YOKOSUKA, Japan - Fleet Activities (FLEACT), Yokosuka and its host nation recently celebrated the 160th anniversary of U.S. Navy Commodore Matthew Perry’s landing in Kurihama as a part of the Kurihama Perry Festival, July 14.
The Kurihama Perry Festival is a celebration commemorating the landing of Commodore Matthew Perry. Perry, a Sailor in the Navy in the mid nineteenth century, was also a diplomat, naval reformer, and advocate of the steam Navy. His arrival at Uraga, Japan in 1853 with his fleet of four infamous “Black Ships” brought about the end of Japan’s policy of isolation while ushering the nation into the modern era.
FLEACT, Yokosuka was represented by Commander, FLEACT, Yokosuka Capt. David A. Owen during a parade in which he traveled via drop top in downtown Kurihama.
Prior to the start of the parade, Owen joined Yokosuka Mayor Yuto Yoshida to offer flowers at a memorial monument built on the ground that Perry landed upon during his arrival to Japan. A memorial ceremony was then held at nearby Yokosuka Sogo High School.
“Commodore Perry’s arrival began the building blocks of a relationship with the nation that has lasted to this day,” said Owen. “The historical impact of his efforts have enabled us to maintain our ongoing friendship, while enduring a solid alliance that has proven to stand strong throughout the course of time.”
When Yoshida addressed the crowd, he echoed Owen’s message.
“Commodore Perry predicted that Japan would become a powerful competitor for the United Sates if Japan obtains the technique of civilized society,” said Yoshida. “I will use the technological capability of Yokosuka and its historical heritage to let others know the attraction of this town.”
Although he was not in attendance, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Fumio Kishida provided a statement to be read during the ceremony.
“I would like to express my appreciation to the Yokosuka residents who established a good relationship with U.S. forces which supports smooth operation for the U.S.-Japan alliance,” read the Ministry of Foreign Affairs officer on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs Fumio Kishida.
Spectators had the opportunity to taste various foods from street-side venders, shop in bazaars and observe live performances.
“Whenever I come down here to Yokosuka, I enjoy the atmosphere because the base is here,” said Sandra Marks, an Australian expatriate. “To be here amidst several Americans kind of makes me feel at home and just adds to the Japanese culture that you take in.”
To close out the festivities, those in attendance had to opportunity to view an amazing array of fireworks. For the locals, it was exciting to be able to share a part of their neighborhood with the base.
“What I would hope is that the Americans can take a piece of Japanese culture back with them to the base and share it with their friends,” said Kenji Okamoto, a resident of Kurihama. “I hope they can influence their friends to go out and experience all the great things that Japanese has to offer. A lot of things present a good opportunity for the family to do something together.”