Photo By Staff Sgt. Omari Bernard | Okinawan elders and Capt. Eddie Rubero, 18th Wing Chaplain, take a group photo after...... read more read more
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Keiro No Hi is a Japanese holiday that recognizes and reveres the elderly. It was officially recognized as a national holiday in 1966 and is celebrated on the third Monday of September.
“I’ve been here for two years and didn’t know about the event until last year,” said Capt. Eddie Rubero, 18th Wing Chaplain and event coordinator. “It just happened I was doing some activities in the community and I saw events occurring off base and then I started digging.”
Curious, Rubero researched the cause of the event and discovered this event is important in Japanese culture.
“I didn’t realize this event is so huge for our community,” he said. “I said to myself that we have to come up with something to honor them. Just like they do.”
After months of planning alongside Kaori Kinjo, 18th Force Support Flight assistant director, Rubero finally had the chance to honor them.
The event began with the playing of the Japanese and American national anthems. Airmen, Soldiers, Marines and even members of the local Girl Scout troop then served the elders food while conversing and taking pictures with them.
Kadena leadership dined side-by-side with the elders, sharing stories and wisdom.
After the meals were served, the choir performed again and the Amelia Earhart Intermediate School Firebird drummers performed Okinawan Eisa dance routines to the applause of the attendees.
The event concluded with presents from the chapel and closing remarks from Col. Christopher Amrhein, 18th Wing vice commander.
“For our elders who joined us, today is about honoring you,” said Amhrein.
Okinawa has the largest concentration of centurions in the world he continued.
“I just wanted to thank everyone for coming out and celebrating this and remember to take the time to appreciate, respect and love your elders.” Amhrein said. “For all of our elders in the room, and to all that arranged this, thank you very much.”
Fumiko Yamauchi, age 92, enjoyed the event and hopes for another next year. She also shared the secret to her longevity.
“The secret to my longevity is eating anything and working out at least three times a week,” Yamauchi said. “I am very glad to be able to attend Keiro No Hi today.”
| Date Taken: | 09.16.2016 |
| Date Posted: | 09.27.2016 02:37 |
| Story ID: | 210673 |
| Location: | KADENA AIR BASE, OKINAWA, JP |
| Web Views: | 153 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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