Conferment Ceremony of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays for Mr. Gary M. Yamashita (May 15, 2025)

On May 15th, 2025, a ceremony for the 2024 Autumn Conferment of Decorations on Foreign Nationals was held at the official residence of the Consul-General. At the ceremony, Consul-General Okajima presented Mr. Gary Mamoru Yamashita, former Executive Director of the Sakura Foundation and former CEO of Sakura Square, LLC, with the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays. Mr. Yamashita has contributed to the introduction of Japanese culture in the U.S. and to deepening the friendship and goodwill between the U.S. and Japan.

After the presentation of the Decoration, Mr. Yamashita gave a speech and Mr. Tim Higashide, current CEO of Sakura Square, LLC, led a congratulatory toast.

To honor his accomplishments, the ceremony was attended by Mr. Yamashita’s family and those who have worked alongside him over the years to promote U.S.-Japan relations.