U.S. Army soldiers received lessons on naginata while

U.S. Army soldiers received lessons on naginata while participating in a cultural exchange event during Yama Sakura (YS) 71. Naginata is one of many cultural exchange events the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) members host for U.S. Army personnel. Yama Sakura is an annual, bilateral exercise with the JGSDF and U.S. Military. The purpose of the exercise is to enhance U.S. and Japan’s combat readiness and interoperability while strengthening bilateral relationships and demonstrating U.S. resolve to support the security interests of allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Anthony R. Martinez/Released)