Japanese Gen. Toshiya Okabe, Chief of Staff, Japan

Japanese Gen. Toshiya Okabe, Chief of Staff, Japan Ground Self-Defense Forces, arrives for an office call during Yama Sakura 71, Dec. 11, 2016 at Camp Kengun, Japan.
Exercise Yama Sakura 71 is an annual command post exercise co-sponsored by U.S. Army Pacific and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force at Camp Kengun from Dec. 1-13. The purpose of the exercise is to enhance U.S. and Japan’s combat readiness and interoperability while strengthening bilateral relationships and demonstrating U.S. resolve to support the security interests of allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. During the exercise, U.S. military members and JGSDF members exchange ideas, tactic, techniques, military experiences, and culture. Yama Sakura strengthens military operations, trust and friendship.