From village to town, Misawa City celebrates 60 years

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Collette Brooks
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Misawa celebrated 60 years as a city at the Misawa International Center Sept. 1.

Misawa has evolved from a village to a town and now hosts an array of U.S. service members, Japan Air Self-Defense Force members and Japanese citizens as a city.

Since 1958, stable progress across the region aided in population, farming and financial growth.

“Despite enduring multiple natural disasters such as earthquakes and fires, Misawa continues to grow and prosper,” said Kazumasa Taneichi, the Misawa City mayor. “The residents never hesitate to put their best efforts forward in overcoming challenges.”

Due to the citizen’s contributions to the area, Misawa City is recognized as a prime location in the Aomori region.

“Misawa is a beautiful city,” expressed Shingo Mimura, the Aomori Prefecture governor. “The mix of cultures makes the region exotic.”

The ceremony highlighted Misawa Air Base commanders from the 35th Fighter Wing, 3rd Air Wing, Northern Air Defense Force and Naval Air Force-Misawa for their contributions to Misawa City’s growth and development.

Taneichi brought the ceremony to a close with a reminder that community care and understanding gives way to peacefully living. He expressed gratitude to all who provide support to the city and looks forward to Misawa’s future.