Shogun-MOFA seminar

More than 100 Airmen attended a cultural seminar conducted by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at Kadena Air Base, Japan on Dec. 11. The seminar concluded with a demonstration of ‘Kobudo,’ an ancient martial arts technique that originated here on Okinawa and is now only practiced by a few. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Rey Ramon)

Seminar shows Airmen common ground

Published Dec. 11, 2009
By Tech. Sgt. Rey Ramon
18th Wing Public Affairs

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- A cultural seminar conducted by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at Kadena Air Base Dec. 11 sought to establish common ground and enhance mutual understanding between Okinawans and Americans. More than 100 Airmen were in attendance.

"Why are you here?" asked Col. Mario Troncoso, 18th Force Support Squadron commander, in his opening remarks, adding, "To understand our Okinawan host and their culture and openly share what you learn with other Airmen, friends and family."

According to Kaz Nakamoto, an Okinawan historian and the event's guest speaker, education is the key to building mutual understanding between neighbors. Mr. Nakamoto spoke of how he came to understand and appreciate American society by studying its history. He went on to educate the Airmen about Okinawan history from the 12th century to the present, paying particular attention to the Battle of Okinawa.

The seminar concluded with a demonstration of 'Kobudo,' an ancient martial arts technique that originated here on Okinawa and is now only practiced by a few.