NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan (NNS) -- Vice President Mike Pence departed Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan via Air Force Two April 19, bringing to a close his first official visit to Japan as the U.S. Vice President.
During the Japan portion of his regional visit, the Vice President traveled to Tokyo where he met with Prime Minister Shinz Abe and led the inaugural U.S.-Japan Economic Dialogue with Deputy Prime Minister Tar As. The Vice President also participated in a listening session followed by remarks to the U.S. and Japanese business community.
Naval Air Facility Atsugi Commanding Officer, Capt. John Bushey, from Spencer, Iowa, said NAF Atsugi serving as the inaugural naval installation in Japan to host the Vice President on his first official visit here is a great opportunity to highlight the service of Sailors, Families and Civilians at the tip of the spear as well as showcase the base.
"We're extremely honored to have supported the Vice President and his staff during his visit to Japan, and proud our Sailors in Atsugi could participate in welcoming him on his first official visit to Japan," Bushey said.
Continuing the Administration's commitment to rebuilding the U.S. military and to its alliances in the region, the Vice President toured the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) where he received a briefing on the U.S.-Japan alliance by U.S. Forces, Japan Commander Lt. Gen. Jerry Martinez, and gave remarks to Japan-based soldiers, Sailors, airmen and Marines, as well as members of the Japan Maritime Self- Defense Force (JMSDF).
During his trip, the Vice President emphasized President Trump's continued commitment to U.S. alliances and partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region, highlighted the Administration's economic agenda, and underscored America's support for our troops at home and abroad.