Last Wednesday, two individuals received certificates of commendation from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan in a special ceremony.

At the official residence of the Consul-General of Japan, Rumiko Ishigami, a conferment ceremony was held to honor and recognize Tamotsu Iizuka and Yoshihiro Sakamoto.

Consul-General Ishigami praised the two recipients, stating,

“Both gentlemen are well deserving of this prestigious award, as they have made big strides in not only the Japanese community of Guam but within the local community as well. Their time and dedication in their respective capacities have helped promote mutual understanding between Japan, Guam, and the United Statesof America.”

Tomatsu Iizuka came to Guam in 1971, and has since been acknowledged for his entrepreneurial success. He opened a popular japanese restaurant ‘Issin’ in 1986, endured a massive earthquake in 1993, and reopened his beloved restaurant in 1997 at the Westin Resort Guam. It remained a hot spot until his retirement in 2022.

Affectionately known as ‘Tom,’ Iizuka is a board member and Director Emeritus of the Make-a-Wish Foundation. He also played a big role in expanding the Japan Autumn Festival.

Consul-General Ishigami highlighted Iizuka's efforts, stating, "Mr. Iizuka believed the festival was an opportunity to express gratitude and build a bridge of friendship with the residents of Guam."

Yoshihiro Sakamoto on the other hand, moved to Guam in 1979 and began work with Nanbo Insurance. Throughout his 50 years of work, he was recognized for his dedication to community projects.

Sakamoto committed himself to memorializing war victims and conveying the tragic history of war to future generations through his role with the Peace Ring of Guam. He conducts educational and charitable activities to strengthen the relationship between the people of Guam and Japan.

During the ceremony, both Iizuka and Sakamoto graciously accepted their certificates, expressing gratitude.

Iizuka shared with us, “Since I came to Guam 52 years ago, I have been blessed to experience the warmth and kindness of these people. May the friendship between Guam and Japan continue to grow stronger. Thank you.”

Additionally, Sakamoto said, “I have been fortunate to have incredible support from my family, friends, mentors, and others both past and present. Their influence and guidance has been invaluable and I owe them a tremendous depth of gratitude.”

The ceremony concluded with a toast.