06:49
• Photo ID: 9696933
• VIRIN: 260516-N-CL550-3064
• Resolution: 7935x5290
• Size: 8.88 MB
• Location: SHIMODA, SHIZUOKA, JP