 U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III visited the Ministry of Defense of Japan to meet with Japan's top military officials. During the visit, Austin met with Defense Minister Hamada Yasukazu and discussed strengthening the U.S.-Japan alliance to maintain peace and prosperity within the region. Let me start by thanking Minister Hamada for hosting me today. It truly is great to be back in Tokyo at a time of historic momentum in the U.S.-Japan alliance. The Secretary of Defense also met with U.S. and Japanese service members at Yakota Air Base to express his gratitude towards the men and women who defend the Indo-Pacific. It's all very important, it's all actually who you are in the United States military. Be proud of who you are and what you do. Staff Sergeant Austin Nash, Yakota Air Base, Japan. Thank you for joining us today.