On Saturday, January 20, an Award Ceremony for the 2023 Foreign Minister’s Commendation was held at the Japan America Society of St. Louis (JASSTL) Shinnenkai in honor of our president, Greg Gorman. The Foreign Minister’s Commendation was presented to Mr. Gorman by Consul-General Jun Yanagi.

Mr. Gorman was recognized for his outstanding contributions in promoting Japanese culture in the U.S. and fostering friendly relations and mutual understanding between Japan and the U.S. During his tenure as a director and then as president since 2018, Mr. Gorman has led various JASSTL events. With his network and experience working for Japanese companies, he has spear-headed Japan-U.S. business exchanges and seminars, and contributed to the annual Japanese Festival, sake tasting events, and many others. He has strengthened JASSTL as an organization and furthered deeper cooperation with local Japan-related organizations.

Consul-General Yanagi delivered congratulatory remarks and presented the certificate and commemorative gift awarded by the Foreign Minister to Mr. Gorman, with family, friends, colleagues, and JAS members in attendance to witness this significant award.