Misawa Air Base, Japan -- Misawa Air Base held its first-ever Sakura Olympics throughout the month of April. More than 500 participants from units around the base participated in over 10 sporting events during the Sakura Olympics to build camaraderie and strengthen ties between American and Japanese personnel. The event is named after the famous cherry blossom trees grown in Japan. Throughout history, the Japanese government has given numerous cherry blossom trees to the U.S. government, symbolizing the bond between the two nations.