Retired JDF General Oriki receives Legion of Merit

12/3/2012 - Retired Gen. Ryoichi Oriki, former Chief of Staff of the Joint Staff, Japan Self Defense Forces, receives The Legion of Merit medal pinned by U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Sam Angelella, U.S. Forces Japan and 5th Air Force commander, at Yokota Air Base, Nov. 30, 2012. Oriki received the award for meritorious conduct, performance and achievement during bilateral disaster relief operations at the aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake last year. Oriki retired in January 2012. The Legion of Merit was established by Congress on July 20, 1942; by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The Legion of Merit is also awarded to members of armed forces of friendly foreign nations who have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service. (U.S. Air Force photo/Osakabe Yasuo