On Friday, May 10, 2024, several members from the U.S. Navy League in Sasebo, Japan, had the honor of attending the Naval Beach Unit 7 (NBU 7) Change of Command Ceremony at the Yokose Landing Craft Air Cushion (LAC) facility in Saikai City. Commander Jessica F. Betz served as the outgoing Commanding Officer, while Commander Fred D. Crayton assumed the role as the new Commanding Officer. Vice-Admiral Fred W. Kacher, the Commander of the U.S. 7th Fleet, delivered the keynote address. Lieutenant Commander Leotra L. West led the Invocation and Benediction. Electrician’s Mate Senior Chief Vivian Ng performed the U.S. National Anthem and the Japanese National Anthem. Numerous distinguished guests from the Sasebo Naval Community, the Japanese Self-Defense Forces, and the Saikai City community attended the event.
Following the ceremony, guests congratulated Commander Betz and Commander Crayton, viewed the LAC vehicles, and participated in a cake-cutting ceremony.
The Live Stream feed of the NBU 7 Change of Command Ceremony is now available on the NBU 7 Facebook page. This allows all our community members, near and far, to participate in this significant event, fostering a sense of unity and shared experience.
The U.S. Navy League Sasebo Chapter members who attended were Vice President James Whalen, Diane Danjanic, Mashiro Yano, Chiho Yamagata, Miyoko Hamada, Kazuyo Takada, Kazuko Kuwahara, Kayoko Kuwahara, Yuriko Ishibashi, Takako Ishibashi, and Yoshiko Hiwatashi.
Photos taken by Masahiro Yano.
Follow the Sasebo, Japan Navy League Council on Facebook.
