 U.S. Navy sailors from fleet activities Yacowska and citizens from the town of Shimoda, Japan gather to celebrate the start of the U.S.-Japan friendship with the 77th annual Black Ship Festival. It's just a good opportunity to get together and remember our history when Commodore Perry came in 1854. The open trade and diplomacy with Japan. The three-day festival commemorates this historic event by hosting a parade through the streets of Shimoda, remembering the U.S. service members who were buried and looked after at a local cemetery and finishing off with some friendly but very competitive spirits. I participated in the parade, walking around and seeing so many people excited to see you, and it was a really fun experience. For most sailors who participate, it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Petty Officer Brian M. Brooks, Shimoda, Japan.