Misawa Airman has unique experience during Japan Day

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. A.C. Eggman
  • 35th Fighter Wing public affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  For the thousands of attendees, the annual Japan Day here is an opportunity to experience the rich culture of Japan, learn about its past and present, and be entertained. 

However, for one Misawa Airman, Saturday was an experience a few people have had, and will it stand out in her mind for years to come. 

"I felt like a celebrity," said Airman 1st Class Song Lee, 610th Air Control Facility weapons director technician. Airman Lee was asked by a committee member and colleague if she wanted to participate in the 20th annual event hosted by the Misawa International Club. She was asked to be a part of the opening ceremony and to demonstrate how to wear a kimono. 

"They were looking for a person with certain characteristics ... the person had to be Asian, which I fit," said the 18-month veteran. "I jumped all over the opportunity." 

The Virginia native's parents are Korean. She lived in Seoul until seventh grade until she moved to the United States, she said. Now, home is New Port, Va., for the 21-year-old.
Airman Lee had no idea she had accepted a special invitation and that the kimono she would wear was special. 

"She wore the Imperial Kimono," said Capt. Mischa Johnson, 35th Medical Group surgeon services nurse and committee member. "You can only see it in a museum and in current times, only the princess (of Japan) can wear it. It was a big deal to wear." 

While Airman Lee didn't know the significance of the kimono, she was informed a few days before the event that it was valued at about $180,000. 

At the time, no one knew the significance of the kimono, other than it was very expensive, said the captain. 

"When she walked out, it was like the paparazzi," said Captain Johnson. "We thought she looked beautiful. We, as Americans, didn't understand the significance." 

Airman Lee was shocked, dazed and confused by all the commotion. "It felt good to be in the spotlight," she said. "I was flattered to exemplify, and reflect on the Japanese culture. I was honored to get to experience that." 

As part of the opening ceremony, Airman Lee had to walk out from under a canopy and down a red carpet to a platform. It took two women to assist in her short walk. 

"I only had to walk a few feet, but I was afraid I would trip, fall and rip the dress," said Airman Song. Once she fulfilled her duties at the opening ceremony, Airman Lee also had the opportunity to participate in the kimono fashion show and demonstrate the many layers and how to properly wear the traditional dress. 

"To be given such a rare opportunity ... to be apart of the ceremony," said the Airman. "I learned a lot." 

When her demonstrating duties were over, Airman Lee didn't miss the chance to walk around, see the displays and watch all the performances. The drum performances struck her as impressive, she said. "They were spectacular," said Airman Lee. I had never seen one like that." 

Originally organized in 1987 by prominent Japanese business people and American members, the one-day event introduces the base community to the cultures and traditions through more than 60 exhibits and cultural demonstrations from all over Japan. 

Some of the events this year included traditional dancing, many forms of music, kimono wearing, martial arts and sword-fighting demonstrations, crafts and traditional dancing. 

"The day was successful," said Captain Johnson. "It was a great opportunity to strengthen the bonds of friendship between communities."