Blair receives imperial honor

Bruce Asato • The Honolulu Advertiser

Adm. Dennis Blair, commander of U.S. forces in the Pacific, welcomed Gen Nakatani, director-general of Japan's Agency, to his offices at Camp Smith yesterday for a ceremony promoting U.S.-Japanese relations.

Bruce Asato • The Honolulu Advertiser

Nakatani, representing Emperor Akihito, bestowed the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star, upon Marine Lt. Gen. Earl Hailston, commander of the Marine Forces Pacific and commanding general of Fleet Marine Force Pacific. Japan honored Hailston for his contributions in strengthening security and bilateral cooperation.