USFJ releases statement on pilot recovery

Published July 22, 2012
U.S. Forces Japan

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- Lt. Gen. Sam Angelella, commander, U.S. Forces, Japan, released the following statement on the recovery of the F-16 pilot from Misawa today:

"The men and women of U.S. Forces, Japan, are extremely grateful for the successful and safe recovery of our pilot. We are especially pleased with the incredible support and cooperation from the Government of Japan, the Jiei-tai (Self Defense Force), and the Japan Coast Guard for a very smooth operation in locating the pilot and coordinating his recovery. We cannot thank enough the crews of the F/V Hokko Maru who recovered our pilot from the North Pacific waters and the MV Manukai for accepting the pilot from the Japanese vessel to work his transition back home to Misawa. This is a wonderful example of the bonds and professionalism to our Alliance."