Commander in Chief, Self-Defense Fleet presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Lieutenant Commander Maria Katrina Ablen, U.S. Navy.

Commander in Chief, Self-Defense Fleet, Vice Admiral SAITO Akira, presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Lieutenant Commander Maria Katrina Ablen, Coordination Officer, U.S. Seventh Fleet.
Since her appointment in November 2021, LCDR Ablen made significant contributions to the advancement and strengthening of cooperation between the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the U.S. Navy with a strong sense of responsibility and a wealth of knowledge and experiences. More importantly, her cheerful and positive personality, and exceptional language skills, cultivated a harmonious environment that allowed Self Defense Fleet staff to speak with ease. Her dedicated support and commitment to mutual understanding has made a lasting positive impact on our relationship.
The Self Defense Fleet will continue to work closely with the U.S. Navy, from the commander to the staff and unit levels, and act together to maintain readiness and immediately respond to any contingencies, contributing to the defense of Japan and peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region.