2016 Minister of Foreign Affairs Commendation Ceremony (September 14, 2016)

On Wednesday, September 14th, the 2016 Minister of Foreign Affairs Commendation Ceremony was held in Salt Lake City, Utah where Consul-General Ito awarded Dr. Van C. Gessel a Certificate of Commendation. Dr. Gessel’s family and friends attended the ceremony, making it a warm event.
Consul-General Ito congratulated Dr. Gessel on his outstanding achievements and the significant role he played in mutual understanding between Japan and America by introducing Japanese culture through Japanese research and translations of Japanese literature. In response, Dr. Gessel said he was honored that he could contribute to the promotion of Japan-U.S. mutual understanding through his work in Japanese research and translations.
We would like to express our appreciation toward Dr. Gessel and his long years of contribution, and again offer our sincerest congratulations.