The 7th Kadena Special Olympics (KSO) opened at stadium of Kadena High School at Kadena Air Base under good weather on 24 June, many athletes and volunteers participated in it.　The opening ceremony started at 10:00am under summer sunshine, many peoples there muttered in their heart "we cheer you all" to marching participants.　The opening ceremony began with Japan and U.S. national anthems performed by Expeditionary Force Band of U.S.Marine Corps.　 After opening speech by Colonel Kennedy (vice commander of 18th Wing) and greeting address by Mr.Makino (the deputy-governor of Okinawa Prefecture), the sacred fire was lightened, and then opening ceremony was closed.　Brigadier General Moulton (commander of 18th Wing) was absent because of his duties. Major General Hagiwara(vice commander of Southwester Air Combined Division) and Major General Hanzawa (commander of 83th Air Wing) from Japan Air Self Defense Force attended to this ceremony.
　　The handicapped persons who joined KSO run with their possible power.　For an instance , this made me remember myself when I had engaged with things earnestly.　Then I moved to exhibition hall to see art works performed by them.　Last year I was very impressed to see their works, and I could enjoy their splendid art works this year too.　So I was very surprised that there were a lot of handicapped persons with splendid talent..　I believe the person should be evaluated with talent, not appearance.　Also I think that an oppotunity like as Special Olympics should be made more frequently for them.　According to announcement by KSO's authority, over 900 athletes and over 300 artists, totally 1300 peoples joined to this Olympics.　The competition did continue until 4:30pm, but I had to leave there before closing.

　　On 25 June, the reception of KSO 2006 was held at residence of 18th Wing commander from 6:00pm., so I attended it as substitution of JAAGA president Takegouchi.　At the reception, B.Gen.Moulton expressed appreciation for attendance and supporting to KSO 2006 , then he presented the memorial platters to support's groups and individuals.　In closing speech, Ms.Moulton said "I am very glad to get many friends in a short time since I arrived here Okinawa.　And I hope that we would widen the ring of friendship between Japan and U.S." 　(Reported by Ishizu, Manager of JAAGA Okinawa Branch)

Postscript: JAAGA donated the support money to KSO.