CAMP KINSER, OKINAWA, Japan -- The smell of chicken, fried noodles and hot dogs flowed through the damp air as families and friends gathered around the stage for a local performance during the annual Kinser Festival Jan. 27-28 aboard Camp Kinser.
Members of the local and U.S. communities on Okinawa came together for a fun filled weekend of treats, drinks and live entertainment.
“I think events like this are significant when it comes down to breaking barriers and different stereotypes we have with each other,” said Master Sgt. Jerry Pennington, the administration chief with Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Japan. “This is an opportunity to spend time together, get to know each other and strengthen the bonds of the U.S. and Japan alliance.”
Attendees enjoyed local performances including, Mura Saki and Kenzi street performers. Dancers performing traditional Okinawan dances dazzled audiences with their beautiful outfits and performances.
“This is a great way to support our neighbors by providing them a venue to perform,” said 1st Lt. Hannah Crawford, a camp services officer with Headquarters Regiment, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. “Additionally, we have a static display provided by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and also have JGSDF recruiting present, providing support to our host nation counterparts.”
Families were also able to interact and pose with some JSDF and U.S. military tactical vehicles on display.
“Being here is very important to help change the image of the military, and it lets us cooperate together,” said Staff Sergeant Aiko Saito, a recruiter with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force.