Sakura Olympics unite Misawa Air Base U.S., Japanese communities

U.S. military and Japan Air Self-Defense Force members compete in a softball game during the 2026 Sakura Olympics at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 28, 2026. The annual event strengthened partnerships and promoted mutual respect through friendly competition between U.S. and Japanese participants. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Angelica Winther)

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Sakura Olympics unite Misawa Air Base U.S., Japanese communities

U.S. Air Force Col. Bryan Wong, 35th Maintenance Group commander, competes in a softball game at the 2026 Sakura Olympics at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 28, 2026. The annual event fostered teamwork, camaraderie and friendly competition while bringing together members of the Misawa community through athletic events. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Angelica Winther)

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Sakura Olympics unite Misawa Air Base U.S., Japanese communities

U.S. military and Japan Air Self-Defense Force members compete in a softball game during the 2026 Sakura Olympics at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 28, 2026. The annual event brought together U.S. and Japanese participants to build camaraderie, strengthen community ties and celebrate the spirit of friendly competition. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Angelica Winther)

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Sakura Olympics unite Misawa Air Base U.S., Japanese communities

A softball player competes at the 2026 Sakura Olympics at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 28, 2026. The annual event brought together U.S. and Japanese participants to build camaraderie, strengthen community ties and celebrate the spirit of friendly competition. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Angelica Winther)

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Sakura Olympics unite Misawa Air Base U.S., Japanese communities

U.S. military and Japan Air Self-Defense Force participants exchange postgame greetings following a softball game during the 2026 Sakura Olympics at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 28, 2026. The annual event reflected the spirit of collaboration and friendship, strengthening relationships between U.S. and Japanese participants through sports and cultural exchange. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Angelica Winther)

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Sakura Olympics unite Misawa Air Base U.S., Japanese communities

U.S. military and Japan Air Self-Defense Force participants pose for a group photo following a softball game during the 2026 Sakura Olympics at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 28, 2026. The annual event reflected the friendships and partnerships formed through athletic competition, bringing members of the Misawa military communities together both on and off the field. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Angelica Winther)

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Sakura Olympics unite Misawa Air Base U.S., Japanese communities

Published June 7, 2026
By Airman 1st Class Angelica Winther
35th Fighter Wing

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --

The annual event reflected the spirit of collaboration and friendship, strengthening relationships between U.S. and Japanese participants through sports and cultural exchange.