Press Releases
Attendance of State Minister HORII to the Japan-U.S. Reunion of Honor Ceremony, etc.
March 28, 2026
On March 28, the Japan-U.S. Reunion of Honor Ceremony was held in front of the Japan–U.S. Reunion Memorial on Iwo-To to honor the memory of those who lost their lives in the battle and to pray for Japan–U.S. friendship and lasting peace. Representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. HORII Iwao, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, attended the ceremony. A summary is as follows:
- Approximately 110 participants from the Japanese side attended the ceremony, including government officials, members of the Diet, and representatives of the Iwo-To Association (bereaved families of those who died in the Battle of Iwo-To). From the U.S. side, approximately 30 participants attended, including Major General David Bice, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.), President of the Iwo Jima Association of America, and Mr. Aaron D. Snipe, Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy in Japan.
- At the ceremony, State Minister Horii delivered remarks on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressing condolences to the war dead and their bereaved families from both Japan and the United States. He also stated that Japan and the United States, firmly bound by their alliance, serve as a cornerstone for stability, peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. He further emphasized their commitment to strengthening cooperation and making tireless efforts to achieve peace and prosperity in the region and the international community.
- In addition, prior to the Japan-U.S. Iwo-To Reunion of Honor Ceremony, the Memorial Ceremony for the Japanese War Dead on the Battle of Iwo-To was held at the Tenzan Memorial Monument, and State Minister Horii attended this ceremony.