Hello, everyone. I am Shunji Izutsu, and I have recently assumed office as the 14th President of the Japan-America Air Force Goodwill Association (JAAGA).
Our association was established in 1996 with the objective of contributing to the promotion of further cooperation and mutual understanding between the air forces of Japan and the United States, and we proudly celebrate our 30th anniversary this year. Over the past three decades, we have continuously conducted various activities toward this goal. I would like to express my deepest respect for the tremendous efforts made by the successive members who have been involved in our activities, as well as my heartfelt gratitude to all related parties for their continued support.
The charter members who dedicated themselves to founding this association
were concerned about the post-Cold War Japan-U.S. relationship. Under the
strong bond forged between the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) and
the U.S. Air Force, they aimed to serve as a bridge to enhance mutual understanding
and friendship, thereby contributing to strengthening the relationship
of trust between our two nations. It is a well-known fact that while the
security environment facing both countries has continued to change drastically
since the end of the Cold War, the alliance between our two nations has
evolved into an unshakeable one. We take great pride in the fact that our
association has played a part in this vital endeavor.
Next spring, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force will evolve into the Japan
Air and Space Self-Defense Force (JASDF). To ensure that cooperation and
collaboration between the air and space forces of Japan and the United
States proceed as smoothly as possible, our association will continue to
support active-duty personnel of the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Space Force,
and the Japan Air and Space Self-Defense Force, thereby contributing to
the future strengthening of relations between Japan and the United States.
I would like to ask all our members for your unwavering support and active
participation in our initiatives. Furthermore, for non-members, we would
be most grateful if this website helps you gain a deeper understanding
of our association's activities.
June 1, 2026
Shunji Izutsu
President,