Photo By Aya Stewart | Capt. John Bauer, commander of U.S. Naval Ship Repair Facility and Japan Regional...... read more read more
YOKOSUKA, Japan – The U.S. Naval Ship Repair Facility and Japan Regional Maintenance Center (SRF-JRMC) hosted its 54th annual Bon Odori summer festival, a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture and community, on board Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Aug. 14, 2026. Hundreds of SRF-JRMC American and Japanese employees, sailors, and their families gathered for this cherished tradition, which honors ancestral spirits and strengthens the bonds between the U.S. Navy and its host nation.
Japanese Bon Odori is a traditional dance performed during the Obon holiday, a multi-day Buddhist holiday honoring the spirits of ancestors in mid-August. The festival has been a mainstay for the command, held annually since 1968. The event serves as a cultural bridge, allowing American personnel and their families to experience a cornerstone of Japanese summer traditions alongside their Japanese colleagues. The event is hosted by the SRF-JRMC Friendly Society, an organization made up of the command's Japanese employees, and plays a key role in coordinating the festival each year.
In his welcoming remarks, Bauer emphasized the event's deep significance. "This Bon Odori festival is more than just a summer celebration. It is a wonderful opportunity for us to come together, strengthen our organizational bonds, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of our host country," Bauer said. He noted the occasion's importance in fostering relationships. "It’s a time to honor our ancestors, appreciate the traditions of Japan, and build lasting friendships between our American and Japanese employees and their families."
Bauer welcomed distinguished guests, including U.S. Navy and Japan Maritime Self Defense Force leadership and SRF-JRMC retirees. Shigeru Tanaka, the Senior Adviser to the Mayor of Yokosuka, read a letter from the Mayor, Katsuaki Kamiji, who was unable to attend.
“I know it has been hot and humid outside, but I hope everyone has a fun time enjoying Bon Odori this evening,” Tanaka read. “I would like to express my deep respect for the dedication and commitment of each and every team member and the proud spirit of craftsmanship that is the foundation of the SRF. I hope that this summer festival further deepens our U.S.-Japan friendship.”
Masaki Fukuda, president of the SRF-JRMC Friendly Society, also addressed the audience. “I would like to express my deepest gratitude to our Captain, all the shops and codes, USCS and USN personnel, and the board members and officers of the Friendly Society who worked so hard to make this event possible,” said Fukuda. “Please relax, have fun, and enjoy this historic SRF Summer Festival to the fullest!”
After the official remarks, the evening featured traditional music, dancing around the iconic "yagura" tower, festival games, and classic Japanese food, continuing a decades-long tradition of fellowship and cultural exchange.
For over 75 years, SRF-JRMC has been the linchpin of U.S. Naval operations in the region by providing intermediate and depot level repair for the ships of the U.S. Navy and the U.S. 7th Fleet.
| Date Taken: | 08.16.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 09.01.2026 03:46 |
| Story ID: | 573642 |
| Location: | YOKOSUKA, KANAGAWA, JP |
| Web Views: | 47 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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