35th FW and Allies Unite for 2025 Sakura Olympics Opening

  • Published
  • By Airman Hannah Bench
  • 35th Fighter Wing

U.S. Air Force and JASDF representatives work together to light a torch.

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U.S. Air Force Col. Matthew Kenkel, left, 35th Fighter Wing deputy commander, extends a torch out for Japan Air Self-Defense Force Maj. Gen. Fujita Teruaki, 3rd Air Wing commander, to light the wick at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 7, 2025. This symbolic gesture highlights the 35th Fighter Wing’s mission to foster enduring partnerships and operational unity with its Japanese allies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Hannah Bench)
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U.S. Air Force and JASDF representatives work together to light a torch.

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U.S. Air Force Col. Matthew Kenkel, left, 35th Fighter Wing deputy commander, extends a torch out for Japan Air Self-Defense Force Maj. Gen. Fujita Teruaki, 3rd Air Wing commander, to light the wick at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 7, 2025. This symbolic gesture highlights the 35th Fighter Wing’s mission to foster enduring partnerships and operational unity with its Japanese allies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Hannah Bench)

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A joint-service honor guard waits for start of ceremony.

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A joint Honor Guard composed of U.S. Air Force, Japan Air Self-Defense Force, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Space Force members stand by for the opening ceremony of the 2025 Sakura Olympics at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 7, 2025. Their unified presence reinforces the 35th Fighter Wing’s mission to project strength through joint readiness, allied integration, and unwavering ceremonial precision. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Hannah Bench)

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Deputy base commander gives opening speech.

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U.S. Air Force Col. Matthew Kenkel, 35th Fighter Wing deputy commander, delivers the opening speech for the 2025 Sakura Olympics at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 7, 2025. Through organized athletic competition, the Sakura Olympics offers a low-stress, high-impact venue for the U.S. and Japan Air-Self Defense Force to strengthen rapport, aligning with the 35th Fighter Wing’s goal of building resilient, integrated teams. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Hannah Bench)

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Audience claps after speech.

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Spectators applaud during the 2025 Sakura Olympics opening ceremony following a speech at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 7, 2025. The Sakura Olympics bolster the 35th Fighter Wing’s mission of strengthening bilateral defense capabilities and mutual support by fostering teamwork through friendly competition. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Hannah Bench)

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Sakura Olympics torches are lit on podiums.

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Two torches are lit and displayed for the Sakura Olympics opening ceremony at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 7, 2025. The Sakura Olympics provide the 35th Fighter Wing with a unique opportunity to enhance morale, promote camaraderie, and solidify collaborative efforts vital to its mission of ensuring a strong, unified presence in the Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Hannah Bench)

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Lit Sakura Olympics torch is on a podium.

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A lit torch sits on a podium for display at the Sakura Olympics opening ceremony at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 7, 2025. The event promotes physical readiness and joint collaboration, key components of the 35th Fighter Wing’s mission to ensure combat effectiveness and strengthen partnerships with allied forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Hannah Bench)

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