USS Shiloh Strengthens Relations with Japan during Shimoda's Black Ship Festival

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Raymond D. Diaz III, USS Shiloh Public Affairs

SHIMODA, Japan (NNS) -- The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Shiloh (CG 67) visited Shimoda, to participate in the city's 76th annual Black Ship Festival, May 14-17.

The festival commemorated the 161st anniversary of the arrival of Commodore Matthew Perry to Japan in 1854, a historical event that marked the beginning of diplomacy and trade agreements between the U.S. and Japan.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ship JS Takawami (DD 110) also made a port visit here alongside Shiloh.

"Shiloh's visit to Shimoda illustrated the value we, as a nation, place in our relationships with Japan," said Capt. Kurush F. Morris, commanding officer of Shiloh. "We are very proud and grateful to have been here for this event."

During the visit, Shiloh Sailors and ceremonial units from the U.S. 7th Fleet marched through downtown Shimoda during a parade.

Sailors, of the more than 400 member Shiloh crew, participated in many goodwill events during their visit. These events included visits to several local elementary schools to interact with students, and sporting activities with local organizations.

"There is a unique friendship and closeness we share between our two nations and maritime forces," said Morris. "It is one we continue to maintain, forging one of the strongest bilateral relationship of any service."

Shiloh, forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan, is on patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operation in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia Pacific region.