Iwakuni Reunion

Iwakuni, Japan

April 28, 2002

At the end of a two hour and forty minute trip aboard fast trains, Frankie was there with his wife to meet us and drive to the city in his large Toyota "Crown".  Things out in the country between the station and Iwakuni hadn't changed much other than seeing automobiles instead of bicycles which was the predominate mode of transportation when I left.

Frankie stopped at the famous Kintai Bridge where Bob Seiki and his wife were waiting for us.  After a warm greeting, Frankie drove the Seiki's over to the hotel.  Kuniko, Dotty and I walked across the bridge enjoying it's uniqueness and the multitude of Japanese.  This picture was taken by Shigeyo in May, 2003 and sent to me.  What a beautiful shot!

At the hotel we all rejoined and had a lunch that never seemed to end.  There must have been 50 courses along with our favorite beverages!  We toasted  our good fortunes to have been reunited and most any other excuse that seemed appropriate.  It reminded me of the days when these same men tried to get me to my limit drinking sake at one of our many office parties.

During our meal we exchanged gifts and looked at pictures of Bob and Frankie and others who had worked with us.  

Seated from left are Dotty, Larry, Bob, Kuniko, Mrs. Seiki and Frankie. 

After lunch Bob and Mrs. Seiki departed for home while Frankie took the four of us on a tour of the city and the Marine Corps Air Station.  Iwakuni city was packed, primarily because the streets hadn't been designed for automobiles and they were full of them.  Nothing like the motorcycles and bikes that left plenty of room for pedestrians in the 50s.

Aside from the runway and a few buildings, there was little on the base that I recognized.  The Officers Club and Bachelor Officer's Quarters where I had lived had long since been replaced.  As a retired employee Frankie was given authorization to go anywhere on the base.

Frankie took us to his office just outside the main gate of the base where he runs his used car business.  The office was filled with dozens of cameras from his collection, some quite old.  Believe it or not, he still rides a Honda Gold Wing motorcycle!

Dotty had finally met my friends and understood why I had such a high regard for them.  She was also happy to be able to thank Mrs. Seiki for the beautiful Japanese doll she had made for her and for the kimono she had made when our Steve was born.  We were sad to depart but happy to have spent one of the most enjoyable days of our lives.  

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