Photo By Cpl. Thor Larson | Members of the Nago Women’s Group interact with family and friends of Amy J. Hall...... read more read more
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CAMP FOSTER, Japan - The smells of homemade hash browns and curry filled the house as vibrant strawberries, pineapples and apples covered the table where people gathered, laughing and sharing stories about their lives.
Although the diverse group of women grew up at different locations across the globe, the similarities between their life experiences is remarkable.
The Nago Women’s Group was invited to a brunch May 16 at the home of Amy J. Hall on Camp Foster. Events like this further strengthen the relationship between Marine families and Okinawa community members.
“They get to see what the Marines’ families are like, rather than just seeing a nameless face,” said Hall, a military spouse. “They can see that we’re a lot like them.”
Okinawa residents do not often get the chance to come onto an installation, so this is a great opportunity for them to experience a small piece of American culture, according to Audrey C. Mills, a family readiness officer with the regiment.
“It is very hard for us to come on base, and we are very lucky to be invited,” said Satoa China, the director of the Nago Women’s Group.
These events were started a few years ago, according to China. The women’s group and spouses of Marines have been inviting each other to their homes to learn about one another ever since.
“They have always invited us to tea ceremonies and things like that, so I just wanted to return the favor,” said Hall, a Mankato, Minn., native. “I love learning different things about their culture.”
The goal of events like this is to recognize and celebrate the similarities and differences between the Marine families and Okinawa community members.
“Every time I interact with (the community), I learn something new,” said Mills. “I hope that they will learn something new from us.”
When the Marine families and Okinawa residents interact, they learn that they share many of the same goals.
“These events help us learn how Okinawa (residents) feel about us and they learn how we feel about them,” said Mills. “These events build camaraderie with our hosts. They break down barriers.”
These interactions are captivating because the Nago Women’s Group members get to teach about their daily life while learning about the spouses of military members stationed on Okinawa, according to China.
“It is very important and very interesting for us to participate in these programs with the Marines,” said China.
When the Okinawa residents and Marine families participate in events together, friendships are built, according to Mills.
“It’s events like this that put faces to people,” said Mills. “They’re not just Okinawa (residents); they’re our neighbors, and our friends.”
| Date Taken: | 05.16.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 05.20.2014 01:16 |
| Story ID: | 130410 |
| Location: | CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, JP |
| Hometown: | MANKATO, MINNESOTA, US |
| Web Views: | 64 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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