Japan Foreign Minister’s Commendation awarded to Mr. Kazumi Aoki

The Consulate-General of Japan in Hagatna announced today that the Foreign Minister’s Commendation for FY 2025 was awarded to Mr. Kazumi Aoki, Secretary and Treasurer, South Pacific Memorial Association Inc.
 
Mr. Aoki is being recognized for Promotion of mutual understanding between Japan and the U.S.A.
 
Mr. Aoki, a long-term member of the South Pacific Memorial Association, contributed enormously for many years to convene the Peace Memorial Ceremony where both Japanese and U.S. officials attend, in addition to the maintenance and management of the South Pacific Memorial Park. Mr. Aoki has also been involved in the transfer of custody of WWII Japanese soldiers remains from the Government of Guam, as well as the recovery project of the remains of Japanese war dead by the Government of Japan. Further, Mr. Aoki gave tours of the battle sites in the South Pacific Memorial Park for many visitors such as the high officials of the Government of Japan, the Self-Defense Forces personnels and students on a school trip visiting Guam, passing on the history of the WWII and contributing to the promotion of mutual understanding, friendship and goodwill.
 
Mr. Aoki’s long-term membership with the South Pacific Memorial Association is a fine example of the promotion of mutual understanding between Japan and the USA as well as Japan and Guam. Mr. Aoki also received the Maga'håga Award from the Office of the Governor in May 2025.