July 1, 2009, Fukuoka – Although red, white and blue are the colors most often associated with July 4th, in light of President Obama’s and Kyushu’s own green initiatives, the U.S. Consulate in Fukuoka chose to go “green” for this year’s American Independence Day event, which drew about 300 Japanese and American guests, who quickly got into the spirit.

Not only did we limit disposable supplies and used recyclable decorations, the U.S. Consulate also featured a number of companies and local NGOs that each in its own way is helping raise environmental awareness. Posters were also on display to highlight environmental projects being undertaken by the U.S. mission in Japan and U.S. Forces Japan bases, such as the Commander of Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS).

An official ceremony included a color guard from CFAS, a cappella renditions of the two national anthems by the spouse of one of the U.S. Consuls and musical entertainment by the award-winning Seika Girls Band.