USO Japan Service Salute 2011

Recipients of the USO Servicemember's Salute Award 2011

I took the chance to go with Elyce to the USO's Service Salute in Tokyo. I'm glad that I did. The Service Salute was really nice and recognized the achievements of some great servicemen. The folks at the USO in mainland Japan did a great job with the event. It was held at the New Sanno which is always a pleasure to stay at. The entertainment of the evening was a very excited and energetic Elvis impersonator. He definitely gets an A+ for crown participation. Whenever you can get a 3 Star Admiral onstage to sing "Jailhouse Rock", you've done a good job!

Elvis was great!

Elyce and I also got a chance to walk around Tokyo a bit. Elyce was in Tokyo earlier in the year but I haven't been to Tokyo since 2008 so it was nice reminiscing a little bit about the places I used to visit. I hate that we only had a few days to enjoy the city. Being in Okinawa, I think we sometimes get a little forgetful of the great Japanese culture. It's so evident as soon as you step foot in mainland Japan. I definitely missed being in such a vibrant city. I don't think we'll be able to get back until next year sometime, but I can't wait. Hopefully I get a chance to take Elyce to Kyoto which I think is a pretty awesome city as well.

Elyce and Yuko-san :)

Seated at our table with a very friendly group.

I'm a lucky guy!!

Elyce in Shibuya

Walking around in the Azabu residential area of Tokyo.

I found this park in the middle of the city...Amazing!

Peace in the middle of a bustling city.

USO Okinawa Service Salute 2011

Elyce with members of the USO and a few Generals here on Okinawa.

Last night Elyce and I attended the USO Okinawa's Service Salute. This gala highlights a service member from each of the U.S. military services as well as Japan's National Defense Force. In all there were 7 military members awarded for their outstanding service. It was also a night to highlight the contributions that some of the local businesses provide for the USO and our troops. Elyce was one of the many special guests that included CEO's, Generals and Admirals from the U.S. and Japanese military services as well as important members of the USO.

 

Elyce and I after dinner.

Deadly!