Visit to the Japanese Language Program at the U.S. Air Force Academy (April 21, 2026)

On April 21, Consul-General Okajima, accompanied by consular staff, visited the U.S. Air Force Academy to observe its Japanese Language program and meet with faculty and cadets.

During the visit, the Consul-General met with Colonel Jean-Philippe Peltier, professor and Head of the Department of Foreign Languages. Col. Peltier emphasized how the Japanese language is a top priority for the Air Force and explained how the Academy’s language program is responsible for roughly a third of the active force’s Japanese-speaking officers, as well as outlining plans to expand opportunities for cadets to study abroad in Japan. Consul-General Okajima thanked the Air Force for its support for Japanese language, highlighting the importance of these studies to the strong Japan-US alliance.

The Consulate-General was also able to observe two Japanese language classes, led by Dr. Hisaaki Wake and Maj. Yuki Nemoto, answering questions and offering words of encouragement to the cadets. We were impressed by their dedication and effort, and look forward to seeing how they utilize Japanese in their future roles as commissioned officers.