The Japanese government presented the former director of the Japan Liaison Office for Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Japan, with the Order of the Rising Sun, Fourth Class, Gold Rays with Rosette Award during a ceremony in Tokyo Nov. 10.

John Niemeyer, a Massachusetts native who spent 30 years fostering relationships between the U.S. and Japan during his career as a U.S. Navy Sailor and again after retiring from military service and working for the Department of the Navy as a civil servant, is the first U.S. Navy civilian employee to receive this award.

The Order of the Rising Sun is the oldest national decoration awarded by the Japanese government. Established in 1875, it is the third highest award the Japanese government bestows upon recipients. The award recognizes those making distinguished achievements in international relations, promotion of Japanese culture, advancements in their field, development in welfare, or preservation of the environment. It is also awarded for exemplary military service.

"I am deeply humbled that the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and Japan Ministry of Defense (MOD) nominated me for this decoration, and that it was subsequently approved by the Japanese government," Niemeyer said. "It was bestowed upon me based on their recognition of, and appreciation for, the 30 years I worked in Yokosuka as a linguist and liaison 'kake-hashi' (human bridge) between Japan and the U.S."

When asked what it took to be recognized for the award, Niemeyer reflected on his efforts to serve steadily with patience, a positive attitude, and a constructive spirit.

"Always support the boss and the team," he said. "Work smartly and, as the old Japanese saying goes, 'if asked to bring a chisel, also bring a mallet.'"

He advised those who might follow in his footsteps to make sure to laugh and enjoy life.

Although Niemeyer received the award in recognition of his professional accomplishments, he wishes others to view the award as recognition for all Navy civilians in Japan for the work they do to strengthen the U.S./Japan alliance.

"What I would like to say to those who might read this article, or otherwise hear about it, is that, yes, I happened to be the one who received an imperial decoration, but I have known so many other Navy civilians who have quietly worked long, hard and effectively in Japan," he said. "I hope this award can also be seen symbolically as recognition for their superb service and contributions."

Though he has received other personal awards and commendations over the course of his career and has been deeply honored by and grateful for receiving them, the Order of the Rising Sun is special because it was signed by Japan's Emperor Akihito and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

"It's in a different league, so to speak," he said.

Niemeyer said he believes the kind of work he performed is significant because the U.S./Japan alliance is a crucial one.

"What I have learned after my time in Japan, is that there is no stronger or more important bilateral relationship than that between the U.S. and Japan, and the U.S.-Japan defense alliance is a main pillar supporting that relationship," he said. "The U.S. Navy and JMSDF operational partnership is the dynamic core of that alliance. All of us, uniformed or civilian, should be aware of this and be proud to be part of it."

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