In 1968, Special Olympic was created for the handicapped peoples to provide the opportunity of raising confidence through sports and recreation. In 1980, Yokota Non Commissioned Officer organization established Kanto Special Olympics which is an only association in Japan approved by International Special Olympics. It is 28th opening this year.
The day of 12nd May was so fine for Olympics. Four hundreds players from whole Kanto area and their supporters, the officers of Special Olympics and many volunteers attended the opening ceremony. The ceremony began with entrance march. The national flags of Japan and United States guarded by Boy Scout led the march. Handcraps were sent to the marching peoples from spectators stand. The outline of opening speech by Chairperson Colonel Paul J.Montgomery , vice commander of 374th Airlift Wing, is "Today's weather condition is so excellent for sport and recreation. This Olympics are operated by players, families and volunteers. I hope you to renew of your record." After that, the representatives from both countries' players declared, "we do our best for the victory. We will show our courage and do our best even if we cannot win."
It was sudden that Kanto Special Olympics organization would present the appreciation letter to JAAGA for the supporting and donation to Kanto Special Olympics. Secretariat Hirose received the appreciation letter attached memorial medal from Col. Montgomery.
The competition items were basketball, 50m / 100m / 200m / 400m races, 400m relay race, standing broad jump, high jump, bowling, 1 mile race, throwing softball, swimming etc.. Many kinds of entertainment were performed in interval of competition. This Olympics game was supported by 1000 volunteers more. About 600 peoples from Japan Self Defense Forces (JASDF : Iruma, Fuchu, Ichigaya, JGSDF : Misyuku, Nerima, Asaka, Higashi Tachikawa).
Chairperson Montgomery, CMS.Baker (Senior NCO of 374th Airlift Wing), and Mr.Abe (374th Public Affair) who all had attended JAAGA lecture and reception pointed that they appraised JAAGA activities high. And we confirmed each others that we would make our communication closer in the future also, then we left Yokota AB.. (Reported by secretariat Enoki)
