CGC Jarvis represents CG in Japan, around world

YOKOHAMA, Japan, May 30 -- Following a week of international cooperation and exchange, the crew of the Japan coast guard vessel Amagi turned out in full force to wave farewell to the visiting CGC Jarvis as it sailed for its next port of call. The Jarvis moored in Yokohama for the week, conducting drills and reviews and strengthening the bond between the U.S. and the Japanese coast guards.

The port call in Yokohama marked the start of a three-month patrol to strengthen the cooperation between Japan, China, Korea, Russia, Canada and the United States in patrolling the Pacific Ocean for high seas drift net fishing and other dangerous activities. The Japan coast guard was established in 1948, and built on the model presented by the U.S. Coast Guard. The relationship between the two services is strong and there was an immediate sense of friendship felt by crews from both sides. "The Japanese coast guard was very welcoming, and the receptions provided excellent forums for both countries to interact," said Ensign Mariette Millson, of the Jarvis.

The Jarvis boarding team members joined Japanese members in a law enforcement demonstration during the week, which highlighted the respective tactics on boarding a hostile vessel.

The Jarvis team members were greeted aboard the Japanese coast guard vessel Izu--and by the Japanese media. Several Jarvis members expressed surprise in the large media showing, saying that while it was a little disconcerting to have so many cameras flashing, it was hard not to smile at the enthusiasm for the demonstration.

The Jarvis' crew also participated in the Japanese coast guard's annual Sea Review, an extensive parade and operational demonstration.

The Jarvis crewmembers, along with thousands of viewers, observed well-orchestrated drills including helicopter operations, fire fighting and maneuverability demonstrations. The crew stood at attention at the rails watching as the Japanese coast guard members demonstrated their capabilities. It was a chance to see how another coast guard operates.

"Japan was wonderful. It was a great chance to work with another country and we both learned a lot from each other," said Lt. j.g. Carla Longanecker of the Jarvis.

The week was not all work. The Jarvis crew was treated to a reception hosted by the crew of the Amagi, played a friendly game of softball, and in turn hosted a reception aboard the Jarvis. The Jarvis' cooks gave the Japanese crews a taste of "aloha" by serving Hawaiian dishes. After the receptions, crewmembers were able to get out and explore Japan, with trips to Mt. Fuji, Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo Tower and other sights. After leaving Japan, the Jarvis set sail for the next port call in South Korea.

Story by 14th Dist. Public Affairs and photos by PA1 Amy Thomas, PacArea

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