Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently lauded the "shared warrior ethos" between the United States and Japan during a memorial service held at the historic site of the Iwo Jima battle.
This event marked the 80th anniversary of the fierce conflict, which saw the participation of senior officials from both nations.
According to One America News, Hegseth, alongside Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and other dignitaries, paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the over 80,000 Marines, soldiers, and sailors who fought at Iwo Jima. "More than 26,000 died here. Today, we revere their courage. Today, we remember their valor and sacrifice," Hegseth stated. He emphasized the island's significance as a symbol of the two nations' mutual commitment to duty and honor. "Iwo Jima embodies our shared devotion to the nation, and to duty and our shared reverence for the men of valor who preceded us," he continued.
The event, known as the Reunion of Honor, also saw the attendance of six veterans, each nearing a century in age. Hegseth highlighted the enduring importance of the U.S.-Japan alliance, particularly in light of China's increasing influence, describing it as the "cornerstone of freedom, prosperity, security, and peace in the Indo-Pacific." He remarked, "The U.S.-Japan alliance shows how yesterdays enemy has become todays friends."
Looking ahead, Hegseth is scheduled to engage in discussions with his Japanese counterpart, Gen Nakatani, in Tokyo to explore ways to further fortify the alliance. Prime Minister Ishiba reflected on the legacy of the past, stating, "We must not forget that the peace and prosperity we enjoy today have been built upon the noble sacrifices of those who died in the war and the tireless efforts of the people over the past 80 years since the end of the war."
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