KIN TOWN, OKINAWA, Japan -- While Okinawa’s bright sunlight beat down on the red tile roof of Nature Mirai-kan, people of Kin town were busy preparing to make barbecue and fried noodles at the pavilion on the exchange filed.
A group of Americans came by there just before 1:00 p.m. The group came from Camp Hansen including the base commander Col. Sean M. McBride and his family, and Sgt. Maj. Devon A. Lee and his family.
Kin town mayor Hajime Nakama, district chiefs, and town officials welcomed the guests from Camp Hansen.
Mayor Nakama and Col. McBride shook their hands with smile, and Col. McBride introduced his family members to the Mayor.
After the greetings, all sat down around the table, which began friendly conversations over barbecue.
Mayor Nakama and Col. McBride sat on the table and faced each other.
Nakama said “Since Colonel McBride arrived to Camp Hansen, there was no incident involving the U.S. service members in Kin Town.” Nakama continued, “This is evidence that shows the community relations between Kin town and Camp Hansen work well. Building the reliable relations can prevent accidents and incidents from occurring.”
McBride replied with, “I always respond when the mayor wants to talk to me. We’re invited to be here. As good neighbors, it is our responsibilities to build upon good relationships. I always tell my Marines to act as good ambassadors because you will be responsible for what you do.”
Kin town composes of five districts; Nakagawa, Namizato, Kin, Igei, and Yaka and the district chiefs joined the BBQ as well.
Nakama said “We have been invited to Camp Hansen so we set this luncheon up for Colonel McBride, who will soon leave for his new station, Germany. We invited you as your farewell.”
The guests enjoyed Japanese style barbeque and conversations continued for over two hours.
McBride expressed his appreciations by saying “People in Kin town are the most kind and generous than other places I have been stationed, and I hope we have built good relationships between two communities. I may not meet any nicer people than Kin town but I sincerely hope that good relationships between Kin town and Camp Hansen will last for a long time to come.”