On July 1, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense Matsukawa bestowed the order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver on behalf of His Majesty the Emperor to Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Japan, for his great contribution to the defense of Japan. Parliamentary Vice-Minister Matsukawa expressed her appreciation for Rear Admiral Fort’s dedication to the peace and stability of the region as well as to the development of the Alliance through various efforts such as strengthening cooperation between JMSDF and U.S. Navy.
